Secure Our Mission: Join the Indian Health Service as a Security Guard
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is committed to providing top-tier healthcare to American Indian and Alaska Native populations. Behind every doctor and nurse is a team ensuring the safety of our facilities. We are currently looking for motivated, vigilant, and professional Security Guards to join our team in Red Mesa, AZ, as well as Bloomfield and Shiprock, NM. This is an essential role for those looking to start or advance a career in federal protective services.
Job Responsibilities
As a Security Guard, you will perform duties critical to the daily operation of our health centers. Key responsibilities include:
- Patroling buildings and grounds to safeguard patients, staff, and visitors.
- Enforcing facility parking regulations.
- Monitoring entry points, doors, and window locks to detect tampering.
- Maintaining a daily log of activities and reporting unusual circumstances.
- Supporting overall public safety efforts.
Comparison: Security Guard Qualifications
| Requirement Type | Criteria |
|---|---|
| General Experience | 6 months of clerical, administrative, or public contact experience |
| Specialized Experience | 6 months of work with a protective organization (e.g., guarding property) |
| Education Alternative | 2 years of post-high school education |
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet the minimum experience requirements outlined above. Additionally, you must be prepared for:
- A thorough federal background check.
- Adherence to the IHS Immunization Policy.
- Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
- A commitment to financial responsibility and good standing.
Salary Overview
This position offers a salary range of $37,193 to $47,334 per year, commensurate with your qualifications and the GS-4 level standards.
Benefits
IHS employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Paid vacation and sick leave accrual.
- Federal retirement savings plans.
- Opportunities for specialized training and career development.
- Potential student loan repayment for eligible disciplines.
Application Tips
Submit a clear, detailed resume that highlights your experience in public safety or customer service. Ensure you have your DD214 or BIA-4432 forms ready if claiming preference. Above all, be responsive once you receive your background investigation packet.
Serving as a Security Guard with the IHS is more than a job—it is a commitment to a noble mission. If you are ready to protect the health and safety of our nation's most vulnerable populations, we encourage you to apply before the November 13, 2026, deadline.
Why This Security Guard Job Matters
Protect our frontline healthcare heroes and the communities they serve with the Indian Health Service.
Security Guard Job Overview
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking dedicated individuals to join our team as Security Guards. In this critical role, you will be the first line of defense for our healthcare facilities, ensuring a safe environment for patients, staff, and visitors. This position is vital for maintaining the integrity of federal property and supporting our mission to improve the health outcomes of American Indians and Alaska Natives nationwide.
Requirements for Security Guard
- U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Must be 18+ and possess a valid state driver's license.
- Must pass a comprehensive federal background investigation.
- Selective Service registration required for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Must maintain an active bank account for electronic direct deposit.
- Must comply with IHS Employee Immunization Policy requirements.
- Must demonstrate financial responsibility and good standing with creditors.
Preferred Qualifications for Security Guard
- Prior experience in protective services or law enforcement.
- Military service or Coast Guard background involving guard duties.
- Experience in psychiatric nursing assistance or similar roles requiring patient safeguarding.
- Successful completion of relevant vocational training in security systems.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and step increases
- ✓Annual leave and sick leave accrual
- ✓Federal health insurance options
- ✓Retirement planning through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Opportunities for federal loan repayment programs (eligibility dependent)
- ✓Potential for credit for previous non-federal experience toward leave accrual
💡 How to Apply Security Guard Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Security Guard Job
- Create or sign in to your Login.gov account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Review your resume to ensure it reflects your hours worked per week and relevant duties.
- Complete the online eligibility questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including DD214 (if claiming veteran's preference) or BIA-4432 (if claiming Indian preference).
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of November 13, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Prioritize the background investigation forms; these must be returned within 5 calendar days of issuance.
- Ensure all uploaded documents are legible and clearly labeled.
- Double-check your resume for specific examples of your protective experience.
- Use the USAJOBS Help Center to verify that your resume meets current federal formatting requirements.
- Sign up for text alerts in your account settings to stay informed about your application status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a background check required?
Yes, all selectees must successfully complete a federal background investigation as a condition of employment.
Can I apply if I am not a veteran?
Yes, though competition may be restricted by law for certain positions. Please refer to the specific hiring path eligibility criteria listed in the announcement.
Are there medical requirements?
Yes, you must comply with the IHS Employee Immunization Policy regarding vaccine-preventable diseases as part of the hiring process.
Job from Indian Health Service
The Indian Health Service is an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. Our mission is to raise the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives to the highest level. We operate in a fast-paced, community-oriented environment where employees are focused on solving complex challenges through interdisciplinary teamwork.