Advance Your Clinical Career with the Indian Health Service

Are you an experienced Occupational Therapist looking to merge your clinical expertise with a commitment to public service? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking a motivated professional to join our dedicated team at the Crow Service Unit in Crow Agency, Montana. This role is a unique opportunity to provide vital rehabilitation services to the American Indian and Alaska Native populations.

Job Responsibilities

As an Occupational Therapist at the Crow Service Unit, you will manage a wide array of clinical and administrative responsibilities, including:

Patient Care: Conducting evaluations and implementing treatment plans for both inpatient and outpatient settings.
Program Management: Overseeing occupational therapy policies, procedures, and quality assurance initiatives.
Consultation: Providing specialist clinical consultation and peer reviews at various facilities within the Crow Service Unit.
Strategic Planning: Participating in Joint Commission preparation and monthly/annual reporting to ensure the highest standards of care.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, applicants must meet specific federal and professional standards:

Education: A graduate degree from an ACOTE-accredited occupational therapy program.
Certification: Must hold a valid certification from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
Experience: At least one year of specialized experience at the equivalent of the next lower federal grade level.
Background: Successful passage of a federal background investigation and e-verify check.

Comparison Table: Qualifications and Benefits

Requirement Type	Essential Criteria
Clinical Standard	NBCOT Certification Required
Education	Graduate degree (ACOTE)
Experience	1+ year specialized
Employment Type	Permanent/Federal

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary range of $74,678 to $97,087 annually, based on experience and qualifications. Beyond base pay, employees enjoy comprehensive federal benefits, including:

Competitive health insurance and retirement plans.
Accrual of annual and sick leave.
Opportunities for student loan repayment through competitive programs.
Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.

Application Tips

Applying for a federal position requires meticulous attention to detail. Ensure your resume highlights your specific duties and hours per week. Always double-check that your transcripts are attached, and ensure your contact information is correct. If you are claiming Veterans' Preference or Indian Preference, ensure all supporting documentation is submitted with your initial application.

Becoming an Occupational Therapist with the Indian Health Service in Montana is a rewarding path that allows you to provide high-impact care. If you are ready to contribute your skills to an organization that puts community health first, we encourage you to apply.

Why This Occupational Therapist Job Matters

Elevate your clinical career while making a tangible impact on the lives of American Indian and Alaska Native communities in the beautiful landscape of Montana.

Occupational Therapist Job Overview

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a dedicated Occupational Therapist for the Crow Service Unit in Crow Agency, Montana. This role offers the opportunity to provide essential inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services, fostering improved health outcomes for patients across the Crow Service Unit, including clinics in Lodge Grass and Pryor.

Requirements for Occupational Therapist

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must possess a graduate or higher-level degree in Occupational Therapy from an ACOTE-approved program.
Completion of clinical requirements prescribed by the educational institution.
Current certification by the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
Minimum of one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
Successful completion of a federal background investigation.
Compliance with agency immunization policies.
Ability to obtain and maintain medical staff clinical privileges.

Preferred Qualifications for Occupational Therapist

Experience in program planning and quality assurance within a clinical setting.
Demonstrated ability to perform inpatient and outpatient evaluations.
Skills in creating customized rehabilitation treatment plans.
Experience with job site evaluations and performance skills assessment.
Ability to work effectively within an interdisciplinary healthcare team.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal Salary
✓Comprehensive health insurance options
✓Annual and sick leave accrual
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
✓Participation in the Federal student loan repayment program (competitive basis)
✓Professional development opportunities

💡 How to Apply Occupational Therapist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Occupational Therapist Job

Create or update your USAJOBS profile.
Complete the online application and required questionnaires.
Submit your resume, transcripts, and proof of certification.
Complete the required USA Hire Assessments within the designated window.
Monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly identifies hours worked per week for each position.
Attach all required documents, including transcripts and certification, before the closing date.
Set aside at least two hours to complete the USA Hire assessment.
Keep your contact information updated to receive status alerts.
Prioritize the timely submission of background investigation forms if contacted.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary work location for this role?

The primary location is the Crow/Northern Cheyenne Hospital in Crow Agency, Montana, with potential travel to clinics in Lodge Grass and Pryor.

Is this position eligible for loan repayment?

Yes, the IHS has a competitive student loan repayment program for qualifying disciplines, subject to funding and agency priorities.

Is the USA Hire Assessment mandatory?

Yes, failure to complete the assessment within the specified timeframe will result in ineligibility for the position.

What is the significance of the REAL ID requirement?

As of May 2025, a REAL ID-compliant form of identification is required for access to federal facilities, including the Crow/Northern Cheyenne Hospital.

Can I update my application after submission?

Yes, you may update your application until the announcement closes on November 9, 2026.

Job from Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service is a nationwide organization comprised of health care professionals who are passionate about addressing the unique needs of indigenous communities. 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 collaborative environment that values innovation, compassion, and community-focused problem solving.