Pursuing a Career as an Occupational Therapist with the Indian Health Service

Are you an Occupational Therapist looking to make a meaningful difference? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking a passionate clinical professional to join the Rehabilitation Department in Chinle, Arizona. This role provides a unique environment where your expertise directly supports the health and wellness of American Indian and Alaska Native populations.

Job Responsibilities

As an Occupational Therapist at the Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Facility, your daily duties will be both challenging and rewarding. You will perform the following:

Patient Evaluation: Providing direct clinical care for inpatient and outpatient populations of all ages.
Individualized Treatment: Developing and implementing custom care plans tailored to physical, cognitive, and functional rehabilitation.
Specialized Clinical Support: Engaging in orthosis fabrication, hand therapy, and ergonomic assessment.
Collaboration: Working within an interdisciplinary team to ensure holistic patient recovery.
Quality and Safety: Participating in clinical operations, quality improvement programs, and staff education.

Comparison: Role Expectations

Feature	GS-11 Grade Level	GS-12 Grade Level
Scope of Practice	Establishing foundational OT programs	Leading clinical evaluations & re-evaluations
Clinical Focus	Implementation of existing protocols	Advanced diagnostic & evidence-based planning
Documentation	Routine reporting of patient progress	Detailed analysis of patient dysfunction

Requirements

You must meet all qualification requirements by the closing date of December 14, 2026. Key prerequisites include:

A graduate degree from an ACOTE-accredited institution.
Current certification from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT).
Proof of specialized experience in an OT capacity.
Successful completion of a federal background check and financial suitability review.

Salary Overview

The position offers a competitive salary range of $74,678 to $116,362 per year, depending on the grade level and qualifying experience. This compensation structure is designed to attract top-tier talent committed to federal service.

Benefits of Federal Employment

Choosing a career with the IHS provides significant advantages, including:

Leave Accrual: Annual and sick leave starting at competitive rates.
Incentives: Potential for recruitment or relocation bonuses for eligible applicants.
Student Loan Repayment: Access to competitive programs like the NHSC or IHS loan repayment initiatives.
Insurance: A robust suite of federal health and life insurance options.

Application Tips

To maximize your chances, review your resume to ensure it clearly highlights your specific occupational therapy achievements. Be prepared to provide transcripts early in the process and ensure your contact information is up to date.

If you are ready to combine your passion for rehabilitation with a commitment to service, the IHS in Chinle, Arizona, is the place for you. Start your application on USAJobs and take the next step toward a fulfilling and impactful career.

Why This Occupational Therapist Job Matters

Make a meaningful impact on patient health in the heart of the Navajo Nation while advancing your clinical career as an Occupational Therapist with the Indian Health Service.

Occupational Therapist Job Overview

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a dedicated Occupational Therapist to join the Rehabilitation Department at the Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Facility in Chinle, Arizona. In this vital role, you will provide comprehensive evaluation, treatment, and consultation services to patients of all ages, addressing complex physical, cognitive, and functional needs. This position offers a unique opportunity to work within a supportive interdisciplinary team, contributing to specialized areas such as hand therapy, ergonomics, and pain management, while actively shaping clinical programs and quality improvement initiatives.

Requirements for Occupational Therapist

U.S. Citizenship is required.
Must have a graduate degree (or higher) from an accredited Occupational Therapy program.
Completion of all clinical training requirements.
Must hold a current national certification from the National Board for Certification in Occupational Therapy.
At least one year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level.
Must pass a federal background investigation and financial suitability review.
Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Must be compliant with Public Law 101-630 regarding contact with Indian children.

Preferred Qualifications for Occupational Therapist

Demonstrated experience in inpatient and outpatient program planning.
Expertise in orthosis fabrication and adaptive equipment recommendations.
Experience with ergonomic assessments and chronic pain management strategies.
Proficiency in clinical documentation and interdisciplinary team coordination.
Commitment to quality improvement and evidence-based practice.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive Federal salary with potential for annual increases.
✓Annual leave accrual based on total years of federal service.
✓Credit for non-federal experience or military service toward leave accrual.
✓Potential eligibility for Indian Health Service and National Health Service Corps student loan repayment programs.
✓Comprehensive federal insurance and health benefits.
✓Recruitment or relocation incentives may be available for qualified candidates.

💡 How to Apply Occupational Therapist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Occupational Therapist Job

Review the full job announcement carefully on USAJobs.
Click the 'Apply Online' button and log in to your account.
Complete all required questionnaires and application forms.
Upload your resume, transcripts, and any necessary supporting documentation (e.g., DD214, licensure).
Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM ET deadline on December 14, 2026.
Monitor your account for notifications regarding USA Hire assessments and complete them within the specified window.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly lists the duties performed and hours worked per week for each role to verify specialized experience.
Submit unofficial transcripts early to ensure they meet all requirements, but be prepared to provide official copies upon selection.
Prioritize your background investigation forms; timely submission is critical to avoiding delays.
Tailor your responses to the evaluation questions to reflect your specific clinical expertise and professional ethics.
Verify that all uploaded documents are legible and accurate before final submission.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a remote or telework position?

No, this position is onsite at the Chinle Comprehensive Health Care Facility and is not eligible for telework.

What is the promotion potential for this role?

The position has promotion potential up to the GS-12 level, contingent upon performance, management approval, and the continued need for higher-level duties.

Are there student loan repayment opportunities?

Yes, through the Indian Health Service and National Health Service Corps, depending on agency hiring priorities and fund availability.

Job from Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is a premier agency within the Department of Health and Human Services. With a mission to raise the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives, the IHS employs a diverse team of dedicated providers. Working in Chinle, you will become part of an adventurous, community-oriented, and interdisciplinary team that prioritizes compassionate, patient-centered care.