Become an Administrative Officer with the Indian Health Service

Are you looking for a career that combines high-level administrative leadership with a mission to serve? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is currently seeking a motivated Administrative Officer to join our team in Inscription House, Arizona. This position is a rare opportunity to influence the operational backbone of healthcare services for American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

Job Responsibilities

As an Administrative Officer, you will wear many hats. Your core duties include:

Operations Management: Providing oversight for departmental operations, managing staffing, and championing employee engagement.
Strategic Support: Partnering with senior leadership to develop policies, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and strategic action plans.
Fiscal & Compliance Oversight: Managing budgets, contracts, property management, and ensuring all services meet federal compliance standards.
Process Improvement: Utilizing performance data and best practices to optimize efficiency and effectiveness across the facility.

Qualifications Comparison

Feature	Requirement Detail
Experience	1 year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level (or equivalent)
Education	Ph.D. or 3 years of graduate study allowed as a substitute for experience
Citizenship	U.S. Citizenship Required
Security	High-risk background investigation and financial suitability check required

Salary and Benefits

This position offers a competitive federal salary ranging from $74,678 to $97,087 annually. In addition to salary, employees receive:

Full health and life insurance options.
Competitive retirement packages including FERS and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
Generous paid time off, including federal holidays, annual leave, and sick leave.

Application Tips

Tailor Your Resume: Explicitly state the number of hours worked per week for every position listed.
Documentation is Key: Have your SF-50 (if a current/former federal employee), transcripts, and any preference documents (Veteran/Indian Preference) ready before you apply.
Meet the Assessment Deadline: Following your application submission, you will receive a link to the USA Hire assessments. Do not skip this; failing to complete the assessment will disqualify you.

If you possess the leadership skills and dedication necessary to support the health and well-being of Native communities, we encourage you to apply. This role offers not just a paycheck, but the opportunity to contribute to a legacy of service and professional growth within the federal healthcare landscape.

Why This Administrative Officer Job Matters

Join the Indian Health Service and drive meaningful change by leading essential administrative operations that support culturally responsive care for American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

Administrative Officer Job Overview

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a dedicated Administrative Officer in Inscription House, Arizona. This pivotal role involves managing complex departmental operations, overseeing compliance, and facilitating strategic planning to ensure the delivery of high-quality healthcare services. You will work within an interdisciplinary team dedicated to improving health outcomes, requiring a blend of leadership, analytical precision, and administrative expertise.

Requirements for Administrative Officer

U.S. Citizenship is strictly required.
Must be able to successfully complete a federal background investigation.
Must maintain financial responsibility and clear of delinquent federal or state obligations.
Must register with the Selective Service (if male born after 12/31/1959).
Must pass the E-Verify employment verification check.
Must possess a valid, REAL ID-compliant form of identification.
One year of specialized experience at the GS-09 level (or equivalent) in the private or public sector.
Demonstrated ability to manage administrative functions, analyze projects, and support leadership with reporting and data.
Completion of a supervisory/managerial probationary period may be required.

Preferred Qualifications for Administrative Officer

Advanced graduate education (Ph.D. or 3 years of graduate-level study).
Proven experience in federal budget management and property control.
Experience implementing Just Culture principles and EEO practices.
Strong interpersonal skills to liaison effectively between departments.
Demonstrated ability to lead strategic planning and process improvements.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
✓Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
✓Access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), a 401(k)-style retirement savings plan.
✓Paid federal holidays and accrued annual and sick leave.
✓Opportunities for professional development and training within the IHS.

💡 How to Apply Administrative Officer Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Administrative Officer Job

Review the full vacancy announcement details carefully.
Create or update your USAJOBS profile and resume.
Prepare your supporting documents (transcripts, SF-50, veteran documentation, or Indian Preference forms).
Click the Apply Online button and complete all mandatory questionnaires.
Submit your application through the portal by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date.
Check your email for instructions regarding the USA Hire Assessment; completion is mandatory for consideration.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly details the total number of hours worked per week for each position.
Attach your unofficial transcripts early to avoid delays in eligibility determination.
If claiming Indian Preference, submit form BIA-4432 properly signed by your Tribal Representative.
Set aside at least two hours to complete the required USA Hire assessment in a quiet environment.
Monitor your application status regularly via your USAJOBS account dashboard.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary mission of the Administrative Officer at the IHS?

The officer is responsible for leading departmental operations, improving organizational efficiency, managing budgets, and providing technical support to leadership to ensure high-quality patient care.

Is this position eligible for remote work?

No, this position is based in Inscription House, Arizona, and requires on-site presence.

Do I need to submit official transcripts immediately?

While unofficial transcripts are accepted during the application phase, official transcripts will be required from the selected candidate prior to the final offer.

Job from Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service (IHS), an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is responsible for providing federal health services to approximately 2.5 million American Indians and Alaska Natives. Our employees are known for their creativity, compassion, and commitment to problem-solving in a fast-paced environment. By joining our team, you become part of an interdisciplinary network focused on health equity and clinical excellence.