Become a Supervisory Optometrist with the Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is looking for a talented and motivated Supervisory Optometrist to join our healthcare team. This is a unique opportunity for licensed optometric professionals to step into a leadership role that directly shapes patient outcomes for American Indian and Alaska Native communities. If you are passionate about clinical excellence, team leadership, and public health service, this role offers the perfect platform to advance your career.

Job Responsibilities

As a Supervisory Optometrist, your duties extend beyond patient care to include administrative leadership. Key responsibilities include:

Direct Patient Care: Conducting exams, diagnosing ocular conditions, and managing visual impairments.
Clinical Supervision: Leading a team of optometrists and health technicians, including managing performance evaluations and recruitment.
Operational Leadership: Reviewing and revising departmental policies, managing budgets, and implementing quality assurance activities.
Emergency Services: Providing essential ophthalmic care and coordinating complex cases with other medical specialists.

Requirements

To qualify for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Hold a Doctor of Optometry degree from an ACOE-accredited program.
Possess a current, full, and unrestricted optometry license in a U.S. State or territory.
Have at least one year of specialized experience at the GS-12 equivalent level.
Successfully pass a federal background investigation and financial suitability review.

Feature	Details
Salary Range	$170,030 – $221,041 per year
Job Series	0662 (Optometrist)
Grade	GS-13
Locations	Multiple (AZ, NM, ND, SD)

Benefits

Joining the federal government comes with a robust benefits package. Beyond competitive pay, IHS employees may qualify for student loan repayment, comprehensive health coverage, and potential relocation incentives. You will also earn annual leave based on your total federal service time.

Application Tips

Ensure your resume uses the USAJOBS Resume Builder for maximum clarity. Highlight your leadership and management achievements, as these are critical for the supervisory aspect of this role. Double-check that all required supporting documents, including transcripts and licensing verification, are uploaded and legible.

The role of Supervisory Optometrist at the Indian Health Service is more than just a job; it is a chance to provide vital services to underserved communities while growing your career in a supportive, professional environment. If you meet the qualifications, we encourage you to apply today.

Why This Supervisory Optometrist Job Matters

Shape the future of ocular health for Native American communities while serving in a leadership role at the Indian Health Service.

Supervisory Optometrist Job Overview

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a dedicated Supervisory Optometrist to lead clinical operations and provide high-quality eye care across various nationwide locations. This role is pivotal in managing patient care, supervising optometry staff, and ensuring excellence in health outcomes for American Indian and Alaska Native populations. You will oversee budget management, policy development, and direct patient diagnostics and treatment, making a profound impact on the communities we serve.

Requirements for Supervisory Optometrist

U.S. Citizenship
Doctor of Optometry degree from an ACOE-accredited program
Passing score on the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) exams
Current, full, and unrestricted license to practice optometry in a U.S. State, D.C., Puerto Rico, or territory
Minimum one year of specialized experience equivalent to GS-12 level
Must be able to maintain medical staff clinical privileges
Must pass a federal background investigation and financial suitability review
Must comply with the IHS Employee Immunization Policy

Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Optometrist

Demonstrated experience in clinical staff supervision and performance management
Proven expertise in quality assurance and policy development within an optometric department
History of successful budgetary oversight and resource allocation
Experience in coordinating emergency ophthalmic care and interdisciplinary medical referrals
Strong background in community-based screening programs, including school and diabetic retinopathy initiatives

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary and annual leave accrual
✓Eligibility for student loan repayment programs (IHS, NHSC, and HRSA)
✓Comprehensive federal health and retirement benefits
✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives
✓Opportunities for professional growth within a nationwide interdisciplinary healthcare system

💡 How to Apply Supervisory Optometrist Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Supervisory Optometrist Job

Create or update your USAJOBS account and resume.
Carefully review the full job announcement and requirements.
Gather your education transcripts, license documentation, and any relevant preference forms (e.g., DD214, BIA-4432).
Click 'Apply Online' and follow the prompts to upload all required supporting documents.
Complete the online eligibility questionnaire.
Submit your application and ensure you receive a confirmation notice before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Use the USAJOBS Resume Builder to ensure your experience, hours per week, and salary details are clearly documented.
Clearly list your optometry license, including expiration dates.
Submit unofficial transcripts early to streamline the review process.
Prepare concise examples of your leadership and technical competencies for the potential structured interview phase.
Verify that your uploaded documents are legible and include all required contact information for previous supervisors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the educational requirement for this position?

You must hold a Doctor of Optometry degree from a program accredited by the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE).

Is this position eligible for loan repayment?

Yes, there are competitive student loan repayment programs offered through IHS, NHSC, and HRSA, subject to agency funding and priorities.

What locations are available?

This position is available at multiple locations including sites in Arizona, New Mexico, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

What is the background investigation process?

Candidates must pass a federal background investigation to verify identity and suitability. Completion of required forms within 5 days of issuance is essential.

Is Indian preference available?

Yes, qualified Indian preference candidates must submit form BIA-4432 with their application to be considered.

Job from Indian Health Service

The Indian Health Service, an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services, is committed to raising the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives to the highest level. We operate as a nationwide, interdisciplinary team that values creativity, problem-solving, and a compassionate approach to patient care.