Qualifications
Selectee may be subject to a probationary period ESEP appointees typically serve a two year trial period U.S. Citizenship is required Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959 This is a designated position covered by Public Law 101-630, requiring contact or control over Indian children. Due to this requirement, the agency must ensure that persons hired for these positions have not been found guilty of or pleaded nolo contendere or guilty to certain crimes. IHS Selectees whose duties and responsibilities require them to work permanently, temporarily, or occasionally in an IHS healthcare facility must comply with the IHS Employee Immunization Policy related to vaccine-preventable diseases, consistent with recommendations for healthcare workers. Vaccine exemption requests may be available, as outlined in the IHS Employee Immunization Policy and facility guidance. On-call hours or standby duty may be required. Position may be subject to rotating shifts: days, evenings, nights, weekends and holidays. The selected individual is required to obtain and maintain medical staff clinical privileges, including any licensure requirements. If privileges are not obtained or maintained during employment, the employee will be subject to adverse actions, up to and including removal from Federal service. Successfully pass the E-Verify employment verification check. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, visit www.dhs.gov/E-Verify/. You will need to set up direct deposit so we can pay you. Background Investigation Requirement: This position requires the successful completion of a federal background investigation as a condition of employment. A background investigation is a standard process used by the Federal Government to verify an individual's identity, employment history, education, and other relevant information to determine suitability for Federal service. Upon receipt of instructions, applicants must complete all required background investigation forms within five (5) calendar days of issuance. Timely completion is critical to avoid delays in processing or a determination of unsuitability. Applicants are strongly encouraged to prioritize this requirement and to maintain regular communication with their assigned Personnel Security Specialist throughout the process.
Major Duties
Duty details are available on the full USAJobs announcement.
Conditions of Employment
Serve as an independent primary eye care provider, performing the full scope of professional optometric physician duties. Examine, diagnose, and treat diseases and disorders of the visual system, eyes, and associated structures. Diagnose and manage a broad range of ocular diseases, including cataracts, glaucoma, and ocular manifestations of systemic conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, thyroid disease, STDs, rheumatologic disorders). Provide comprehensive primary eye care with an emphasis on chronic, complex, and medically fragile patients, particularly the elderly. Perform comprehensive ocular examinations, including detection of neuromuscular impairments and binocular vision anomalies. Prescribe corrective lenses (including contact lenses), vision therapy, and pharmacologic treatments. Apply advanced optometric techniques to diagnose and manage unusual or complex ocular conditions. Administer authorized topical ophthalmic medications and oral pharmaceuticals. Perform minor surgical procedures, including anterior segment foreign body removal, corneal debridement, and suture removal. Deliver emergency ocular care in both outpatient and inpatient settings. Independently manage complex ocular medical conditions and coordinate consultation and co-management with ophthalmology as needed. Advise and collaborate with medical staff on ocular conditions, vision testing interpretation, and integration of eye care into comprehensive patient treatment plans. Maintain current knowledge of evidence-based practices, emerging technologies, and new biomedical devices to ensure high-quality patient care.
How to Apply
1
Create a USAJobs Account
Visit USAJobs.gov and sign up or log in.
Visit USAJobs.gov and sign up or log in.
2
Prepare Your Federal Resume
Federal resumes are more detailed than private-sector ones. Include job titles, duties, hours/week, and dates (month/year) for each position.
Federal resumes are more detailed than private-sector ones. Include job titles, duties, hours/week, and dates (month/year) for each position.
3
Gather Supporting Documents
Transcripts, DD-214 (veterans), SF-50 (current feds), and other documents as required by the announcement.
Transcripts, DD-214 (veterans), SF-50 (current feds), and other documents as required by the announcement.
4
Submit Your Application
Click "Apply on USAJobs" and complete all questionnaires before the deadline (May 4, 2026).
Click "Apply on USAJobs" and complete all questionnaires before the deadline (May 4, 2026).
5
Track Your Status
Monitor your application through your USAJobs dashboard. Federal hiring typically takes 4-8 weeks.
Monitor your application through your USAJobs dashboard. Federal hiring typically takes 4-8 weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary for the Optometrist position at Indian Health Service?
The salary range for this position is $142,986 - $185,885/yr. This is a GS position on the General Schedule pay scale. Actual pay may vary based on locality adjustments.
Where is the Optometrist job located?
This position is located in Chinle, Arizona. This is an on-site position.
What qualifications do I need?
Selectee may be subject to a probationary period ESEP appointees typically serve a two year trial period U.S. Citizenship is required Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959 This is a designated position covered by Public Law 101-630, requiring contact or control over Indian children. Due to this requirement, t...
How do I apply for this position?
Apply through USAJobs.gov by clicking the 'Apply on USAJobs' button. You'll need a USAJobs account, a federal-style resume, and supporting documents. The deadline is May 4, 2026.
Is a security clearance required?
No security clearance is required for this position.
What does GS mean?
GS refers to the General Schedule grade level. Higher grades require more experience and offer higher pay. Visit our GS Pay Scale page for full salary tables by grade and locality.
What benefits do federal employees receive?
Federal employees receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (FEHB), retirement through FERS, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching, paid annual and sick leave, paid parental leave, life insurance, and student loan repayment programs.