Certified Nurse Midwife

Summary

At the Indian Health Service (IHS), Certified Nurse Midwives practice medicine and change lives by delivering compassionate care where it is needed most, guided by our mission to raise the health of American Indian and Alaska Native people.

• Conduct comprehensive patient assessments, including medical histories, physical exams, and diagnostic testing.
• Identify and diagnose acute, chronic, and complex health conditions.
• Develop individualized care plans that address patient needs, including treatment goals and expected outcomes.
• Prescribe medications, therapies, and medical devices.

Basic qualifications for all grade levels:

• Pass the National Council Licensure Examination.
• Hold a current, active, full, and unrestricted license or registration as a professional nurse from a U.S. state, the District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, or a U.S. territory.
• Complete an accredited nursing education program with a degree (associate, bachelor's, or higher) from an institution recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
• Obtain national background investigation clearance.
• Be U.S. citizen; males born after 12/31/1959 must register with Selective Service.

Advanced Practice Nurse (APN) positions additionally require:

• A graduate or higher-level degree in nursing from an accredited program in the specialty area (e.g., Midwifery).
• Licensure or registration in the clinical specialty required by the position.
• At least one full year of professional nursing experience for GS‑11 level or more for higher grades.

Applicants must demonstrate the following to qualify for GS‑11 or higher:

• Successful completion of a PhD or equivalent doctoral degree from a professional nursing education program or related science field; OR
• At least one full year of professional nursing experience (equivalent to GS‑9) and possession of a relevant degree.

For GS‑12 and above, applicants must also have:

• At least one full year of professional advanced practice nursing experience equivalent to the GS‑12 grade level.
• Ability to perform complete history and physical examination, prescribe medications appropriately, and independently manage normal spontaneous labor and vaginal delivery, with knowledge of advanced neonatal life support as applicable.

• Successful completion of background investigation and E‑Verify employment verification check.
• Maintenance of medical staff clinical privileges, including licensure requirements.
• Adherence to IHS health policies (including vaccination requirements) and financial suitability requirements.
• Real  for state-issued  driver's license if required.
• Eligible for a one‑year service agreement and recruitment or relocation incentives subject to agency discretion.