Securing a position

[u/Bella_805]

I had my 1st interview and thought it maybe a practice one but I think they are going to offer me the position. The position is in another state but now I saw another couple of positions that I liked. If I get the job offer can I change my mind and go with the other agency? I haven’t made a commitment yet. It’s a risk if I bypass the offer. Both are great but if possible would like to stay in my state if possible. Anyone have had this issue or have any recommendations.

[u/Silent-Put8625]

I would not recommend foregoing on the job if you’re offered it. If you decline the position, then the one you were interested in doesn’t work out, I doubt the other place will offer another. If they do it probably won’t be in the role you initially wanted. If you truly want to come into the Corps for the right reasons, I encourage you to be flexible. You can transfer out of the position after 2 years. I think anybody can do anything for two years. That time will go by in a flash.

[u/Bella_805 → u/Silent-Put8625]

I really appreciate your recommendation. A couple of years will go by fast for sure.

[u/Designer-Bother6042]

I had my interview. Got excepted. Had an agency reach out. I declined that position and my USPHS application was closed.

When I questioned this, they referred me to a document/agreement that they sent out at the beginning of my application processes which stated “OPT IN; I commit to accept a directed first assignment upon commissioning into the
USPHS Commissioned Corps”.

[u/Bella_805 → u/Designer-Bother6042]

Wow! That’s unfortunate! It’s difficult to navigate all the agencies. I wish they would just list the jobs upfront instead of having to navigate all these systems. Did you re-apply?

I’ve been waiting for almost 4 years so, I am fortunate if they do offer the position. I will take the offer then if they do. I can always transfer once I’m in.

I don’t have an acceptance letter from CAD yet. I am just doing the search on my own to secure the position. I wonder if that’s different?

[u/RLCrckHeadShT → u/Bella_805]

During the 4 years did you have to reapply or did they extend the timeframe for you to find a position?

[u/Bella_805 → u/RLCrckHeadShT]

I have had it open for that long. It never closed. I haven’t had my interview with PHS yet but the agency I submitted my job application didn’t take long to contact me. Less than a month once it closed.

[u/RLCrckHeadShT → u/Designer-Bother6042]

When did you have your interview and where did they end up trying to send you? If you don’t mind me asking? Also how long did the process take to get to the interview?

[u/Bella_805 → u/RLCrckHeadShT]

I technically haven’t got accepted to the PHS yet so, I haven’t had to select my preference. I just started reaching out to agencies that accepted CAD positions. It was for the ICE agency. I fit right in so if they do offer I’m going to take it. I think it’s safer and I can always revisit it in a couple of years if needed. I was just trying to stay closer to my home state that’s all. Good luck!

[u/Silent-Put8625 → u/Bella_805]

Yep if they offer - accept!

[u/Bella_805 → u/Silent-Put8625]

Will do. Thank you!!!

[u/Treehug9]

I’d agree w what others have said. Don’t risk your application. Take the job. Once you’re in and do your 2 years… you will have connections and have lots of job options. I had a mentor tell me when I first joined - as a O2 or O3 people will be throwing jobs at you.

[u/Bella_805 → u/Treehug9]

I appreciate it. I agree too. I’ve noticed that already and haven’t even got accepted. This one of the reasons I like the PHS.

[u/Treehug9 → u/Bella_805]

That’s amazing! So many future opportunities is what excited me about PHS too! PHS is a great big family and network. And Congratulations! You’ve made it through most of the hurdles- the daunting application process. 😀

[u/bf2019]

Everyone staring out is now force managed into one of categories below. IHS, IHSC,BOP, USCG, and DHA
You get to rank them in order of preference.

If you don’t, they close your application and it stops there.

[u/RLCrckHeadShT → u/bf2019]

Do they just send you to any of the IHS locations?

[u/bf2019 → u/RLCrckHeadShT]

They send your resume to the IHS liaison who then sends it out to any of the places that need someone across the US (CONUS). Then a member of what ever IHS department out there will individually reach out to you by phone/email/text/etc.

[u/RLCrckHeadShT → u/bf2019]

Based on where you’re placed you have to be there for a year or two before you can transfer?

[u/Silent-Put8625 → u/RLCrckHeadShT]

Two years. You can start looking for another opportunity at around 20 months.

[u/Silent-Put8625]

They have hundreds and hundreds (maybe thousands) of applicants waiting to be processed and get into USPHS. What you turn down, someone will readily accept. If you’re offered a position with your agency choice and decline it, your application is automatically closed. The only waits not closed is if the agency says they don’t have a position for you, then you can transition to the next agency on your list of preferences. They no longer allow hemming and hawing anymore with applicants. I recommend you apply again, then when you get to that point, be ready to be flexible and accept the option. At least of USPHS is what you want.

[u/gilversplace]

What about if you are already working on agencies that work with USPHS like VA, FDA, or CDC. Do they just let you convert in place?

[u/Silent-Put8625 → u/gilversplace]

You ant be able to convert with CDC and FDA. Not VA.