Dental Assistant

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Temporary
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Compensation

Type:
Salary
Rate:
Exact $37,713.00
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Work Schedule

Standard Hours
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement Plan
Federal employee benefits
Training and development programs
Cultural environment

Job Description

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is a federal agency committed to improving the health and well-being of American Indian and Alaska Native communities. As part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, IHS provides comprehensive health care services, including dental care, to eligible individuals across numerous locations. The agency prioritizes culturally competent, quality dental care to help enhance the oral health outcomes of these underserved populations. IHS's dental program aims to reduce oral health disparities by offering extensive dental prevention, treatment, and education services tailored to the unique needs of the communities it serves. The agency’s commitment to... Show More

Job Requirements

  • At least 3 months of general experience or familiarity with customer service, record-keeping, and clinic maintenance for GS-02 level
  • At least 6 months of general experience or completion of relevant dental assistant or dental hygiene program for GS-03 level
  • Combination of experience and education acceptable for qualification
  • 6 months of specialized dental assisting experience for GS-04 level
  • Successful completion of a 2-year dental assistant or dental hygiene program for GS-04 level
  • Current IHS or State dental radiological health and safety certification for GS-3 and GS-4
  • Meeting all qualification requirements within 30 days of the closing date
  • Submission of transcripts if using education to qualify
  • Compliance with time-in-grade requirements for federal employees in competitive service
  • Experience includes paid, unpaid, volunteer work and National Service programs
  • Dental radiological certification is federally mandated for certain levels

Job Qualifications

  • High school graduate or equivalent
  • Completion of a 1-year dental assistant program or 1 year of dental hygiene program accredited by the American Dental Association
  • Practical nurse training approved by a recognized accrediting body
  • Experience providing chairside dental assistance
  • Familiarity with digital oral x-ray exposure and processing
  • Strong customer service and record-keeping skills
  • Current dental radiological health and safety certification or proof of meeting federal credentialing standards

Job Duties

  • Provide chairside assistance during dental procedures
  • Set up proper instruments and materials for dental treatments
  • Record treatments rendered and maintain accurate patient records
  • Perform receptionist duties including patient scheduling and communication
  • Expose and process digital oral x-rays in compliance with safety standards
  • Maintain clinic cleanliness and ensure sterilization of dental instruments
  • Assist in radiological procedures following established certification requirements

Job Qualifications

Experience

Entry Level (1-2 years)

Job Location