Hygienist

Hygienist

Join our team at the Tuolumne Me-Wuk Indian Health Center, where we offer more than just a job — we provide a community-focused environment with competitive salaries, exceptional benefits, and a true work-life balance.

Our comprehensive benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, and a 401(k) plan, ensuring you and your family are well cared for. Plus, take advantage of Indian Health Service Loan Forgiveness opportunities to advance your career while reducing your student debt.

Located in the heart of California's Sierra Nevada foothills, our location offers not just a fulfilling career but the chance to explore a region full of stunning landscapes and outdoor recreation. Spend your days helping others grow professionally and your evenings and weekends hiking through serene mountain trails, kayaking on pristine lakes, or enjoying the charm of historic Downtown Sonora. With its vibrant culture, unique shops, and year-round festivals, you'll find endless ways to connect and thrive.

Whether you're seeking professional growth or outdoor excitement, Tuolumne County is the perfect place to build your future. Apply today and start your next adventure with us!

POSITION OVERVIEW:

Title: Hygienist

Reports To: Dental Director

Schedule: M-F; 4 - 10-hour shifts

Status: Non-Exempt

Summary: The Dental Hygienist provides preventive dental care and oral health education to Tribal members and eligible patients at TMWIHC. Reporting to the Dental Director, this position delivers high-quality, patient-centered hygiene services in a culturally sensitive environment and collaborates with the dental team to promote optimal oral health outcomes.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Perform comprehensive oral health assessments including periodontal charting, medical and dental history review, and oral cancer screenings.
• Provide prophylaxis, scaling and root planing, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants.
• Expose, develop, and interpret dental radiographs in accordance with prescribed protocols.
• Educate patients on oral hygiene techniques, preventive care, and the relationship between oral and systemic health.
• Document all patient care accurately and completely in the electronic dental record.
• Collaborate with dentists and dental assistants to ensure coordinated and efficient patient care.
• Maintain infection control standards and comply with OSHA and HIPAA requirements.
• Participate in community outreach, school-based dental programs, and health fairs as assigned.
• Maintain and sterilize instruments and equipment in accordance with established protocols.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Education and Experience:

Associate's degree or higher in dental hygiene from an accredited dental hygiene program required. Current, unrestricted California Registered Dental Hygienist (RDH) license required.

Preferred Qualifications:

Local anesthesia permit preferred. Experience in a community health, FQHC, IHS, or tribal dental setting. Two (2) or more years working with Native American populations in a healthcare setting.

Requirements:

Current CPR/BLS certification. Valid California Driver's License. Must comply with all credentialing and background screening requirements.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This position requires walking, standing, and sitting for prolonged periods; climbing stairs and step-stools; stooping, kneeling, crouching, balancing, and reaching; pushing, pulling, and lifting up to 30 pounds; and raising objects overhead. The role also requires manual dexterity for operating computers and phones, as well as hearing, talking, and strong verbal and written communication skills. Repetitive motions of the wrists, hands, and fingers are involved. The employee may be subject to outdoor environmental conditions such as heat and cold, and will be required to walk on uneven ground. The position also requires the ability to safely operate and drive a motor vehicle.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY AND INDIAN PREFERENCE:

Tuolumne Me-Wuk Indian Health Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to providing a diverse and inclusive workplace.

In accordance with the Indian Preference Act (25 U.S.C. §§ 472 & 473) and Public Law 93-638, qualified Native American and Alaskan Native applicants will be given preference, provided appropriate documentation is submitted. In-house postings also include Tribal Voting Members.

All positions require cultural sensitivity and the ability to interact respectfully and effectively with diverse tribal communities.

Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment TB test, background check, and drug screening.