Registered Dental Assistant

Since 1897, the Ostrow School of Dentistry has shaped talented students into outstanding dentists and dental hygienists. Our challenging clinical education and our expert faculty members provide future oral health professionals with the skills they need in order to become the best. We, at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, are all committed to maintaining an environment of excellence and eminence, and this commitment shines through in all that we do. Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) This person provides both administrative and comprehensive skilled chair-side assisting services for patients during dental treatment procedures for clinical faculty, doctoral dental students, and post-doctoral students in clinical units(s) and/or affiliated practices. Works independently with minimal technical guidance. May lead other dental assistants. Job Accountabilities Prepares treatment/clinical areas for patient care. Organizes and prepares trays for dental procedures, readies and mixes materials, and maintains adequate inventories in each operatory. Preps patients and assists dentists with procedures. Obtains vital signs and monitors patients for complications. Cleans up following procedures, disposes of waste, disinfects area after each patient, and sets up for next patient in accordance with established procedures. Maintains inventory of disposable materials, medications, dental instruments, equipment, and supplies in the dental operatory and those required for daily operation. Organizes supplies and equipment to minimize loss and maximize utilization. Performs regular audits to ensure the removal of expired materials. Maintains a clean and orderly clinic. Sterilizes and disinfects instruments and equipment in accordance with established procedures. Prepares materials for making impressions and restorations, as needed. Exposes and processes digital radiography or traditional x-rays. Practices radiation safety at all times when using dental radiographs generators. Assists Residents with explaining treatment instructions and treatment plans to patients and parents of Spanish speaking families. Provides administrative support (e.g., schedule, attendance records) and problem resolution as required. Assists with patient registration, appointment scheduling, scanning, and other related administrative support duties as required. Obtains dental history, records from patients, and ensures health histories are recorded and current. Provides patient education and treatment planning information as directed by attending faculty providers, or by students. Promotes an environment that fosters inclusive relationships and creates unbiased opportunities for contributions through ideas, words, and actions that uphold principles of the USC Code of Ethics. What makes you stand out? Demonstrated excellent bilingual skills in English and Spanish (written and verbal) Demonstrated collaborative work style. Previous work experience in specialty clinics (Endodontics, Prosthodontics, Periodontics) Requirements Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) license (graduate of dental assisting program) at least one year of chairside experience in a dental environment or private practice. Working knowledge of AxiUm dental management systems, or similar. Proficiency in written and conversational Spanish, and/or multilingual communication skills. Demonstrated experience and skills in a variety of dental disciplines. Skilled at clinical documentation, gathering and inputting data, maintaining filing systems and logs, and coordinating the work. Benefits We pride ourselves in creating the BEST USC EXPERIENCE, and that begins with our employees! We offer a wide variety of benefits and programs that support our staff and their families including. For more information please visit This support advocates work-life balance and employee well-being. As members of the Trojan family, employees are connected by the traditions and history that make us proud to be Trojans! Equal Opportunity Statement As an equal opportunity employer, USC values and promotes diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace. The work culture thrives on mutual respect, trust, and synergy amongst all of its members. Background Screening Policy USC will consider for employment all qualified applicants with criminal records in a manner consistent with applicable laws and regulations, including the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for employers and the Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, and with due consideration for patient and student safety. Please refer to the Background Screening Policy Appendix D for specific employment screen implications for the position for which you are applying. Compensation The hourly rate range for this position is $23.43 - $26.00. When extending an offer of employment, the University of Southern California considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position, the candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, internal peer equity, federal, state, and local laws, contractual stipulations, grant funding, as well as external market and organizational considerations. Minimum Education and Experience Minimum Education: Specialized/technical training Minimum Experience: 3 years Minimum Field of Expertise: Three years chairside experience directly in a dental environment or private practice in one or more recognized dental disciplines (general/prosthodontics, endodontics, periodontics, oral surgery, pedodontics, orthodontics, special patients). Working knowledge of HIPAA compliance, PPO and dental terminology. Demonstrated excellent interpersonal patient service skills, and ability to multi-task. Working knowledge of proper sterilization and instrument management techniques. Demonstrated experience in a high volume, fast paced environment. Demonstrated team-oriented and collaborative work style. Ability to travel to and from various local locations. Possesses a current California Registered Dental Assistant License, current California X-Ray Certificate, current CPR Certification, and current Basic Life Support (BLS) for Healthcare Providers Certification. Job ID REQ20170785 Posted Date 01/09/2026 Apply Apply Current employees apply here Current employees apply here #J-18808-Ljbffr