Laboratory Assistant - Dental Assistant

Laboratory Assistant – Dental Assistant

Location: Mesa Campus (957 S. Dobson Road) | On-Site

Type: Part-Time 10 hours per week Days

Department: Dental Assistant Program

Compensation: $20.80 – $24.96 per hour

Position Summary

Support the hands-on education and training of future healthcare professionals! Pima Medical Institute is seeking a Laboratory Assistant – Dental Assistant to assist in delivering lab instruction in accordance with established curriculum standards and course objectives .

In this role, you will work side-by-side with program faculty to set up lab scenarios, guide students through clinical skill check-offs, grade assignments using instructor answer keys, and ensure students master essential four-handed and six-handed dentistry techniques .

Key Responsibilities

Lab Preparation & Instructional Support:

• Scenario Development: Coordinate regularly with program faculty and didactic instructors to develop, schedule, and execute practical lab scenarios .

• Hands-on Demonstration: Demonstrate the proper operation of all clinical skills equipment, ensuring students adhere to safe, current dental assisting techniques .

• Supply Management: Monitor lab inventory, check supplies, and prepare restock requests for the Faculty Coordinator or Office Assistant . Assist with preparing and copying course materials as needed .

Student Advising & Grading:

• Skill Check-Offs: Assist instructors at the end of each module to ensure all clinical check-off sheets are fully completed, signed, and turned in to administration on time .

• Academic Feedback: Assist in grading student homework and quizzes using provided instructor keys . Schedule regular check-ins with students to advise them on their academic performance and progress .

• Faculty Collaboration: Provide feedback to Didactic Instructors, Clinical Directors, and Program Directors regarding individual student learning needs and potential academic risks .

Record Keeping & Compliance:

• Confidentiality: Maintain detailed, confidential student records regarding performance, skill progression, testing, and written assignments in accordance with institutional policy .

• Professional Development: Maintain thorough familiarity with course objectives and program standards, participating in faculty in-service trainings and professional development events .

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• Education: Graduation from an accredited Dental Assistant program recognized by the USDE or CHEA (or recognized equivalent/foreign entity) OR a minimum of four (4) years of job-related training and experience for non-accredited program graduates .

• Practical Experience: Minimum of three (3) years of occupational (practical) experience in Dental Assisting .

• Clinical Skills: Functional proficiency in four-handed and six-handed chairside dentistry principles , as well as awareness of state regulations governing dental assisting educational programs .

• Technical Proficiency: Working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint) and basic computer/office software .

• Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills .

Required Licenses, Certifications, or Registrations:

• Active credential as a Certified Dental Assistant (CDA), Registered Dental Assistant (RDA), or Licensed Dentist (CDA/RDA credentials not required for licensed dentists) .

• Current license, certification, or registration as required by local, state, or federal laws to work in the dental assisting field .

Compensation

• Hiring Range: $20.80 to $24.96 per hour.