DENTAL ASSISTANT

Overview Position: Dental Assistant (Taskforce 64043712) – Department of Health, Marion County Health Department Salary: $38,136.00 – $40,042.60 annually Responsibilities Review referrals and schedule appointments in accordance with clinic protocols. Conduct medical history interviews and complete SOAP notes. Maintain patient records and uphold confidentiality in compliance with fiscal and clinic supervisor requirements. Coordinate communication with referring entities and track referrals and pre‑authorizations. Assist dentists using four‑handed technique, including wiring instruments, retracting tissues, and suctioning. Polish clinical crowns, apply fluoride gels and varnish, place sealants, remove sutures, fabricate and cement temporary crowns. Mix restorative materials and cements; assist with restorative procedures. Prepare and maintain proper operatory setup, including instruments, equipment, and supplies inventory. Operate and maintain the Eaglesoft electronic dental record and State health record systems. Perform radiographic procedures per board certification, using ScanX phosphoretic plates and software. Adhere to Florida Board of Dentistry and DOH sterilization and infection control standards; clean and disinfect instruments and surfaces. Maintain sterilization logs, autoclave testing, and biomedical waste procedures. Manage dental material inventory, order supplies, validate packing slips, and coordinate with the finance office. Demonstrate techniques to students and assist with outreach events and school programs. Provide clerical support: confirm appointments, send reminders, complete encounter and lab prescription forms, process referrals, and perform assigned computer tasks. Assist emergency responses, including alerting the dentist, calling 911, and performing CPR if required. Maintain accurate logs for emergency kit, eye wash station, and sterilization. Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Certified Dental Assistant degree in Florida. Recruit volunteers; interact professionally with hospital and dental staff. Active CPR certification. Proficient with standard dental procedures, materials, and electronic record systems. Knowledge of OSHA standards, infection control, and hazardous materials. Positive, helpful attitude toward staff and patients. Organized, neat, and able to follow directions. Prioritize, organize, and work independently or within a busy clinic team. Teach and demonstrate procedures to students as directed by the dentist. Basic computer operation and ability to learn new clinic programs. Alert to clinic activities and maintain accurate files. Qualifications Minimum : Skilled in placing sealants and assisting the dentist; capable of independent work; Expanded Functions Dental Assistant (EFDA) certificate; Florida Dental Radiography Certificate; Basic Life Support certification; at least six months of dental assisting experience with customer service skills. Preferred : Graduate from an accredited dental assisting school; experience with pediatric patients; proficiency in instrument sterilization, dental procedures, x‑rays, and patient oral hygiene instruction. Benefits Annual and sick leave. Nine paid holidays and one personal holiday. State group insurance options: health, life, dental, vision, and supplemental plans. Retirement plan with employer contributions. Equal Opportunity & Other Legal Requirements Florida Department of Health is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not tolerate discrimination or violence in the workplace. All applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements. Veterans are encouraged to apply and receive preference per Florida Statutes. Security background check, drug screening, and direct deposit are required. Social Security Number will be requested for background processing. Location Marion County Health Department 1801 SE 32nd Ave, Ocala, FL 34471 #J-18808-Ljbffr