Dental Assistant

Summary The Dental Assistant assists the dentist in many aspects of direct patient care and performs other clinical and clerical functions independently of direct supervision. Work location is Fort Harrison VHA and Billings CBOC. Qualifications Applicants pending completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met. U.S. Citizenship required. Minimum six months of experience or education demonstrating ability to perform the work. Successful completion of a 1-year dental assistant program accredited by CODA. Certification in basic life support methods is desirable. English language proficiency in spoken and written English. Radiographic Competence Persons who administer radiologic procedures must meet credentialing standards in 42 CFR Part 75. Certification must be completed via the Dental Radiation Health and Safety Examination by DANB or equivalent courses approved by a state board or DoD. Temporarily appointed graduate dental assistants are allowed if they meet eligibility requirements for radiologic competence. Failure to obtain certification during the appointment period may result in termination of employment. Grade Determinations GS-3 – basic experience or education. GS-4 – 1 year of experience at next level or 2 years of education above high school that included CODA program; requires basic knowledge of infection control, dental procedures, radiographic skills, equipment care, patient privacy. GS-5 – Additional 1 year of experience comparable to GS-4 or a 4-year course with CODA program; requires knowledge of anatomy, diagnostic evaluation, medical emergencies, vital signs, instrumentation, software, communication. GS-6 (full performance) – 1 year of experience at GS-5 level; requires advanced knowledge of oral anatomy, instruments, restorative procedures, vital sign monitoring, patient education, imaging quality, equipment maintenance, electronic records, laboratory procedures. Duties Provides chairside assistance during dental procedures; sets up operatory, passes instruments, maintains operative field, prepares medicaments, and assists with general and specialized procedures. Operates dental imaging equipment, ensuring diagnostic quality and safety; acquires images within required timeframe. Performs infection control and equipment sterilization per SPD standards. Completes clerical functions: schedules appointments, assists with scheduling gaps, manages patient information while maintaining HIPAA confidentiality. Monitors patient condition, obtains vital signs, administers basic life support if required, and follows JCAHO time-out and patient identification protocols. Conducts dental laboratory tasks: pours impressions, prepares study models, fits and finishes temporary crowns and bridges, polishes and re‑cements crowns and teeth. Provides post-operative patient education and coordinates referrals to treating dentist. Schedule and Compensation Work schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Pay: Competitive salary with regular increases; higher step rate may be applied for higher qualifications. Paid Time Off: 37 – 50 days per year, including 13 – 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, and 11 Federal holidays. Parental leave: Up to 12 weeks paid after 12 months of employment. Childcare subsidy: Eligible employees may receive up to 25 percent subsidy for eligible children. Retirement: Traditional federal pension after 5 years vesting and federal 401(k) with up to 5 percent employer match. Health and insurance: Federal health, vision, dental, term life, long-term care; telework not available. #J-18808-Ljbffr