Dental Assistant - TMWIHC Sonora Dental Clinic

Dental Assistant - TMWIHC Sonora Dental Clinic

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: Dental Assistant

Reports To: Lead RDA

Schedule: M-F; 8am-5pm

Status: Non-Exempt

Summary: Under the direction of the Lead RDA, the Dental Assistant will function as a circulating assistant in chair-side dental procedures. The Dental Assistant must be knowledgeable in all dentistry procedures, clinic infection control procedures, cleaning and sterilization of instruments, tray set up and materials.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES: (Will include but not limited to)

Perform the following DA Duties:

Mouth-mirror inspection of the oral cavity, to include charting of obvious lesions, existing restorations, and missing teeth.

Take dental radiographs of diagnostic quality.

Apply topical fluoride.

Take intraoral impressions for all non-prosthodontic appliances.

Place and remove rubber dams, wedges, matrices, and other isolation devices for restorative procedures.

Ability to set up operatory and perform all phases of four (4) handed dental assisting for endodontics, oral surgery, prosthodontics, and restorative procedures.

Familiarity with dental terminology, materials, medications and instruments used during dental procedures.

Ability to set up and break down the operatory in an efficient manner.

Clean, sterilize instruments, and set up trays.

Maintain clean, orderly, and well stocked operatories and laboratory.

Inventory and re-ordering of supplies as necessary.

Pouring up models and other lab procedures.

Instruct patients in oral hygiene and preventative dental education.

Accurate documentation of exam findings in electronic health record.

Knowledge of patient scheduling requirements.

Be familiar with the aims and objectives of the Health Center and express a genuine enthusiasm for its success.

The ability to appropriately and professionally interact with and to get along well with others is an essential function of this position.

Performs other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Certification in coronal polishing is required.

2. Radiation safety certification or completion of a radiation safety course approved by the California State Board of Dental Examiners is required.

Current CPR certification.

4. Must have the ability to work in an independent and self-directed manner and assume individual initiative. Must be willing and have the ability to accept supervision and to follow directions.

5. Must have the ability to communicate effectively orally and in writing; and the ability to follow oral and written instructions. Must possess sufficient written and verbal communication skills to be able to interact with patients, Medi-Cal professionals, vendors, and agencies in a professional manner, developing rapport and enhancing business relationships.

6. Must possess basic skill in using computers and other office equipment; in gathering and summarizing information; preparing reports; and in planning, organizing, prioritizing, and executing continuing assignments. Must have the ability to operate our electronic health record system.

7. Must have the ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive matters with discretion and tact. Must have knowledge of and the ability to maintain HIPAA privacy requirements. Must sign a confidentiality statement.

8. Must have the ability to work in a fast-paced and sometimes stressful environment.

Understanding of Insurance Coverage as follows:

a. General knowledge of Direct Care, CHS, and SHCF coverage (with training provided by TMWIHC staff); General knowledge of Medi-Cal and CMSP coverage;

b. General knowledge of Private Insurance coverage and pre-authorization requirements;

c. Understanding that an individual's insurance coverage does not change the recommended treatment.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This position requires walking, standing and sitting for prolonged periods of time; climbing stepstools, etc.; stooping, kneeling, crouching and reaching; pushing, pulling and lifting up to 30 pounds; raising objects overhead; manual dexterity for operation of computer, phones and small office machines; hearing, talking and good verbal and written communication skills; repetitive motions of the wrists, hands, and fingers.

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.

Tuolumne Me Wuk Indian Health Center