Dental Assistant - HOPE Center (Macon, GA)

Pay Grade: E Click HERE for Video Overview Who we are. We protect lives. The Georgia Department of Public Health is the lead agency entrusted by the people of Georgia to proudly protect lives and promote healthy lifestyles in diverse communities statewide. We are committed to preventing disease, injury, and disability; promoting health and well-being; and preparing the State of Georgia for responding to disasters. What we offer. As a member of the Georgia Department of Public Health team, you will join a passionate group of individuals who are dedicated to making an impact. No matter your role, you will individually contribute to protecting the lives of all Georgians while receiving a wide range of benefits, so you can: Make a Professional Impact – Build your career where it matters and protect lives in the community where you live, work, and play Enjoy Workplace Flexibility – Experience flexibility in how you work so you can be your best self for you and Georgia Residents Work with a Dynamic and Diverse Team – Collaborative and inclusive way of working where employees share ideas and leverage collective strengths Achieve Career Longevity – Countless opportunities for continuous learning/development that support a long-term career Take Part in a Hands-on Working Culture – Unique culture of active engagement and problem-solving, no matter your role Feel Pride in Where you Work – Be part of making an impact in public health alongside dedicated people just like you Come join our team! The North Central Health District (NCHD) is seeking a skilled Dental Assistant to work full-time at the HOPE Center Dental Clinic. The Hope Center provides medical care, dental services, and case management to individuals living with HIV/AIDS. It also includes a housing program for people living with HIV/AIDS, COMPASS Pharmacy, and transportation services to appointments. The Dental Clinic is new, so this is an exciting opportunity to be involved with the clinic from its beginning. This is a grant-funded position and subject to available grant funds. Under broad supervision, assists the dentist and/or hygienist in chair-side dentistry and prepares dental instruments. Performs administrative duties as needed and can serve as a lead worker. Responsibilities include time management, organizational skills, enhanced infection control, and accurate documentation of treatment plans. This role involves frequent interactions with patients, providers, and staff. Primary Duties & Responsibilities Apply topical fluoride and dental sealants. Record procedures and services rendered in the EMR system. Assist the dentist in managing medical and dental emergencies. Clean and polish removable dental appliances. Expose and process dental diagnostic x-rays. Instruct clients in oral hygiene and plaque control programs. Prepare patients, sterilize and disinfect instruments, set up instrument trays, prepare materials, and assist the dentist during procedures. Provide postoperative instructions as prescribed by the dentist. Record treatment information accurately in patient records. Take and document medical and dental histories and vital signs of clients. Train other staff in proper day-to-day procedures as needed. Attend educational courses, training, and seminars to stay current in dental practices and protocols. Perform additional professional responsibilities as assigned. High School diploma/GED and two (2) years of experience in a dental setting; or a Vocational/Technical degree in dental assisting from an accredited college and one (1) year of experience as a dental assistant; or one (1) year experience at the lower level Dental Asst 2 (HCS011) or position equivalent. Preferred Qualifications Strong knowledge of dental assisting terminology, principles, and techniques. Proficient in infection control practices and instrument sterilization. Experienced in taking radiographs, providing oral hygiene instruction and tobacco counseling, and educating patients on the importance of oral health. The DPH Commissioner and agency leaders encourage all employees to engage in regular wellness activities and to make lifestyle choices that promote health and well-being. The use of physical activity breaks during the workday is authorized to support this philosophy and help employees meet their wellness goals. A maximum of 30 minutes of physical activity may be allocated per workday, typically in the form of two 15-minute breaks or one 30-minute break. Employment Information State of Georgia employees are subject to the rules of the State Personnel Board regarding salary. DPH accepts educational credentials recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and/or the US Department of Education (DOE) as valid. DPH will contact educational institutions to verify degrees, diplomas, licensures, and other relevant credentials. The candidate selected for this position may be subject to pre-employment drug screening and a criminal background check. Relocation assistance is not provided. In the event of an identified emergency, you may be required, as a term and condition of DPH employment, to assist in meeting the emergency responsibilities of the department. ADA and EEO ADA Statement: DPH is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, programs, activities, and employment for individuals with disabilities. To request a reasonable accommodation for the application or interview process, email View email address on click.appcast.io. DPH is an Equal Opportunity Employer _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Due to the volume of applications received, we are unable to provide information on application status by phone or e-mail. All qualified applicants will be considered, but may not receive an interview. DPH will contact selected applicants to proceed with the application process. Applicants who are not selected will not receive notification. This position is subject to close at any time once a satisfactory applicant pool has been identified. Benefits Standard Benefits for Full-Time Salaried Employees – In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a generous benefits package that includes a flexible schedule, training opportunities, health insurance, employee retirement plan (ERS GSEPS), deferred compensation, 13 paid holidays, vacation and sick leave, paid parental leave, dental, vision, long-term care, and life insurance. Standard Benefits for Part-Time Employees – Part-time employees are eligible to participate in the Georgia Defined Contribution Plan and receive paid parental leave. #J-18808-Ljbffr North Central Health District