Dental Assistant in Training

Native Preference in hiring is given to qualified enrolled members of Paskenta Band of Nomlaki Indians and Native Americans in accordance with the Band’s Preference Policy. Applicants claiming Indian Preference must submit verification of Indian heritage certified by tribe of affiliation or other acceptable documentation.

About the Role

Under the direction of the Dental Clinic Manager, the Dental Assistant in Training will function as a circulating assistant in chairside dental procedures under supervision. This position includes on-the-job training from currently employed RDA(s)/RDAEFII(s) and preceptorship by the Dental Director/Dentists to learn dentistry procedures, clinic infection control, instrument sterilization, tray setup, and materials. This position may require travel between Rolling Hills Clinic sites to fill temporary staffing vacancies or shortages.

Responsibilities

• Perform all phases of four-handed dental assisting duties for endodontics, oral surgery, pedodontics, prosthodontics, and restorative procedures.
• Perform standard and radiographic methods, including exposing, processing, and mounting diagnostic radiographs.
• Demonstrate familiarity with dental terminology, materials, medications, and instruments used during dental procedures.
• Perform supportive tasks to ensure efficiency of patient flow:
  • Clean and sterilize instruments, and set up trays.
  • Stock and store all supplies and materials.
  • Maintain and test equipment (sterilizer, x-ray dosimetry, x-ray processor, etc.), including daily lubrication.
  • Perform lab procedures such as pouring models.
• Instruct patients in oral hygiene and preventive dental education under the supervision of the dentist.
• Inventory and reorder supplies to maintain par levels.
• Document exam findings in patient records.
• Maintain clean, orderly, and well-stocked operatories and laboratory.
• Plan work duties to ensure dental clinic efficiency.
• Knowledge of patient scheduling procedures.
• Work with Staff Dentists/Dental Coordinator to develop and implement preventive dental activities for the community.
• Follow all safety protocols to ensure personal and patient safety, including compliance with ergonomic safety standards.
• Take appropriate corrective actions regarding employee health and safety matters.
• Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

Requirements

• Completion of an approved radiation safety course within one year of the start of the training program.
• Current BLS CPR Certification.
• High School Diploma or equivalent (GED).
• Valid California driver’s license and proof of personal liability automobile insurance as required by California state law.
• Demonstrate knowledge of Rolling Hills Clinic structure, standards, procedures, and protocols.
• Ability to relate and communicate effectively with community interest groups, agencies, and medical facilities serving the American Indian Community.

Background Check & Vaccination Requirements

• Pre-employment drug testing and Department of Justice fingerprinting clearance through Federal, State, and Child Abuse Index.
• Pre-employment physical exam required upon hire.
• Provide vaccination records showing proof of immunity for TB or PPD, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Varicella, TDAP, and Hep B. If records are over 10 years old, titers are required to confirm immunity.

Physical Demands

• Regularly required to talk and hear.
• Frequently required to stand, walk, sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel, and reach with hands and arms.
• Occasionally required to stoop, lift, and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• May require exertion up to 20 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

Work Environment

• Work is performed in a health clinic setting with low to moderate noise levels.
• Exposure to blood-borne pathogens requiring OSHA training.
• Routine use of standard office equipment such as computers, telephones, photocopiers, and fax machines.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.