Dental Sterilization Technician

About the role

The Dental Sterilization Technician assists in performance of quality, caring, and clinical dentistry by preparing operatories and sterilizing or disinfecting clinical equipment. This role also assists the dentist with sterilization of instruments and chairside dental assisting when appropriate. Basic training for chairside dental assisting will be included in on-the-job training to prepare for additional dental assisting opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Sterilize instruments before and after patient use.
• Disinfect operatories before and after use.
• Select and use the correct cleaning method (manual or mechanical) and cleaning chemicals for each item.
• Accurately load, unload, and operate ultrasonic cleaners, autoclaves, etc., to ensure items are clean and safe for handling.
• Maintain hand pieces properly.
• Ensure vacuum lines, unit, chair, light, instruments, and tray setups are thoroughly disinfected and sterilized.
• Set up instrument trays and prepare materials for patients treated by the dentist.
• Ensure rooms are properly equipped and stocked.
• Perform regular maintenance of equipment throughout the dental office.
• Verify correct cycle parameters and ensure spore tests are done regularly and monitored.
• Assist the dentist or dental hygienist in layout and transfer of instruments using approved dental assisting principles (skills will be taught on the job).
• Assist in preparation and delivery of dental materials when requested.
• Comply with State and Federal OSHA laws, infection control, and safety standards, including wearing PPE (gloves, gowns, eye-wear), disinfecting and sterilizing instruments, and proper disposal of contaminated waste.
• Notify supervisor of equipment issues or safety concerns.
• Maintain a professional working environment within the office team.
• Adhere to OSHA-compliant uniform attire and personal hygiene standards.
• Attend continuing education and training seminars as scheduled.
• Provide supportive care for patients.
• Handle protected health information (PHI) in compliance with HIPAA.
• Prepare claim forms and arrange supporting documents for dental insurance.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• Successful completion of the Infection Control Exam within six months of hire following on-the-job training.
• Previous experience in a clinical environment preferred.
• Desire to learn dental assisting and interest in pursuing additional dental assisting training opportunities strongly preferred.
• Excellent customer service and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to read, write, and understand information.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, patient-focused environment.
• Ability to effectively sterilize treatment rooms and instruments according to company policies and State/Federal laws.
• Sensitivity to inter-cultural, social, and economic issues.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a professional team.
• Willingness to support team members to accomplish daily activities.
• Proficiency in English (spoken and written) preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Sitting: 20%
• Standing/Walking: up to 85%
• Use of computer: 50%
• Lifting/Carrying: less than 5% (must be able to lift/carry up to 30 lbs. on occasion).
• Ability to stoop, bend, and reach frequently.

Working Environment

• Work in a well-lighted, ventilated environment.
• Possible exposure to bloodborne pathogens and hazardous chemicals; proper infection control procedures must be observed.

Pay

$21.00 per hour.