Lead Dental Assistant

About the role

As a Lead Dental Assistant at Tend, you’ll take on a dual role: providing outstanding chairside support while leading and supporting the performance of the Dental Assistant team in your studio. You’ll oversee daily workflows, ensure clinical and sterilization protocols are followed, and help coach and develop Dental Assistants to excel in their roles. Our model is built for strong clinical leaders who want to grow their own careers while empowering others. You’ll be part of a collaborative, growth-minded culture that’s raising the bar for dentistry — and having fun doing it.

Responsibilities

• Provide best-in-class chairside support to dentists and hygienists across a variety of procedures
• Lead and coach the Dental Assistant team, providing feedback, training, and mentorship
• Oversee room prep, sterilization protocols, and compliance with OSHA and CDC standards
• Partner with providers and studio leadership to optimize daily workflows and studio efficiency
• Anticipate the needs of patients, providers, and teammates to keep the studio flow effective and patient-first
• Support staffing, scheduling, and onboarding of new Dental Assistants
• Model Tend’s values and create a positive, collaborative environment where the team thrives
• Participate in ongoing leadership and professional development opportunities
• Champion new initiatives and company goals with enthusiasm

Requirements

• All state-required certifications, registrations, or licenses for dental assistants
• Current CPR/BLS certification
• Minimum 2–3 years of dental assisting experience (plus previous leadership experience preferred)
• Demonstrated ability to coach, train, and support Dental Assistants
• Strong knowledge of infection control and sterilization protocols
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Adaptability to new technologies and workflows in a modern studio environment
• Ability to work a full-time schedule (32–40 hours per week including some Saturdays)

Qualifications

• Embody Tend values: Tend to Others, Be Brave Enough to Lead, Savor the Ride, Embrace Our Differences, Rooted in Growth
• Role‑based competencies: Adapt in the Moment, Contribute to Team Success, Communicate with Clarity

Skills

• Infection control and sterilization expertise
• Chairside assistance across varied procedures
• Leadership, coaching, and mentorship
• Workflow optimization and scheduling support
• Effective communication with patients, providers, and teammates
• Adaptability to changing priorities and technologies

Benefits

• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance plus Dental Wellness Program
• 401(k) with company match
• Ongoing training, mentorship, and leadership development opportunities
• Life & AD&D insurance, disability coverage, health advocacy resources
• FSAs, HSAs, and pre‑tax transit and parking benefits
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and personal well‑being resources

Pay

Pay Range: $30 USD - $34 USD

Schedule

Ability to work a full-time schedule (32–40 hours per week including some Saturdays)