Overview Join our dynamic dental team as a Dental Assistant (DA) / Registered Dental Assistant (RDA), where your expertise will directly enhance patient care and streamline clinical operations. In this vital role, you will support dentists during procedures, manage patient flow, and ensure the highest standards of infection control and clinical excellence. Your proactive approach and attention to detail will help create a welcoming environment for patients of all ages, especially in pediatric and general dentistry settings. This paid position offers an exciting opportunity to grow your skills in a fast-paced, supportive environment committed to quality care and professional development. Join us in delivering exceptional dental care through teamwork, technical expertise, and compassionate patient management!

Pay Range:

$23.00-36.00/hour depending on licensure and experience

Working Hours:

8:30am-5:00pm Monday - Friday Position Summary The Dental Assistant/Registered Dental Assistant/ Dental Sterilization Technician supports clinical dental operations through sterilization processing, infection prevention, operatory turnover, patient support, and chairside assistance as permitted within the employee's training and scope of practice. This position is responsible for maintaining efficient clinical workflow while ensuring compliance with OSHA, CDC, HIPAA, and California Dental Board standards. This role requires flexibility, professionalism, strong organizational skills, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced rural healthcare environment serving a diverse patient population. Compensation and Benefits Valley Springs Health & Wellness Center offers a competitive compensation and benefits package that may include: Medical Insurance Vision Insurance (included in Medical) Dental Insurance 401(k) Retirement Plan Some Paid Holidays Accruing Vacation according to policy Sick Leave in accordance with California law Continuing Education and Professional Development Opportunities Benefits are subject to eligibility requirements and plan provisions and may be modified by the organization. Essential Functions Sterilization & Infection Control Duties Clean, disinfect, sterilize, package, and distribute dental instruments and equipment Operate sterilization equipment and maintain compliance documentation Monitor sterilization supply inventory and maintain organization of sterilization areas Turn over operatories between patients in accordance with infection control standards Dispose of biohazardous waste appropriately Dental Assistant Support Duties Prepare operatories and instruments for patient care Assist providers chairside during procedures as permitted by training and scope Escort and prepare patients for treatment Take and record patient vital signs and dental information as assigned Obtain dental radiographs if appropriately licensed/certified Provide patient education and post-procedure instructions Assist with scheduling coordination and clinical workflow support Maintain accurate documentation within the electronic health record system General Duties Maintain professional communication with patients and staff Participate in training, quality improvement activities, and compliance initiatives Support clinic operations and team workflow as needed Perform additional duties assigned within scope of practice Minimum Qualifications High school diploma or equivalent Current California Dental Assistant certification Basic computer proficiency Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism Reliable attendance and punctuality Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment Education Licensure and Certifications Current California Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) license required and maintained in good standing. Current California Radiation Safety certification required. Current Coronal Polishing certification required if performing coronal polishing. Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required within organizational timeframes. Preferred Qualifications Prior DA/RDA and sterilization experience CPR certification Knowledge of Dentrix Experience in public health, FQHC, RHC, or community healthcare settings California X-Ray certification Infection control certification Physical Requirements Frequent standing, bending, reaching, lifting, and repetitive hand movements Ability to lift to 25 pounds Manual dexterity is sufficient to handle dental instruments and equipment Ability to work in a clinical environment with exposure to biohazardous materials Work Environment This position functions within a busy outpatient dental and healthcare clinic environment requiring flexibility, teamwork, professionalism, and adherence to strict infection prevention standards. Equal Employment Opportunity Statement Valley Springs Health Wellness Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws. Responsibilities Assist dentists during a variety of dental procedures, including oral surgery, endodontics, prosthodontics, and pediatric dentistry, utilizing four-handed dentistry techniques to optimize efficiency. Prepare treatment rooms by sterilizing dental instruments and ensuring all dental equipment, including X-ray machines and 3D scanners, are functioning properly. Take and develop dental radiographs (X-ray images) while adhering to strict infection prevention management and aseptic techniques to ensure patient safety. Manage patient records using electronic medical records (EMR) systems such as Eaglesoft or Dentrix, ensuring accurate documentation of medical history, treatment plans, and clinical notes in compliance with HIPAA regulations. Conduct vital signs assessments and medical imaging procedures to assist with diagnosis and treatment planning. Educate patients on oral health practices, post-treatment care, and dental terminology to promote ongoing oral health awareness. Maintain a clean, organized clinical environment by following infection control protocols and dental sterilization procedures. Support the dental reception team by managing patient management software for appointment scheduling and patient communication. Ensure compliance with all clinical confidentiality policies while handling sensitive medical documentation and records. Experience Previous experience working in a dental clinic setting with exposure to general dentistry, pediatric dentistry, or oral surgery is highly preferred. Proficiency with EMR systems such as Eaglesoft or Dentrix is essential for efficient patient data management. Strong knowledge of dental terminology, equipment operation, and dental instrument processing is required to support clinical workflows effectively. Familiarity with dental radiography techniques including X-ray procedures and 3D scanning enhances your ability to assist with complex diagnostics. Demonstrated understanding of healthcare infection prevention and control practices—such as aseptic technique and sterilization—is crucial for maintaining a safe clinical environment. Experience supporting various specialties like prosthodontics or endodontics will be considered an asset. Excellent communication skills in explaining procedures and instructions clearly to patients of all ages are important for fostering trust and comfort. Disclaimer This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this position. It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Valley Springs Health & Wellness Center reserves the right to modify, assign, or remove duties and responsibilities as operational needs require. Employment is at-will and nothing in this job description should be construed as creating a contract of employment. Employees are expected to comply with all organizational policies, procedures, and standards of conduct. Valley Springs Health & Wellness Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer , complies with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws and is committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination and harassment.

Pay:

$23.00 - $36.00 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 per week

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Free flu shots Free parking Health insurance License reimbursement Opportunities for advancement Paid orientation Paid time off Uniform allowance Vision insurance

License/Certification:

Registered Dental Assistant License or DA Certification (Preferred) Ability to

Commute:

Valley Springs, CA 95252 (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person