Dental Assistant

Summary

At the Indian Health Service, Dental Assistants do more than support oral care. Guided by our mission to improve the health of American Indian and Alaska Native people, you will help deliver safe and effective dental services while creating healthy smiles, restoring confidence, and promoting overall wellness in the communities we serve.

Real  be required beginning May 7, 2025, in accordance with 6 C.F.R. 37.5 (2021).

• Assist the dentist in all phases of restorative and surgical procedures.
• Maintain aseptic technique and sterilize instruments.
• Expose and process dental radiographs following radiation‑safety protocols.
• Educate patients on oral hygiene and post‑treatment care.
• Support dental clinic operations, maintain supplies, and manage patient records.

Check out IHS's outstanding total compensation package for this job.

• Probationary period may apply to the selected candidate.
• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959.
• Position is covered by Public Law 101‑630; applicants must have no convictions or plea of nolo contendere or guilty in the specified crimes.
• Physical demands: walking, sitting, standing, reaching, and bending for patient assessment and treatment.
• Must pass the E‑Verify employment verification check.
• Must set up direct deposit for payment.

Background Investigation Requirement:
This position requires successful completion of a federal background investigation as a condition of employment, including timely completion of required forms and communication with the Personnel Security Specialist.

Financial Suitability Requirement:
Applicants must demonstrate financial responsibility, maintain good standing with creditors, and satisfy all legal financial obligations. Substantial delinquent or unresolved financial obligations may result in ineligibility.

To qualify, a resume must state sufficient experience and/or education to perform the duties of the specific position.

• Experience:
  
  paid, unpaid, or volunteer work with clear duties and total hours per week.
• Basic requirements for radiologic procedures: certified radiographer status or prior federal radiologic personnel experience meeting credentialing standards of 42 CFR Part 75.

• GS‑02: 3 months of general experience OR high school graduate or equivalent.
• GS‑03: 6 months of general experience OR completion of a 1‑year dental assistant program.
• GS‑04: 6 months of general experience AND 6 months of specialized experience, OR completion of a 2‑year dental assistant program or a 2‑year dental hygiene program accredited by the ADA’s Commission on Accreditation.

• GS‑03: 1‑year dental assistant program or 1‑year dental hygiene program with required radiation courses, or practical nurse training approved by the appropriate authority.
• GS‑04: 2‑year dental assistant program or 2‑year dental hygiene program with at least 12 semester hours of specified courses.

May be covered by a Bargaining Unit.

Recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized. A minimum 6‑month service agreement is required.

Position may have promotion potential to GS‑06; promotion is at management’s discretion and not guaranteed.

Applicants must comply with the IHS Employee Immunization Policy for vaccine‑preventable diseases.

As a federal employee, you and your family have access to a comprehensive benefits package designed to reward federal career service.