Dental Assistant

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Job

Agency:
Department of Corrections – Inmate Services

Location:

Rapid City, SD (RCCF)

Salary: $22.00 to $27.00 Hourly, depending on qualifications

Pay Grade: F

Closing Date:
Open Until Filled

This is a Part‑Time position with the Department of Corrections - Inmate Services team. For more information on the DOC, please visit (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..

The South Dakota Department of Corrections is hiring! Join the DOC – view DOC Recruitment video here:

This position assists the dentist in providing routine and emergency dental care, assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of patients in a correctional setting.

At The Department Of Corrections (DOC), we have an opportunity to make a difference. As a DOC employee, you will have a chance to experience:

• Creativity – We are always looking for innovative ideas to help us achieve improved outcomes.
• Making a difference – Opportunity to impact the lives of South Dakotans.
• Professional development – Valuable trainings to ensure well‑trained staff.
• Teamwork – Foster a friendly work environment to achieve shared goals.
• Public safety – Contributions help keep South Dakota safe.

• Applicant must have two years of full‑time, professional work experience as a Dental Assistant.
• Eligible to obtain or possess a South Dakota Dental Radiographer registration and/or Advanced Dental Assistant license.
• Maintain an AHA BLS provider certification.

• Successful completion of an accredited dental assisting program and/or DANB exam may substitute for one year of required experience. Attach proof of completion.

The ideal candidate will have knowledge of:

• Dental Procedures & Terminology – Routine and emergency procedures, restorative techniques, and specialized treatments.
• Radiography & Imaging – Exposing and interpreting digital x‑rays (periapicals, bitewings, panoramic radiographs) while adhering to safety protocols.
• Infection Control & Sterilization – Proper sanitation, sterilization techniques, and handling biohazardous waste.
• Pharmacology & Medication Handling – Awareness of dental medications, anesthetics, and administration practices.
• Basic Dental Clinic Operations Management – Scheduling, inventory control, tool safety, and preventive maintenance.
• Health & Safety Regulations – OSHA, CDC guidelines, and radiation safety protocols.

The ideal candidate will have the following skills:

• Dental Assisting & Patient Care – Assist dentists and educate offenders on oral hygiene.
• Communication & Teamwork – Collaborate with dentists, nurses, and correctional staff.
• Organizational & Time Management – Handle scheduling, records, and efficient clinic operations.
• Problem‑Solving & Adaptability – Respond to emergencies, navigate security concerns.
• Technical Proficiency – Handle dental instruments, x‑ray machines, sterilization equipment, digital records.
• Independent Accountability – Initiate tasks and maintain compliance without direct supervision.
• Physical & Mental Resilience – Manage demands, participate in self‑defense training.

The ideal candidate will have the ability to:

• Multitask in a high‑stakes environment.
• Maintain confidentiality & professionalism.
• Adhere to security procedures for tools, chemicals, and clinic activities.
• Apply critical thinking under pressure.
• Show physical stamina & dexterity.

• Ensure daily completion of dental clinic operations: scheduling, tool control, chemical control, infection control, biohazardous waste handling, hazardous materials and radiation control, exposure control regulations.
• Expose digital x‑rays (periapicals, bitewings, panoramic radiographs).
• Set up trays for restorative procedures.
• Educate offenders about oral hygiene.
• Sterilize instruments and equipment using an autoclave.
• Dispose of medical contaminated waste.
• Adapt to radiation safety and infection control guidelines to individual circumstances.
• Troubleshoot, monitor, and maintain intra‑oral x‑ray machines.
• Set a regular preventive maintenance…