Licensed Dental Assistant

Licensed Dental Assistant University of South Dakota

Posting Number: CSA
02550P

Department: USD-Dental Hygiene The University of South Dakota Department of Dental Hygiene is a leading dental hygiene program committed to providing high-quality patient care, student education, and innovative dental services. We are seeking a skilled Licensed Dental Assistant to join our team in a hybrid role combining clinical assisting, insurance coordination, and administrative support.

Physical Location of Position (City): Sioux Falls

Job Description: The Department of Dental Hygiene at the University of South Dakota (USD) is seeking a Dental Assistant to join our Sioux Falls Clinic. This position primarily provides chairside dental assisting, manages dental insurance coordination, and offers front desk support as needed. The role is essential to maintaining patient care quality, accurate insurance processing, and smooth clinic operations while supporting dental hygiene students in a teaching environment.

This position is 90% time, Monday through Thursday from 7:30am to 5:30pm.

Dental Assisting

• Provide chairside assistance to dentists and dental hygienists.
• Seat patients, pass instruments, and prepare dental materials.
• Take and develop intraoral and extraoral radiographs.
• Maintain infection control by disinfecting operatories and sterilizing instruments.
• Provide oral hygiene instruction to patients and supervise students during clinical procedures.

Insurance Coordination

• Verify patient insurance benefits and eligibility prior to appointments.
• Submit and follow up on claims, preauthorizations, and denials.
• Communicate with insurance companies and patients regarding coverage and financial responsibilities.

Front Desk / Administrative Support (As Needed)

• Assist with patient check-in/check-out and scheduling.
• Update patient records and process payments.
• Provide general administrative support to ensure a smooth clinic workflow.

• Current Licensed Dental Assistant in the State of South Dakota.
• Knowledge of dental assisting procedures, radiography, infection control, and dental insurance processes.
• Strong multitasking, communication, and organizational skills.

• Opportunity to work in a teaching environment supporting the next generation of dental hygienists.
• Collaborative team environment with professional development opportunities.
• State health insurance and benefits including:
  • Annual leave for personal time off.
  • Sick leave to support health and well-being.
  • 11 paid holidays.
  • Retirement plan with 6% matching.

Closing Date:

Open Until Filled: Yes

First Consideration Date: 12/18/2025

Advertised Salary: $21.50 - $23.49

Duration of the Term: 12 months

Appointment Percent: 90 (Monday-Thursday)

Work Hours: 90% time (4 days per week) Possible days are Monday – Thursday 7:30am-5:30pm with lunch hour

USD is committed to fostering a dynamic and welcoming working and learning environment for all. USD provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to ideological, political, or sectarian opinions or perspectives; or race, color, creed, religion, sex, ancestry, disability, national origin or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. USD is committed to the principles of free expression and encourages the timely and rational discussion of topics in an environment that is intellectually and ideologically diverse.

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