The VA GLA Healthcare System Dental Service is one of the largest patient care, education and research enterprises in VHA. GLA is a tertiary medical care facility which provides complex care in all aspects and specialties of dentistry including endodontics, periodontics, prosthodontics, maxillofacial prosthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery as well as general dentistry in an outpatient, inpatient (bedside), Nursing Home Care Unit and operating room settings.
Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met. Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Experience and Education: Experience. Six months experience that demonstrates the applicant's ability to perform the work or provides familiarity with the work. *Please make sure that your experience is evident in your resume with month and year of start and end dates. OR Education. Successful completion of a 1-year dental assistant program accredited by the American Dental Association's Commission on [Dental] Accreditation (CODA). *Transcripts must be submitted. Conferral of degree must be present on transcripts. Unofficial transcripts are okay. OR Experience/Education Combination. Equivalent combinations of experience and education are qualifying. *Transcripts must be submitted. Conferral of degree must be present on transcripts. Unofficial transcripts are okay. Radiologic Certification. Public Law 97-35 requires that persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 CFR Part 75. Essentially, they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation, and is accredited by an organization recognized by the Department of Education, and be certified as radiographers in their field.Successful completion of the Dental Radiation Health and Safety Examination administered by the Dental Assisting National Board. *A copy of this certification must be submitted with your application. OR Successful completion of the Principles and Practice of Dental Radiology and Radiographic Safety courses and examinations developed by the Assistant Under Secretary for Health for Dentistry. *A copy of this certification must be submitted with your application. OR Successful completion of a radiation health and safety program or examination approved by a state board of dentistry or the Department of Defense (DoD) *A copy of this certification must be submitted with your application. DANB Certification. The American Dental Association (ADA) recognizes DANB as the national certification for Dental Assistants. DANB certifi­cation is required for all positions above the full performance level (GS-06). *A copy of this certification must be submitted with your application. Grade Determinations: GS-7 References: VA Handbook 5005, Part II, Appendix G36 Physical Requirements: Light lifting (under 15 pounds); light carrying (under 15 pounds); walking (2 hours); standing (2 hours); repeated bending (2 hours); near vision corrected to 13" to 16"; far vision correctable in on eye to 20/20 and 20/40 in the other; and hearing (aid permitted). Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-07.
The Lead Dental Assistant works with the supervisor or Chief Dental Service to monitor and make work assignments, provide input on performance, resolve daily workplace issues, and maintain efficient flow of patient care. The major duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to: Assures the work assignments of employees in the unit are carried out. Coordinates daily dental assistant work assignments at the start of the shift, and throughout the day as the need arises. Serves as Systems Redesign Coordinator. Trains employees (dentist, dental residents, and dental assistants) in computerized dental patient record systems including generating patient consults, storing and viewing digital images, entry of diagnostic data, and preparation of treatment planning. Provides input in developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for the dental staff for Reusable Medical Equipment. Participates in the management of dental supplies to assure adequate stock levels and appropriate storage. Serves as a liaison between the scheduler and the dentist to maintain efficient and productive use of the dentists' patient care time and minimize missed opportunities. Reports to the supervisor on individual performance, progress, and training needs of employees, and on performance problems. Maintains the dental station and treatment area in a clean and operational condition. Monitors function of dental equipment and requests repair or replacement. Assists in routine general dental procedures using concepts of four-handed dentistry. Sets up operatory and surgery suites for planned dental procedure, and cleans dental unit for timely turnover. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday, 7:30 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. Telework: Not available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: FS000000 Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not authorized Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not authorized