Launch Your Healthcare Career: Dental Assistant Opportunities at Fort Drum
Are you a dental professional looking for a stable career with purpose? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently seeking compassionate and skilled individuals to serve as Dental Assistants at the Stone Dental Clinic in Fort Drum, New York. This role is more than just a job; it is an opportunity to provide essential healthcare services to the brave men and women who serve our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Dental Assistant, you will play a pivotal role in the daily operations of the clinic. Key duties include:
- Providing direct chair-side support to dental specialists.
- Operating dental X-ray equipment to capture high-quality radiographs.
- Performing intra-oral procedures, including suture removal and placing matrix bands.
- Educating patients on proper oral hygiene and dental decay prevention.
- Maintaining strict sanitation standards for all clinical equipment.
Qualifications and Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must demonstrate a blend of clinical skill and administrative competency.
| Grade Level | Education/Experience Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-3 | 6 months general experience or 1-year accredited program |
| GS-4 | 6 months specialized experience or 2-year accredited program |
| GS-5 | 1 year specialized experience or 4-year accredited program |
All candidates must be U.S. Citizens and possess current radiology certification. Failure to provide necessary licenses or transcripts will result in an ineligible status.
Salary and Benefits
The starting salary ranges from $36,464 to $52,957 depending on your experience level and qualifications. As a federal employee, you benefit from a structured, secure environment that values professional development and offers steady career progression.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limits: Your resume must be two pages or less. Submissions exceeding this limit will not be considered.
- Be Specific: Quantify your experience by listing hours per week and exact timeframes.
- Include Documentation: Always attach your transcripts and professional certifications at the time of submission.
Working as a Dental Assistant at Fort Drum is an excellent path for professionals seeking a meaningful career in the public sector. With a clear promotion path and the chance to support the military community, this is a prime opportunity for motivated clinical professionals. Apply today to secure your future with the Defense Health Agency.
Why This Dental Assistant Job Matters
Launch your healthcare career at Fort Drum! Join the Defense Health Agency as a Dental Assistant and support our nation's heroes while building a stable, rewarding federal career.
Dental Assistant Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking dedicated individuals to join the Stone Dental Clinic team at Fort Drum, New York. This developmental role offers a unique opportunity to grow within the federal healthcare system, starting at the GS-3, GS-4, or GS-5 level with a clear path for non-competitive promotion. You will provide critical chair-side support to dental specialists, ensuring high-quality care for uniformed service members and their families.
Requirements for Dental Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must possess relevant experience or qualifying dental education.
- Must meet radiology certification standards as required by Public Law 97-35.
- Must submit a copy of your license or certification to remain eligible.
- Resume must be two pages or less.
- May be subject to a one-year trial or probationary period.
- Must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration (if applicable).
- Must successfully pass a drug test.
Preferred Qualifications for Dental Assistant
- Prior experience in a professional dental office setting.
- Completion of an American Dental Association accredited dental assistant or hygiene program.
- Proficiency in chair-side assistance, including charting and impression taking.
- Active certification in radiology procedures.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal career advancement opportunities.
- ✓Competitive salary packages with locality adjustments.
- ✓Comprehensive federal benefits eligibility.
- ✓Professional development and clinical training.
- ✓Work-life balance within a structured military health environment.
💡 How to Apply Dental Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dental Assistant Job
- Log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, highlighting your specialized experience.
- Gather your educational transcripts and professional certifications/licenses.
- Click the apply button to launch the online questionnaire.
- Complete the online application and verify all required documentation is uploaded.
- Submit your application package before the 11:59 PM EST closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to two pages; any longer and your application will be rejected.
- Be specific about your hours worked per week and exact employment dates.
- Avoid acronyms; ensure your clinical experience is easy for HR specialists to understand.
- Upload your certification/license documents immediately to avoid disqualification.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I negotiate my salary?
Yes, salary negotiation is available for those who are new to Federal employment.
What if my education is from a foreign country?
You must provide an evaluation from a private organization specializing in the interpretation of foreign education programs to demonstrate equivalency.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an on-site position located at the Stone Dental Clinic in Fort Drum, New York.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs are not authorized for this position.
Can I apply if I don't have a degree?
Yes, you can qualify through a combination of general dental experience and education.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency is an integrated healthcare system responsible for the worldwide delivery of medical, dental, and pharmacy programs for military personnel and their families. By working with the DHA, you become part of a mission-driven organization dedicated to clinical excellence and operational readiness.