Become a Dental Hygienist at the Washington DC VA Medical Center
If you are a licensed dental hygienist looking for a career that combines clinical excellence with a sense of purpose, the Department of Veterans Affairs invites you to apply. We are currently recruiting for a Dental Hygienist to join our team at the Washington DC VA Medical Center. This position offers a competitive salary, robust federal benefits, and the unique opportunity to provide high-quality care to our nation's heroes.
Job Responsibilities
As a Dental Hygienist, you will serve as a key member of the dental care team. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Performing oral prophylaxis, scaling, and root planning.
- Taking diagnostic-quality radiographs and ensuring radiation safety.
- Providing patient education on oral hygiene, periodontal disease, and systemic health.
- Managing dental recall systems and assisting dentists during procedures.
- Maintaining rigorous infection control standards.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess an Associate degree or higher from an accredited dental hygiene program.
- Hold a current, unrestricted license to practice.
- Successfully complete a background investigation.
Grade Level Qualifications
| Level | Experience/Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-05 | Entry Level / Basic Requirements |
| GS-06 | 1 year experience at GS-05 level |
| GS-07 | 1 year experience at GS-06 level |
| GS-08 | 1 year experience at GS-07 level |
| GS-09 | 1 year experience at GS-08 level |
Salary Overview
This position is compensated within the range of $50,716 to $99,903 per year, depending on qualifications and grade level determination upon hiring.
Benefits
Joining the VA provides more than just a paycheck. You will benefit from:
- Extensive federal leave programs.
- Retirement plans, including a 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Comprehensive health and life insurance coverage.
- A workplace culture dedicated to 'Whole Health' and employee wellness.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Always use the standard VA clinical resume document provided in the announcement.
- Be Specific: Detail your clinical accomplishments, including specific dental procedures you have mastered.
- Stay Organized: Track your application status directly through your USAJOBS account.
Serving our veterans is a noble pursuit that requires skilled professionals. If you are ready to advance your career while making a tangible impact on the lives of those who served, apply today via the USAJOBS portal.
Why This Dental Hygienist Job Matters
Advance your clinical career while serving our nation's heroes. Join the Washington DC VA Medical Center as a Dental Hygienist and provide essential, life-changing oral health care to veterans.
Dental Hygienist Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Dental Hygienist to provide comprehensive oral health services in Washington, D.C. This role allows you to work at the full performance level, delivering preventive care, scaling, root planning, and patient education. You will play a vital role in the health and wellness of our veterans, including those participating in the Homeless Veterans Dental Program, within a supportive, multidisciplinary team environment.
Requirements for Dental Hygienist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Associate degree or higher from an accredited dental hygiene program (CODA accredited or equivalent)
- Current, full, and unrestricted dental hygiene license in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia
- Successful completion of an accredited radiologic procedures course
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Ability to pass a background and security investigation
- Must complete a 1 or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Dental Hygienist
- Experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-05 through GS-08 depending on target level)
- Knowledge of oral pathology and systemic health interrelationships
- Proficiency in advanced radiographic exposure techniques
- Demonstrated ability to manage dental recall systems and patient education programs
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and pay progression
- ✓Annual leave accrual based on federal service years
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options
- ✓Retirement benefits including pension and TSP contributions
- ✓Access to Whole Health wellness initiatives
- ✓Professional development and clinical training opportunities
💡 How to Apply Dental Hygienist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dental Hygienist Job
- Log in to or create your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your resume and ensure it meets the specific VA documentation requirements.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documents: License, Transcript, and SF-50 (if applicable).
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly details your clinical experience, including volunteer work.
- Use the specific VA clinical resume template provided in the job announcement to streamline your application.
- Double-check that your license information is current and active.
- Submit all required documents, including transcripts, at the time of application to avoid disqualification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an in-person, on-site clinical position at the Washington DC VA Medical Center.
Can I apply if I am not yet certified in radiologic procedures?
Non-certified applicants may be eligible for a temporary appointment under specific conditions, but certification is generally required for full performance and advancement.
What is the work schedule?
This is a full-time position with a typical schedule of Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Are there relocation incentives?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in the military and their families. We pride ourselves on our 'I CARE' values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.