Become a Dental Laboratory Technician at the VA Portland Health Care System
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class health care to those who have served our nation. As a Dental Laboratory Technician, you are a critical part of that mission. By crafting high-quality prosthetics and appliances, you help restore the oral health and confidence of our Veterans. We are currently seeking a motivated professional to join our team in Portland, Oregon.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will handle a diverse range of tasks, including:
- Fabricating precious metal crowns, ceramic jackets, and veneers.
- Constructing prosthetic appliances for jaw fractures and missing teeth.
- Using articulators to ensure proper occlusion and function.
- Maintaining and repairing existing dental prosthetics.
- Managing laboratory inventory and ensuring equipment safety.
Requirements
To be eligible for this role, you must meet several key standards, including:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 level.
- Completion of a security background check.
Comparison of Key Aspects
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position Title | Dental Laboratory Technician |
| Location | Portland, OR |
| Salary | $60,212 - $78,272 |
| Job Series | 0683 |
| Closing Date | 07/22/2026 |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $60,212 to $78,272, depending on experience and qualifications, commensurate with the federal GS-08 pay scale.
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides substantial benefits, including access to health insurance, a robust retirement plan, and generous leave policies. Furthermore, you will enjoy the satisfaction of knowing your daily labor directly improves the lives of Veterans.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, ensure your resume is concise (max 2 pages) and clearly documents your relevant experience. Tailor your language to align with the duties listed in the official announcement, and do not forget to include the hours worked per week for each listed job.
The Dental Laboratory Technician role at the VA Portland is a unique opportunity to combine your technical artistry with meaningful public service. If you are ready to contribute your skills to an elite healthcare team, apply today via the USAJOBS portal.
Why This Dental Laboratory Technician Job Matters
Join the VA Portland Health Care System as a Dental Laboratory Technician and play a vital role in restoring smiles and supporting the oral health of our nation's heroes.
Dental Laboratory Technician Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a highly skilled Dental Laboratory Technician to join the team in Portland, Oregon. This position is essential to the delivery of complex dental prosthetics and restorative care for our Veteran population. You will work within a dynamic environment, utilizing advanced technical skills to craft crowns, bridges, and dentures that directly impact patient quality of life.
Requirements for Dental Laboratory Technician
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-07 grade level
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Completion of a 1-year probationary or 2-year trial period
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
Preferred Qualifications for Dental Laboratory Technician
- Extensive experience with all phases of removable prosthetic design and fabrication
- Proficiency in fixed prosthodontics
- Proven ability to manage dental laboratory equipment and inventory effectively
- Demonstrated skill in training and mentoring students or junior staff
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and pay structure
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans (FERS) with matching contributions
- ✓Generous paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Mission-driven work environment dedicated to serving Veterans
💡 How to Apply Dental Laboratory Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dental Laboratory Technician Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Review the full vacancy announcement thoroughly.
- Prepare a resume that is two pages or fewer.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including SF-50s (if applicable) and proof of eligibility.
- Submit your application before the closing date of 07/22/2026.
- Complete the required online USA Hire assessments if prompted via email.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly lists job titles, duties, and specific dates (month/year) for every role.
- Quantify your experience by including the hours worked per week.
- Upload your resume as a PDF to maintain formatting and page limits.
- Utilize the USAJOBS resume builder to ensure your documents meet all federal requirements.
- Double-check your application status on the portal frequently after submission.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the key responsibility of this role?
The Dental Laboratory Technician is primarily responsible for fabricating complex dental prosthetics, including crowns, bridges, and dentures, based on prescriptions from staff dentists.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position located at the VA Portland Medical Center in Portland, Oregon.
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: No, relocation incentives are not authorized for this position.*
Are there educational substitutions for this grade?
*A: No, education cannot be substituted for the required specialized experience at this grade level.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Portland Health Care System (VAPORHCS) is a premier teaching and healthcare facility serving Oregon and Southwestern Washington. Our interdisciplinary team manages everything from primary care to complex specialty services. Joining our dental department means working in a facility that values compassion, excellence, and the well-being of the Veteran population.