Launch Your Career as a Dental Assistant with the Montana VA

Are you a dental professional looking for a career that offers both clinical complexity and a high quality of life? The Montana VA Health Care System is looking for skilled Dental Assistants to provide compassionate care to our nation's Veterans.

Job Responsibilities

As a Dental Assistant, you will play a critical role in the clinical workflow. Your duties include:

Chairside Assisting: Supporting dentists during procedures, handling instruments, and maintaining a clear operative field.
Patient Care: Taking vital signs, performing coronal polishing, and providing post-operative education.
Imaging: Capturing diagnostic-quality dental radiographs.
Infection Control: Maintaining a sterile environment and properly processing instruments.
Clerical Support: Managing patient scheduling and electronic records.

Requirements

To qualify, you must:

Be a U.S. Citizen.
Hold a certificate/education from a CODA-accredited program or demonstrate equivalent experience.
Meet radiologic safety and certification standards.
Maintain proficiency in English.

Salary Overview

The GS-3 through GS-6 pay scale ranges from $32,435 to $59,031 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.

Grade Comparison Table

Grade Level	Key Requirement
GS-3	Basic requirements met
GS-4	1 year experience or 2 years education
GS-5	Advanced experience/competency
GS-6	Full Performance level with independent capability

Benefits

Working for the VA offers unmatched stability. Benefits include:

Retirement: Federal pension and 401K-style plans.
Leave: Up to 50 days of paid time off (leave + holidays).
Insurance: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage.
Work-Life Balance: Access to world-class outdoor recreation in Montana.

Application Tips

Ensure your application is complete by using the required standard resume template provided by the VA. Be precise when listing your clinical duties, as human resources will use these details to determine your grade level.

Join a team where your work truly matters. Apply today to help us provide state-of-the-art dental care to the men and women who have served our country.

Why This Dental Assistant Job Matters

Launch a rewarding career in dental health while honoring those who served—join the Montana VA Health Care System as a Dental Assistant.

Dental Assistant Job Overview

The Montana VA Health Care System is seeking dedicated Dental Assistants to join our team in Billings and Fort Harrison, Montana. In this role, you will perform a vital mix of chairside patient care, clinical support, and clerical duties. You will work directly with dentists to provide high-quality care to our nation's Veterans, ensuring a comfortable and professional environment. This position offers a unique opportunity to grow within the federal health system while enjoying the breathtaking lifestyle Montana has to offer.

Requirements for Dental Assistant

Must be a U.S. Citizen.
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Successful completion of a CODA-accredited dental assistant program or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Must meet radiologic certification standards (e.g., DANB Dental Radiation Health and Safety Examination).
Must be able to pass a background and security investigation.
Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
Must be able to stand or sit for extended periods and lift/carry up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications for Dental Assistant

Current certification by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).
Experience in specialized dental fields including oral surgery, endodontics, or periodontics.
Prior experience within a clinical dental setting.
Strong understanding of electronic health record systems.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Federal pension plan and 401K-style savings plan with up to 5% employer match.
✓Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance.
✓Generous leave package: 13-26 days of annual leave, 13 days of sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
✓Paid parental leave after one year of service.
✓Childcare subsidy for eligible full-time employees.
✓Opportunities for professional development and clinical growth.

💡 How to Apply Dental Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Dental Assistant Job

Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
Prepare your resume using the required standard Clinical Resume template provided by the VA.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Upload all required supporting documents, including transcripts and licenses.
Submit your application package before the deadline of August 14, 2026.

💡 General Tips

Be specific in your resume; avoid generalizations regarding your clinical experience.
Ensure your radiologic certification or credentials are clearly documented.
Double-check that you are using the mandatory Clinical Resume document format as requested.
Monitor your email for status updates after the announcement closes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary location for this job?

The positions are based at the Montana VA Health Care System, with duty stations in both Billings and Fort Harrison, Montana.

Is a dental assistant certification mandatory?

You must meet specific radiologic competence requirements to perform X-rays. While DANB certification is not strictly required for all grade levels, it is highly desirable and can support your career advancement.

Can I work remotely?

No, this is a hands-on clinical position that requires physical presence at the VA facilities.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military." The Montana VA Health Care System operates on the historic 138-acre Fort Harrison campus, providing specialized inpatient and outpatient services to the Veterans of Montana.