Launch Your Career as a Dental Assistant with the VA in Oklahoma City
The Oklahoma City VA Healthcare System is currently recruiting motivated individuals for Dental Assistant positions. This is an exceptional opportunity to join a mission-driven organization where clinical excellence meets compassionate service. If you are passionate about oral health and want to serve those who have served our country, we invite you to explore this career path.
Job Responsibilities
As a Dental Assistant, you will act as a key member of the dental care team. Core duties include:
- Setting up operatories and surgical suites for planned procedures.
- Assisting dentists chairside during restorative, surgical, and periodontal treatments.
- Managing infection control and sterilization processes.
- Capturing diagnostic dental images.
- Providing patient education on oral hygiene and preventive care.
- Maintaining dental equipment and clinical supplies.
Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet the following baseline standards:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Proficiency in English.
- Completion of a CODA-accredited 1-year dental program OR six months of relevant experience.
- Meeting radiological certification requirements (Dental Radiation Health and Safety).
Grade Level Comparison Table
| Grade Level | Requirements Focus |
|---|---|
| GS-3 | Entry-level, meeting basic educational/experience requirements. |
| GS-4 | One year of experience or 2 years of post-high school education. |
| GS-5 | Four-year degree or equivalent experience at GS-4 level. |
| GS-6 | Full performance level; advanced clinical skills. |
Salary and Benefits
Employees enjoy a competitive compensation package:
- Salary Range: $36,464 - $69,934 per year.
- Paid Time Off: 37-50 days per year combined.
- Retirement: Pension plan + 401K matching up to 5%.
- Parental Leave: Up to 12 weeks of paid leave.
- Childcare Subsidy: Potential for up to 25% reimbursement for qualifying costs.
How to Apply
- Review the full job announcement on the USAJobs portal.
- Ensure your resume contains all required specific details (dates, hours, duties).
- Use the mandatory Clinical Resume document provided by the VA.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire accurately.
Join a team that values your professional growth and personal life balance. The Oklahoma City VA offers an ideal setting to build a career in clinical dentistry while serving our nation's Veterans. Apply today and start your journey with the VHA.
Why This Dental Assistant Job Matters
Embark on a meaningful healthcare career in Oklahoma City, where your dedication directly supports those who served our nation. Join the VHA team today!
Dental Assistant Job Overview
The Oklahoma City VA Healthcare System is actively seeking dedicated Dental Assistants to join our clinical team. This position offers a unique balance of professional challenge and personal well-being, located in a vibrant city known for its rich culture, outdoor diversity, and family-friendly environment. We are hiring multiple candidates to assist our providers in delivering state-of-the-art, patient-centered dental care to our Veterans.
Requirements for Dental Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Completion of a 1-year CODA-accredited dental assistant program OR six months of qualifying experience
- Certification of radiologic competence (Dental Radiation Health and Safety)
- Subject to background and security investigation
- Must participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Subject to pre-employment drug testing
Preferred Qualifications for Dental Assistant
- Certification by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
- Experience within the last 2 years
- Current certification in Basic Life Support (BLS)
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓13-26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave per year
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays
- ✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees
- ✓Child care subsidy programs
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan
- ✓Federal 401K with employer matching contributions
💡 How to Apply Dental Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dental Assistant Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that includes full job title, duties, start/end dates, and work hours.
- Download and complete the required one-page Clinical Resume document.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including transcripts and certifications.
- Submit your application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; do not leave the hiring team to make assumptions about your previous experience.
- Ensure all dates include both month and year.
- Clearly indicate if your past roles were full-time or part-time.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS dashboard.
- Verify that your uploaded documents meet the specific naming and format requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an in-person, clinical role based at the Oklahoma City VA Healthcare System.
What is the education requirement?
Candidates must have completed a 1-year CODA-accredited dental assistant program or possess at least six months of relevant clinical experience.
What is the pay scale for this position?
The position is graded from GS-3 to GS-6, with an annual salary range of $36,464 to $69,934 depending on qualifications.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) provides world-class care to our nation's heroes. The Oklahoma City VA Healthcare System serves over 81,000 Veterans in a 192-bed facility that blends cutting-edge technology with research and education. Working here means more than just a job; it means contributing to a legacy of care that honors President Lincoln’s promise to those who have served in the military.