Advance Your Career as a Supervisory Dental Assistant with the Indian Health Service
Are you a dental professional looking to combine your clinical expertise with leadership responsibilities? The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a motivated and skilled Supervisory Dental Assistant (Expanded Function) to join our team at the Fort Yuma Service Unit in Winterhaven, California.
Job Responsibilities
As a Supervisory Dental Assistant, your role is multifaceted, focusing on both clinical excellence and operational management:
- Supervision: Manage dental assisting staff, assign workloads, and evaluate performance.
- Chair-side Assistance: Support general dentists and specialists during complex dental procedures.
- Clinical Operations: Instruct staff on new equipment, techniques, and infection control standards.
- Administrative Duties: Oversee the maintenance of clinic records and assist in planning clinic needs based on data.
Comparison: Standard Dental Assistant vs. Expanded Function
| Feature | Standard Dental Assistant | Expanded Function Dental Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Support | General chair-side assistance | Advanced intra-oral procedures |
| Scope of Practice | Basic support duties | Extended diagnostic and restorative support |
| Training Required | Basic certification | Specialized expanded function training |
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet specific criteria:
- Education & Training: Completion of a program in expanded function dental procedures.
- Certification: Must meet radiologic credentialing standards per 42 CFR Part 75.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-06 equivalent level.
- Background: Must pass a thorough federal background check.
Salary Overview
The salary for this position ranges from $58,827 to $76,476 per year, depending on experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Employees of the IHS enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Competitive federal pay scale.
- Opportunity for recruitment or relocation incentives.
- Structured annual leave progression.
- Meaningful work that directly impacts community health outcomes.
Application Tips
- Focus on the First Two Pages: Subject matter experts only review the first two pages of your resume to verify your qualifications.
- Documentation is Key: Ensure all transcripts and certifications are uploaded before the deadline.
- Stay Current: Use your USAJOBS account to track your application status.
This role offers a unique opportunity to lead, grow, and serve. If you are passionate about dental health and leadership, apply now to join the Indian Health Service team in Winterhaven.
Why This Supervisory Dental Assistant (Expanded Function) Job Matters
Take your dental career to the next level by leading clinical excellence with the Indian Health Service in beautiful Winterhaven, California.
Supervisory Dental Assistant (Expanded Function) Job Overview
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is seeking a skilled Supervisory Dental Assistant (Expanded Function) to join the Fort Yuma Service Unit. In this vital role, you will provide clinical leadership, supervise dental assisting staff, and ensure the delivery of high-quality dental care to American Indian and Alaska Native populations. This position balances administrative oversight with direct chair-side assistance, serving as a pillar of the dental health team in a culturally enriching environment.
Requirements for Supervisory Dental Assistant (Expanded Function)
- U.S. Citizenship.
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the GS-06 level.
- Completion of one year of specialized training, course work, or preceptorship in expanded function dental intra-oral procedures.
- Must meet radiologic certification standards per 42 CFR Part 75.
- Ability to pass a federal background investigation.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Completion of a one-year supervisory probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Dental Assistant (Expanded Function)
- Experience in a lead role within a dental clinical setting.
- Proven background in dental department infection control policies and training.
- Demonstrated ability in community dental outreach and triage.
- Strong administrative skills for managing clinical records and staff schedules.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities.
- ✓Annual leave accrual based on federal service tenure.
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives.
- ✓Opportunity to work within a dynamic interdisciplinary healthcare team.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Dental Assistant (Expanded Function) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Dental Assistant (Expanded Function) Job
- Create or update your account on the USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a resume that clearly outlines duties, hours worked per week, and accomplishments.
- Complete the online eligibility questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including transcripts and certification proof.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of July 24, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume focuses on the first two pages, as these are the primary documents reviewed by subject matter experts.
- Be specific regarding your specialized experience; use quantifiable metrics where possible.
- Review your application thoroughly to ensure all required forms, such as BIA-4432 (if claiming Indian preference), are included.
- Check your USAJOBS account regularly for status updates and notification of any required interviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
What level of education is required for this position?
Applicants must demonstrate completion of one year of acceptable coursework or training specifically designed to equip them with the skills required to perform expanded function intra-oral procedures.
Is a background check required?
Yes. This position requires the successful completion of a federal background investigation, as it involves contact with and control over Indian children.
Job from Indian Health Service
The Indian Health Service is a nationwide leader in healthcare for American Indians and Alaska Natives. Our mission is to raise the physical, mental, social, and spiritual health of American Indians and Alaska Natives to the highest level. By joining our team, you become part of a professional, interdisciplinary group dedicated to compassionate care and creative problem-solving.