Become a Dental Hygienist at the Erie VA Medical Center
Are you a skilled Dental Hygienist looking to elevate your career while giving back to those who have served our country? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a motivated professional to join the team at the Erie VA Medical Center. This position is a unique opportunity to provide comprehensive dental care in one of the most advanced healthcare systems in the nation.
Job Responsibilities
As a Dental Hygienist, you will perform a wide range of clinical duties, including:
- Conducting preliminary dental exams and reviewing medical histories.
- Interpreting radiographs and identifying periodontal issues.
- Providing oral prophylaxis and deep scaling for both ambulatory and non-ambulatory patients.
- Educating Veterans on oral health maintenance and systemic health links.
- Assisting staff dentists with chair-side procedures when necessary.
Requirements
Candidates must meet federal requirements, including:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Licensure: A full, current, and unrestricted license in a U.S. State or territory.
- Education: An Associate degree or higher from an accredited dental hygiene program.
- Vaccination: Mandatory participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Comparison of Roles
| Feature | Standard Clinical Role | Fee Basis Role (This Position) |
|---|---|---|
| Compensation | Salary/Hourly | Based on Service/Task |
| Flexibility | Fixed Schedule | Highly Flexible |
| Purpose | Ongoing Care | Coverage/Specific Needs |
Salary Overview
This position utilizes a Fee Basis pay structure. Providers are compensated according to a predetermined fee schedule based on the specific procedures and services performed during their shift.
Benefits
While this role operates on a fee basis, you gain the prestige of working within the VA system, access to specialized training, and the satisfaction of supporting the Veteran community.
Application Tips
To succeed, ensure your resume is detailed. Clearly define your experience with dental radiography, patient education, and your ability to manage medically compromised patients. Always double-check your application for missing documents, such as licenses or transcripts, before the deadline.
If you are ready to use your clinical skills to make a real difference in the lives of Veterans, the Erie VA Medical Center is the place to be. Apply today to start your journey with the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Why This Dental Hygienist Job Matters
Serve those who served our country as a vital member of the Erie VA Medical Center’s clinical team.
Dental Hygienist Job Overview
The Erie VA Medical Center is currently recruiting a dedicated Dental Hygienist to join our clinical team. This position offers a unique Fee Basis structure, providing flexible opportunities to assist with patient care in a high-impact environment. We are looking for a professional who is passionate about delivering exceptional oral health services to our nation's Veterans.
Requirements for Dental Hygienist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current, unrestricted dental hygiene license in a U.S. State, Territory, or District of Columbia
- Associate degree or higher from an accredited dental hygiene program
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Successful completion of an accredited radiologic procedures certification program
- Ability to pass a pre-employment drug screening
- Ability to pass a background and security investigation
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Dental Hygienist
- At least one year of specialized clinical experience
- Advanced knowledge of dental hygiene procedures, complications, and treatment outcomes
- Expertise in operating dental radiography equipment and radiation safety protocols
- Proven ability to assess medically compromised patients and coordinate multidisciplinary care
- Proficiency in patient education regarding periodontal disease and systemic oral health
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Opportunity to work within the nation's largest integrated health care system
- ✓Meaningful work supporting America's Veterans
- ✓Flexible Fee Basis work schedule
- ✓Access to professional development and career advancement resources within the VA
💡 How to Apply Dental Hygienist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dental Hygienist Job
- Create or log into your account at the official USAJOBS portal.
- Review the full job questionnaire to ensure you meet all requirements.
- Prepare your resume and any required documentation, such as proof of licensure and educational transcripts.
- Submit your complete application package via the online portal before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview requests.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; clearly detail your clinical experience and how it aligns with the stated duties.
- Ensure all documentation, including your license and transcripts, is uploaded clearly and is easily readable.
- Do not assume the hiring team knows your background; explicitly list your skills and responsibilities in your work history.
- Double-check that your application is submitted well before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Fee Basis position mean?
It means compensation is based on the specific tasks or services provided according to a set fee schedule rather than a standard hourly or salaried rate.
Is this position permanent?
The role is initially expected to be a one-year appointment, with the potential to transition into an intermittent, as-needed role afterward.
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: No, relocation/recruitment incentives are not authorized for this position.*
Do I need a specific certification for x-rays?
*A: Yes, you must meet the credentialing standards for radiologic personnel as outlined in 42 C.F.R. Part 75.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Driven by the core values of Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence (I CARE), the VA is dedicated to providing world-class care to our Veterans. Working here means more than just a job; it is a commitment to the men and women who have defended our nation.