Launch Your Career as a Dental Assistant with the VA in Knoxville
Are you a dedicated dental professional looking to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have served our country? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring for a Fee Basis Dental Assistant in Knoxville, Tennessee. This position offers a unique blend of clinical responsibility and the opportunity to be part of a mission-driven healthcare organization.
Job Responsibilities
As a Dental Assistant, you will act as a critical member of the dental care team. Your responsibilities will include:
- Clinical Support: Assisting dentists during restorative, surgical, endodontic, and periodontal procedures.
- Dental Imaging: Exposing and processing high-quality dental images, including standard and specialty formats like cone beam.
- Infection Control: Managing the sterilization of instruments and ensuring the dental operatory meets strict hygiene standards.
- Patient Education: Explaining treatment plans and postoperative care to patients.
- Administrative Tasks: Managing patient scheduling, updating electronic records, and coordinating with the dental laboratory.
Requirements
Candidates must meet the following baseline requirements to be considered:
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Completion of a 1-year CODA-accredited dental program or 6 months of professional experience.
- Certification to perform dental radiology (42 CFR Part 75 standards).
- Proficiency in English.
- Ability to pass a background security investigation.
Requirements Comparison Table
| Requirement Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Education | 1-Year CODA Program or Equivalent Experience |
| Certification | Radiology Certification (42 CFR Part 75) |
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Health Requirement | Annual Influenza Vaccination |
Salary and Compensation
This position utilizes a fee-based compensation structure. The pay is set at $35.00 per unit of service, with an annual earning limitation of $70,000.
Benefits
Working for the VA provides more than just a paycheck. You gain the satisfaction of serving a mission of national importance and the opportunity to work alongside esteemed clinical professionals in a collaborative, supportive environment.
Application Tips
To ensure your application stands out, follow these tips:
- Use the Right Template: Download and use the VA-standard clinical resume document found on their career site.
- Be Precise: Do not leave gaps in your work history. Clearly define your experience in dental imaging and sterilization.
- Upload All Documents: Missing your radiology certification or transcripts will lead to an incomplete application.
If you are a compassionate professional ready to contribute your skills to a noble cause, the VA wants to hear from you. Apply to join our Knoxville team today and help us provide the care our Veterans deserve.
Why This Dental Assistant(Fee Basis) Job Matters
Elevate your dental career by supporting those who served our nation as a Fee Basis Dental Assistant in the scenic Knoxville area.
Dental Assistant(Fee Basis) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a skilled Dental Assistant to join our team in Knoxville, Tennessee. This unique, fee-based position supports our mission to provide world-class, compassionate healthcare to our nation's Veterans. You will play a vital role in our dental department, assisting dentists with a variety of procedures while ensuring high-quality, patient-centered care. This is a temporary appointment (not to exceed two years) that offers a rewarding way to contribute to the Whole Health System of the VA.
Requirements for Dental Assistant(Fee Basis)
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific exceptions apply).
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Successful completion of a 1-year CODA-accredited dental assistant program OR six months of relevant experience.
- Certification in radiologic procedures meeting 42 CFR Part 75 standards.
- Subject to background and security investigations.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Dental Assistant(Fee Basis)
- Certification by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
- Experience in digital dental imaging and electronic dental record management.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive fee-based compensation model.
- ✓Professional development within the VA Healthcare system.
- ✓Opportunity to work in an HRO-focused, team-based environment.
- ✓Access to VA career resources and training.
💡 How to Apply Dental Assistant(Fee Basis) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dental Assistant(Fee Basis) Job
- Review the full job announcement on the USAJobs portal.
- Prepare your resume, including the required VA-standard clinical resume document.
- Gather necessary documentation, including your radiology certification and transcripts.
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Complete the online questionnaire through the provided application link.
- Submit your full application package before the deadline of September 30, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—do not leave room for assumptions regarding your experience.
- Use the standard clinical resume document template provided on the VA Careers website.
- Ensure all certifications, especially those related to radiology, are clearly documented.
- Double-check your application for omissions to avoid disqualification.
- Apply well before the closing date to avoid technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a 'Fee Basis' appointment mean?
It is an excepted, temporary appointment where providers are compensated based on the services performed rather than a standard hourly tour of duty.
Is DANB certification required?
It is not strictly required for the position but is considered highly desirable for applicants.
What if my ID is not REAL ID compliant?
Effective May 7, 2025, non-compliant state IDs or driver's licenses cannot be used for employment verification. Ensure you have an acceptable form of identification.
How long is the appointment?
This is a temporary appointment not to exceed two years.
Are there relocation benefits?
No, relocation assistance or permanent change of station (PCS) is not authorized for this role.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs is dedicated to fulfilling the promise to care for those who have served in our nation's military. The VA Midsouth Healthcare Network utilizes a 'Whole Health' model, focusing on the mental, physical, and emotional well-being of Veterans. Working at a VA facility means joining a High Reliability Organization (HRO) that prioritizes safety, patient satisfaction, and professional excellence.