Providing Excellence in Dental Care for Our Veterans: Join the VA Team in Harlingen
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class health care to the men and women who have served in our nation's military. The Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System is currently seeking a talented and compassionate Dentist to join their clinical team in Harlingen, Texas. This position offers a unique blend of professional challenge, stability, and the deeply rewarding experience of supporting the Veteran community.
Job Responsibilities
As a staff Dentist, you will be responsible for delivering comprehensive oral health services. Key duties include:
- Diagnostic and Restorative Care: Performing examinations, diagnosing pathological conditions, and providing routine to complex restorative dentistry.
- Surgical Procedures: Conducting simple and complex extractions, alveoloplasty, and other surgical interventions.
- Prosthodontics: Delivering prosthetic solutions including immediate, full, and partial dentures, as well as crowns and fixed bridgework.
- Documentation and Compliance: Maintaining meticulous records in the Computerized Patient Record System (CPRS) and adhering to all federal and state regulations.
- Patient Education: Advising Veterans and their families on preventive care and long-term oral health management.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must demonstrate a strong academic and clinical background:
- Education: A DDS or DMD degree from an accredited school of dentistry.
- Licensure: A full, unrestricted license in any U.S. jurisdiction.
- Experience: Successful completion of a dental residency program or equivalent experience treating medically compromised patients.
- Physical Standards: Ability to perform standard dental clinical tasks including standing, reaching, and finger dexterity.
Salary Overview
This position offers a highly competitive salary consistent with federal pay scales for Title 38 health care professionals.
| Position Level | Annual Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Dentist (Regular FT) | $200,000 - $240,000 |
Benefits
Working for the VA comes with a robust total rewards package designed to support the physical, financial, and professional health of staff members:
- Federal Health Insurance coverage.
- Retirement savings options, including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Generous paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- Malpractice liability protection under the Federal Tort Claims Act.
Application Tips
To stand out, ensure your application package is complete and formatted correctly. Always prioritize using the specific VA clinical resume template where requested, and be sure to clearly document any hospital-based dental experience, as this is a preferred qualification for the role.
If you are a motivated dental professional seeking to provide high-quality care in a collaborative, mission-driven environment, the VA in Harlingen offers an exceptional career path. Apply by August 20, 2026, to ensure your materials are considered for this vital role.
Why This Dentist (Regular Ft) Job Matters
Transform lives by providing expert dental care to those who have served our nation. Join the VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System and make a tangible difference in the lives of our Veterans.
Dentist (Regular Ft) Job Overview
The Veterans Affairs Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Dentist to provide comprehensive oral health services in Harlingen, Texas. In this role, you will work within a dynamic, patient-centered ambulatory care environment, supporting a diverse population of Veterans through high-quality diagnostic, restorative, and surgical dental procedures.
Requirements for Dentist (Regular Ft)
- Possess a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from an accredited institution approved by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
- Hold a current, full, and unrestricted license to practice dentistry in any U.S. State, Territory, Commonwealth, or the District of Columbia.
- Completion of a residency program in general practice, specialty, or equivalent clinical experience treating medically compromised patients.
- Must be proficient in both spoken and written English.
- Must successfully pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Must be a U.S. Citizen (non-citizens may be appointed under specific circumstances).
- Must be able to pass a background/security investigation and initial drug screening.
Preferred Qualifications for Dentist (Regular Ft)
- Five or more years of professional experience in General Dentistry.
- Prior experience as a member of a hospital medical staff, particularly in a hospital-based dental care setting.
- Demonstrated ability to adapt care plans based on patient age, health status, and specific physical requirements.
- Proven surgical competence in various dental procedures documented within the last 12 months.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance packages
- ✓Retirement planning options
- ✓Paid time off and federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Malpractice protection under federal law
- ✓Supportive work-life balance
💡 How to Apply Dentist (Regular Ft) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dentist (Regular Ft) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download and complete the required clinical resume document provided by the VA.
- Upload your resume, clinical documents, and any applicable transcripts or licenses.
- Complete the required occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of August 20, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your responses in the occupational questionnaire are clear, specific, and accurate.
- Upload the specific clinical resume template provided by the VA to the two-page restricted document field.
- Double-check that all required supporting documents, such as your license and DD-214 (if applicable), are attached before submitting.
- Review your application status periodically through your USAJOBS portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is relocation assistance provided for this position?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
What is the work schedule for this role?
The position operates Monday through Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an onsite position located in Harlingen, Texas, and is not eligible for telework.
Is there an opportunity for career advancement?
While this specific role has a fixed grade, the VA provides vast opportunities for lateral moves and growth across the nationwide system.
Do I need to be a veteran to apply?
No, the position is open to the public. However, eligible veterans may receive hiring preference.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Texas Valley Coastal Bend Health Care System (VATVCBHCS) is a dynamic organization that manages a vast network of outpatient clinics, including locations in Harlingen, Corpus Christi, Brownsville, Laredo, and McAllen. Serving over 53,000 Veterans with an annual volume of 612,000 outpatient visits, the system serves as a hub for innovation in primary care, geriatrics, specialty medicine, and dental health.
Affiliated with the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley Medical School, the system provides a robust learning environment for residents and health professional trainees, making it an excellent choice for clinicians dedicated to teaching and evidence-based practice.