Embark on a Meaningful Career as a Dental Assistant with the VA

Are you a dental professional looking for a career that offers both stability and a sense of purpose? The VA Salem Health Care System is currently accepting applications for a Dental Assistant to join our clinical team. This role is more than just a job; it is a commitment to serving those who have protected our country.

Job Responsibilities

As a Dental Assistant, you will act as a vital member of the dental care team. Your daily responsibilities will include:

Patient Care: Assisting dentists in various phases of general and specialized dentistry using four-handed techniques.
Clinical Support: Preparing operatories, ensuring sterile instrument handling, and maintaining equipment.
Imaging: Capturing and processing high-quality dental radiographs.
Administrative Duties: Managing patient records through electronic systems and maintaining HIPAA compliance.

Core Tasks Comparison

Feature	Entry Level (GS-3/4)	Full Performance (GS-6)
Scope of Practice	Foundational clinical assistance	Advanced restorative and surgical support
Radiography	Basic capture	Standard and specialty formats (CBCT)
Patient Education	Basic guidance	Independent procedural education

Requirements

To be considered for this position, applicants must be U.S. Citizens and satisfy basic English proficiency requirements. You must possess at least six months of relevant clinical experience or have completed a CODA-accredited dental assistant program. Candidates must also meet national standards for radiologic competence.

Salary and Benefits

The position offers a competitive salary range of $35,605 to $64,800 annually. Beyond the paycheck, the VA offers a world-class federal benefits package including:

Paid Time Off: Between 13-26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave.
Retirement: A robust federal pension plan and 401K-style Thrift Savings Plan.
Insurance: Access to comprehensive health, dental, and life insurance plans.
Work-Life Balance: Compressed schedule options including every other Friday off.

Application Tips

Success in federal hiring depends on detail. Ensure you use the standard VA clinical resume template to capture your experience accurately. Be sure to highlight your knowledge of infection control and your ability to work with dental imaging software in your application.

Joining the VA team in Salem offers a stable career path with significant opportunities for professional development. If you are passionate about providing high-quality care to Veterans, we encourage you to submit your application today.

Why This Dental Assistant Job Matters

Launch a rewarding career in oral healthcare by supporting those who served our nation at the Salem VA Medical Center.

Dental Assistant Job Overview

The VA Salem Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Dental Assistant to join our clinical team. In this role, you will provide critical support to dentists during direct patient care, manage clinical operatories, and ensure administrative accuracy. This position is based in the vibrant community of Salem, Virginia, offering a unique blend of professional growth, job security, and the chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our Veterans.

Requirements for Dental Assistant

U.S. Citizenship.
Proficiency in spoken and written English.
At least 6 months of relevant experience or a 1-year CODA-accredited dental assistant program.
Must meet radiologic certification standards (or obtain within a specified timeframe).
Pass a pre-employment physical and drug screening.
Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Background investigation and security check clearance.

Preferred Qualifications for Dental Assistant

Certification from the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).
Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
Experience in specialized dental fields including endodontics, periodontics, and implant dentistry.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary with step increases
✓Generous paid leave (up to 37-50 days total including holidays/sick time)
✓Comprehensive health, vision, dental, and life insurance
✓Federal pension and 401K-style retirement plan with matching
✓Paid parental leave
✓Potential child care subsidies for qualifying families

💡 How to Apply Dental Assistant Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Dental Assistant Job

Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
Prepare your resume using the required VA clinical template.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Upload all necessary supporting documents including transcripts and certifications.
Submit your application package before the closing date.

💡 General Tips

Ensure your resume clearly details your clinical experience and volunteer work.
Use the specific VA resume template provided to ensure your application is processed correctly.
Double-check that all required documents (transcripts, licenses) are uploaded to the correct fields.
Review your application status periodically through the USAJOBS portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the work schedule for this position?

The standard schedule is 7:30 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Thursday, and 7:30 am to 4:00 pm on Fridays, with every other Friday off.

Are there recruitment incentives available?

Yes, recruitment or relocation incentives may be authorized for highly qualified candidates.

Is DANB certification required?

*A: It is highly desirable but not mandatory for entry-level; however, it is required for higher-grade performance levels.*

Can I use foreign education?

*A: Yes, but you must provide a certificate of foreign equivalency with your transcripts.*

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Providing comprehensive care to millions of Veterans, the VHA is built on a mission of compassion and excellence. Working at the Salem VAMC means you are part of a facility located in the heart of the scenic Roanoke Valley, where outdoor adventure meets a thriving, historic community.