Launch Your Healthcare Career as a Dental Assistant at Dyess AFB
Are you a dedicated dental professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Dental Assistant to join the 7th Medical Group at Dyess Air Force Base in Texas. This position offers a unique chance to work within an integrated military healthcare system, providing essential dental support to the men and women who serve our country.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will work closely with dentists to provide comprehensive oral healthcare. Daily duties include:
- Assisting with complex, lengthy, and non-routine clinical procedures.
- Monitoring and recording patient vital signs and medical histories.
- Performing diagnostic dental radiographic work.
- Preparing preliminary impressions and constructing clinical dental components.
- Ensuring the clinical workspace remains sterile, orderly, and fully stocked with necessary supplies.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Applicants must be U.S. Citizens.
- Certification: You must hold a valid Radiology Certification that meets 42 CFR Part 75 standards.
- Experience: One year of specialized experience at the GS-04 level or equivalent.
- Education: Completion of a four-year dental assistant or hygiene program with specific coursework in radiation biology and physics may be substituted for experience.
Comparison: Standard Clinical vs. Military Dental Support
| Feature | Private Practice | Military Dental (DHA) |
|---|---|---|
| Patient Base | General Public | Service Members/Families |
| Mission Focus | Profit/Patient Volume | Operational Readiness |
| Environment | Standard Clinical | Integrated Military System |
| Benefits | Varies | Federal Health/Retirement |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $40,736 to $52,957 per year, inclusive of locality pay adjustments based on the Texas market.
Benefits
Federal employment with the DHA comes with an robust package:
- Health Coverage: Access to multiple comprehensive insurance plans.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous paid vacation and sick leave.
- Retirement: Access to the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Growth: Continuous training and professional development opportunities within the DoD.
Application Tips
- Respect the Limits: Your resume must be two pages or less. Overly long resumes will not be considered.
- Clarity is Key: Use plain language. Do not rely on jargon or internal acronyms that a hiring manager might not recognize.
- Detail Your Work: Ensure your resume clearly states your hours worked per week for every position listed to confirm your experience meets the one-year requirement.
Serving as a Dental Assistant at Dyess AFB is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the readiness of our armed forces. If you meet the qualifications and are ready for a rewarding career in federal healthcare, we encourage you to submit your application package before the September 8, 2026, deadline.
Why This Dental Assistant Job Matters
Launch your healthcare career at Dyess AFB with a vital role that supports the dental readiness of our service members and their families.
Dental Assistant Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a motivated Dental Assistant to join the 7th Medical Group at Dyess Air Force Base in Texas. In this role, you will serve as a key member of a clinical team, providing critical chairside support, managing dental records, performing radiographic procedures, and maintaining high standards of instrument sterilization. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to the mission of providing world-class medical and dental care to the Joint Force in a dynamic, mission-focused environment.
Requirements for Dental Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Must possess valid Radiology Certification in compliance with federal law.
- One year of specialized experience performing chairside assistance, charting, and operating X-ray equipment, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Successful completion of a four-year dental assistant or hygiene program (if qualifying by education).
- Must be able to successfully pass a drug test.
- Ability to complete a one-year probationary period.
Preferred Qualifications for Dental Assistant
- Demonstrated ability to perform complex, non-routine dental procedures.
- Proficiency in maintaining and inventorying dental surgical instruments and clinical supplies.
- Experience with electronic dental charting and patient record management.
- Strong communication skills for patient education and medical history recording.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- ✓Competitive salary with locality pay adjustments.
- ✓Generous federal retirement and pension plans.
- ✓Paid vacation time, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and career progression within the DoD.
💡 How to Apply Dental Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dental Assistant Job
- Log in or create an account at USAJOBS.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less, detailing your relevant work history and clinical competencies.
- Complete the required online application questionnaire.
- Upload all necessary supporting documentation, including transcripts (if applicable) and professional certifications.
- Verify that your application package is complete and submitted before the closing date of September 8, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise; any document exceeding the two-page limit will be automatically excluded.
- Be specific regarding your clinical experience—include employer names, job titles, and hours worked per week.
- Ensure your Radiology Certification is clearly documented to meet federal requirements.
- Submit early to allow time for the system's virus scan process to clear your documents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the specialized experience required for this role?
You need one year of experience in chairside assistance, including intra-oral procedures, charting, taking impressions, and operating X-ray equipment.
Is a security clearance required for this position?
No, this position is classified as Non-sensitive (NS)/Low Risk, though a drug test is required.
Can I substitute education for the required experience?
Yes, a combination of education and experience can be used if it satisfies 100% of the qualification requirements.
What happens after I submit my application?
You will receive an automated email acknowledgment. HR will review your documents for eligibility, and selected candidates will move forward in the ranking process.
Do I need a security clearance?
No, this position is non-sensitive, though a standard suitability assessment and drug test are required.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency is a vital component of the Department of Defense. As a strategic partner, the Agency ensures that over 9.5 million uniformed service members, retirees, and their families have access to high-quality medical and dental care. By joining the 7th Medical Group, you become part of an inspired team committed to building readiness and ensuring optimal health outcomes, anywhere the Joint Force operates.