Launch Your Career: Dental Assistant at Coatesville VA Medical Center
Are you looking to take your dental assisting career to the next level while serving those who have served our nation? The Coatesville VA Medical Center is currently accepting applications for a full-time Dental Assistant. This role offers the chance to work in a high-impact clinical setting, contributing to the health and well-being of Veterans in Pennsylvania.
Job Responsibilities
As a Dental Assistant, you will provide critical support in the dental suite, working under the guidance of lead dental staff and treating dentists. Your daily duties will include:
- Chairside Assisting: Setting up operatories and assisting with restorative, surgical, and endodontic procedures.
- Imaging: Capturing high-quality diagnostic dental images while adhering to strict safety protocols.
- Infection Control: Maintaining sterilization standards and ensuring a safe environment for all patients.
- Patient Care: Monitoring patient vitals, providing post-operative instructions, and assisting with patient flow.
- Administrative: Managing electronic dental records and scheduling appointments.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, you must be a U.S. citizen and meet the following criteria:
- Completion of a CODA-accredited 1-year dental program or equivalent experience.
- Certification in dental radiography.
- Ability to clear a security investigation and drug screening.
- Adherence to the seasonal influenza vaccination policy.
Comparison: General Dental Assistant vs. VA Dental Assistant
| Feature | General Dental Assistant | VA Dental Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Benefits | Varies | Comprehensive Federal Benefits |
| Patient Base | General Public | Military Veterans |
| Retirement | Employer Dependent | Federal Pension & 401(k) |
| Schedule | Varies | Consistent Mon-Fri |
Salary Overview
The salary for this position is competitive, ranging from $50,037 to $65,047 per year, depending on qualifications and experience.
Benefits
Working at the VA comes with a robust total rewards package, including:
- Generous paid time off (37-50 days including holidays).
- Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- Retirement plans including a pension and the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP).
- Paid parental leave.
- Child care subsidies for qualifying employees.
Application Tips
Ensure your application is successful by using the official VA clinical resume format provided on their career portal. Be detailed and transparent about your experience, as the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your skill level.
This role is an excellent opportunity to build a stable, rewarding career in healthcare. If you have the technical skills and the heart to serve, we encourage you to apply by the September 16, 2026, deadline.
Why This Dental Assistant Job Matters
Join the Coatesville VA Medical Center team and make a tangible difference in the lives of our nation's heroes through dedicated, compassionate dental care.
Dental Assistant Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a skilled Dental Assistant to join the clinical team at the Coatesville VA Medical Center in Pennsylvania. This role is a vital part of the Dental Service Line, where you will provide high-quality chairside support, assist with complex restorative and surgical procedures, and ensure patient comfort. You will work in a collaborative environment that prioritizes excellence in oral healthcare for Veterans. This is a full-time opportunity offering a competitive salary and the extensive benefits package of a federal employee.
Requirements for Dental Assistant
- Must be a United States Citizen.
- Must be proficient in spoken and written English.
- Completion of a 1-year CODA-accredited dental assistant program OR six months of equivalent professional experience.
- Successful completion of required dental radiography certification.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation.
- Subject to a background/security investigation.
- Willingness to undergo pre-employment urinalysis for drug screening.
- Compliance with annual influenza vaccination requirements.
Preferred Qualifications for Dental Assistant
- Experience in four-handed dentistry techniques.
- Proficiency in electronic dental record management.
- Ability to perform dental laboratory functions including model pouring and tray preparation.
- Experience providing patient education and post-operative instructions.
- Strong interpersonal skills for clinical patient interaction.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary structure
- ✓13-26 days of annual leave based on tenure
- ✓13 days of sick leave per year
- ✓11 paid Federal holidays
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance programs
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan
- ✓Federal 401(k) Thrift Savings Plan with up to 5% employer matching
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
💡 How to Apply Dental Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dental Assistant Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your long-form resume, specifically using the VA Clinical Resume format.
- Review the job announcement and questionnaire on USAJOBS.
- Upload your resume, transcripts, and required credentials.
- Submit your application and questionnaire by the closing date of September 16, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Use the VA-provided clinical resume template to ensure your experience is properly captured.
- Be specific about your experience—don't assume the hiring team knows your daily tasks; document them clearly.
- Highlight your experience with dental imaging and infection control, as these are critical components of the role.
- Double-check your documentation before submission to avoid disqualification due to missing records.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of schedule should I expect?
This position operates on a full-time, Monday through Friday schedule, from 7:45 a.m. to 4:15 p.m.
Are there growth opportunities for this role?
The position is a GS-06 level, which serves as the full performance level for this vacancy, offering stability and professional development within the VA system.
Do I need a specific certification?
Yes, you must meet the radiologic credentialing standards as specified in the announcement.
Is this a remote position?
No, this is an onsite position located in Coatesville, PA.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Working for the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) means joining a team that values compassionate, whole-health care.