Launch Your Dental Career with the VA in Poplar Bluff
Are you a dental professional looking to advance your clinical skills while making a tangible difference in the lives of our nation's heroes? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently hiring for a Clinical Expanded Function Dental Assistant at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. This position offers a rewarding opportunity to provide specialized care in an environment that values professional growth and patient-centered service.
Job Responsibilities
As an expanded-function dental assistant, you will perform advanced clinical duties at least 25% of the time. Key responsibilities include:
- Performing oral cavity inspections and gathering diagnostic data.
- Providing expert chairside assistance during complex restorative, endodontic, and periodontal procedures.
- Utilizing advanced imaging techniques like cone beam and cephalometric radiography.
- Managing infection control and equipment sterilization.
- Charting findings and treatment plans in patient records.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a U.S. Citizen.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English.
- Hold appropriate radiologic certification.
- Complete a pre-employment physical.
- Possess one year of specialized experience or an accredited one-year dental assisting program.
Comparison Table: Qualifications
| Qualification Type | Requirement Details |
|---|---|
| Basic Education | CODA-accredited 1-year program |
| Clinical Experience | 6 months minimum (1-2 years preferred) |
| Certification | Must meet federal radiologic standards |
| Physicality | Must be able to perform light lifting (<15 lbs) |
Salary Overview
This position is categorized under the GS-7 grade level. The annual salary range is $50,460 to $65,599, depending on experience and performance metrics.
Benefits
- Comprehensive federal health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Retirement benefits, including a pension and 401(k) style TSP.
- Paid annual, sick, and parental leave.
- Access to the VA childcare subsidy program for eligible employees.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Use your resume to map your experience to the duties listed.
- Documentation: Ensure all transcripts, licenses, and certifications are attached.
- Stay Timely: Submit your application well before the November 30, 2026, deadline.
Join us at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center. If you are passionate about dental health and eager to serve Veterans, apply today and start your journey with the VA.
Why This Clinical Expanded Function Dental Assistant Job Matters
Advance your dental career while serving those who have served our nation at the beautiful John J. Pershing VA Medical Center.
Clinical Expanded Function Dental Assistant Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a skilled Clinical Expanded Function Dental Assistant to join our team in Poplar Bluff, Missouri. In this role, you will perform advanced clinical dental duties, supporting both general dentists and specialists. You will be an integral part of a healthcare team dedicated to providing compassionate, high-quality care to our nation's Veterans.
Requirements for Clinical Expanded Function Dental Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Completion of a 1-year CODA-accredited dental assistant program OR equivalent experience
- Certification in radiologic procedures according to federal standards
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Subject to background investigation and drug screening
- Registration with Selective Service for males born after 12/31/1959
Preferred Qualifications for Clinical Expanded Function Dental Assistant
- 2 to 3 years of clinical dental assisting experience
- Current certification by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
- Active certification in Basic Life Support (BLS)
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting
- ✓401(k) retirement savings with agency matching up to 5%
- ✓Generous paid annual leave and sick leave accrual
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months of service
- ✓Childcare subsidy program for eligible employees
💡 How to Apply Clinical Expanded Function Dental Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Clinical Expanded Function Dental Assistant Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a detailed, long-form resume highlighting your dental experience.
- Complete the mandatory online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload required documentation, including transcripts and professional certifications.
- Submit your application package via the online portal before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume is detailed and specific; do not assume the recruiter knows your duties.
- Include transcripts if you are relying on education to meet qualification requirements.
- Check your application status regularly through your USAJOBS account.
- Review the 'Required Documents' section carefully to avoid disqualification due to missing paperwork.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the expanded function duties for this role?
Expanded functions comprise at least 25% of the role and include tasks such as gathering diagnostic information, pulp vitality testing, placing rubber dams and matrices, placing temporary crowns, and monitoring nitrous oxide analgesia.
Is this position eligible for remote work?
No, this is an onsite clinical position at the John J. Pershing VA Medical Center in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional healthcare. The John J. Pershing VA Medical Center, located in the "Gateway to the Ozarks," offers a unique opportunity to work in a scenic, affordable, and vibrant community with a lower cost of living and easy access to outdoor recreation.