Launch Your Career as a Dental Assistant at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base
If you are a dedicated dental professional looking to support the men and women of our armed forces, a career with the Defense Health Agency (DHA) may be your next great move. We are currently recruiting for a Dental Assistant to join the prestigious 355th Medical Group at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona. This position provides essential dental support within an integrated healthcare system, ensuring the readiness and well-being of our military personnel and their families.
Job Responsibilities
As a Dental Assistant, you will act as a vital member of the clinical team. Your primary duties will include:
- Chair-side Assistance: Passing instruments, operating high-speed evacuators, and retracting tissue to assist the dentist.
- Radiographic Duties: Performing intra- and extra-oral radiographs while adhering to strict safety protocols.
- Clinical Support: Taking preliminary impressions, trimming models, and constructing custom impression trays.
- Patient Education: Instructing patients on proper dental hygiene and appliance care.
- Records Management: Charting examinations and treatments accurately in patient records.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Radiology Certification: You must possess a certification that meets 42 CFR Part 75 standards.
- Specialized Experience: At least one year of experience in dental assisting, specifically including chair-side work and x-ray operation.
- Education: A combination of experience and education may be utilized, provided it meets 100% of the qualification requirements.
- Documentation: You must provide a resume (no longer than two pages) and proof of your licensure/certification.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $41,508 – $53,961 |
| Location | Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ |
| Employment Type | Federal (DHA) |
| Security Clearance | Not Required |
Benefits
Working for the federal government offers a comprehensive suite of benefits, including:
- Access to robust federal health insurance.
- Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- Paid vacation, sick leave, and federal holidays.
- A stable work-life balance within a mission-driven organization.
Application Tips
- Focus on the Resume: The two-page limit is non-negotiable. Keep your formatting clean and ensure every entry shows the hours worked per week.
- Be Clear: Avoid obscure acronyms. Describe your clinical skills using standard industry terminology.
- Verify Status: Always check your USAJOBS dashboard to ensure your application status reflects correctly after submission.
This role is an excellent opportunity to bring your dental expertise to a high-impact environment. By joining the 355th Medical Group, you contribute directly to the health and mission readiness of the U.S. Air Force. Prepare your application carefully and submit it before the deadline to be considered for this exciting opportunity.
Why This Dental Assistant Job Matters
Launch your healthcare career at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base! Join the Defense Health Agency as a Dental Assistant and provide critical care to those who serve.
Dental Assistant Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a skilled Dental Assistant for the 355th Medical Group at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Tucson, Arizona. This position offers a rewarding opportunity to provide chair-side assistance, perform radiologic procedures, and support the dental health of military service members and their families in a fast-paced clinical environment.
Requirements for Dental Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship
- Radiology certification meeting 42 CFR Part 75 standards
- One year of specialized experience providing chair-side assistance and operating dental x-ray equipment
- Submission of a resume not exceeding two pages
- Ability to pass drug testing and background suitability screening
- Registration with the Selective Service for male applicants born after December 31, 1959
Preferred Qualifications for Dental Assistant
- Completion of a four-year dental assistant or dental hygiene program
- Proficiency in clinical dental charting and patient instruction
- Demonstrated ability to assist in training students and trainee dental assistants
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal Salary
- ✓Federal health and life insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans (FERS)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- ✓Opportunities for professional development within the Defense Health Agency
💡 How to Apply Dental Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dental Assistant Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the application portal.
- Upload all required documentation, including licenses, certifications, and transcripts.
- Verify that your application status is submitted before the September 21, 2026 deadline.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to exactly two pages or less; longer resumes will be automatically disqualified.
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience, including hours worked per week and specific dental tasks.
- Don't use acronyms; write out terms clearly to ensure the HR team understands your qualifications.
- Double-check that all uploaded documents have cleared the virus scan before the closing date.
- Ensure your Radiology Certification is attached, as it is a mandatory requirement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a security clearance required for this position?
No, this is a non-sensitive, low-risk position, though it does require a suitability/fitness determination.
Can I use foreign education for this position?
Yes, but it must be evaluated by a private organization that specializes in foreign education interpretation to prove equivalence to U.S. standards.
What is the deadline for this job announcement?
Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM EST on September 21, 2026.
Is relocation assistance provided?
*A: No, payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized for this position.*
Can I apply if I am not a veteran?
*A: Yes, this position is open to the public.*
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency is a critical component of the U.S. Department of Defense, tasked with providing medical, dental, and pharmacy services to over 9.5 million service members and their families. At Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, you will work in a facility with a rich history and a vibrant community. Located in the beautiful desert landscape of Tucson, the base offers easy access to regional attractions like the University of Arizona, stunning mountain hiking, and unique historical sites.