Launch Your Career as a Dental Lab Technician with the VA
Are you a highly skilled dental laboratory technician looking for a role that combines your craftsmanship with a meaningful mission? The Orlando VA Healthcare System is currently seeking dedicated professionals to join our dental team. This is an exceptional opportunity to serve those who have served our country while working in a high-tech environment that values clinical excellence.
About the Orlando VA Healthcare System
The Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS) is a world-class medical network providing comprehensive health care to over 131,000 Veterans in Central Florida. Our facilities, including the state-of-the-art Orlando VA Medical Center at Lake Nona and various clinics in Viera and Winter Park, are equipped with modern technology. We pride ourselves on offering 'Whole Health' care, and our dental department is a critical component of that promise.
Job Responsibilities
As a Dental Lab Technician, you will be responsible for a wide range of functions, including:
- Fabricating, repairing, and adjusting prosthetic appliances.
- Utilizing modern digital laboratory techniques, including CAD/CAM milling and digital impressions.
- Working closely with dentists, oral surgeons, and prosthodontists to design custom solutions.
- Maintaining records and tracking workload via dental databases.
- Applying technical skills to ensure the fit, form, and comfort of dental prosthetics for patients.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, applicants must be U.S. citizens and meet the following criteria:
- Experience/Education: One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level or qualifying graduate education.
- Documentation: Submission of an SF-50 (if currently in federal service) and academic transcripts.
- Compliance: Ability to pass a background check and a physical examination.
- Vaccination: Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Salary and Grade Overview
The position is classified within the General Schedule (GS) pay system. Below is a comparison of potential grade levels based on experience and qualifications:
| Grade Level | Focus Area | Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| GS-7 | Foundational Skills | 1 Year Specialized Experience or Graduate Degree |
| GS-8 | Advanced Fabrication | 1 Year Specialized Experience or 2 Years Graduate Education |
| GS-9 | Specialist/Complex | 1 Year Specialized Experience or Master's Level Education |
Note: Salary ranges from $50,835 to $80,840 depending on grade level and qualifications.
Benefits
Working for the Department of Veterans Affairs provides an array of federal benefits, including competitive salary adjustments, comprehensive health insurance, retirement planning through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), and generous annual leave accrual.
How to Apply
- Register: Create an account on USAJOBS.
- Prepare: Download the specific Clinical Resume template from the VA careers website.
- Upload: Attach your resume, SF-50, and supporting transcripts.
- Complete: Finish the online questionnaire and the subsequent USA Hire Assessment.
Serving our Veterans as a Dental Lab Technician is more than just a job; it is a way to give back to those who have sacrificed for our nation. With competitive pay, professional growth, and a supportive team environment, your next career move is waiting at the Orlando VA Healthcare System. Apply by September 24, 2026, to be considered.
Why This Dental Lab Technician Job Matters
Elevate your dental career with the Orlando VA Healthcare System and make a tangible difference in the lives of our nation's Veterans.
Dental Lab Technician Job Overview
The Orlando VA Healthcare System is seeking skilled Dental Laboratory Technicians to join our dedicated team. In this role, you will apply your expertise in dental technology to fabricate, repair, and maintain prosthetic appliances, playing a vital role in the comprehensive oral healthcare provided to Veterans. This position involves both traditional laboratory craftsmanship and modern digital dentistry techniques, offering a dynamic environment for professional growth.
Requirements for Dental Lab Technician
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Completion of a pre-employment physical examination.
- Must undergo a background and security investigation.
- Registration with the Selective Service for males born after December 31, 1959.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
- Current federal employees must meet time-in-grade requirements (52 weeks at the next lower grade).
- Must pass a probationary or trial period as a condition of employment.
Preferred Qualifications for Dental Lab Technician
- One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Graduate-level education in a field directly related to dental technology.
- Proficiency in digital dentistry, including CAD/CAM milling and digital impressions.
- Experience in carving and contouring wax to duplicate natural oral tissue.
- Skilled in the fabrication of fixed and removable implant-retained dentures and crowns.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training.
- ✓Work-life balance with standard scheduling.
- ✓Eligibility for federal retirement programs and pension benefits.
- ✓Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- ✓Accrual of annual and sick leave.
💡 How to Apply Dental Lab Technician Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dental Lab Technician Job
- Create or log in to your account on the USAJOBS platform.
- Download and complete the required standard Clinical Resume template.
- Upload your resume, SF-50 (if applicable), and transcripts.
- Complete the online application questionnaire.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 24, 2026.
- Monitor your email for a notification to complete the mandatory USA Hire Assessments.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; do not rely on the hiring team to make assumptions about your previous experience.
- Ensure your SF-50 clearly demonstrates one full year of time-in-grade at the required level.
- Set aside at least three hours to complete the USA Hire Assessments in a single or multiple sessions.
- Double-check that all required documents, including transcripts and SF-50s, are attached before clicking submit.
- Use the 'Track this application' feature in USAJOBS to stay updated on your status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Dental Lab Technician at the VA?
You will design, fabricate, and repair dental prosthetic appliances, including dentures, crowns, and bridges, while utilizing both manual tools and advanced digital dental technology.
Are there opportunities for remote work?
No, this is an onsite position requiring physical presence in the dental laboratory.
What level of education is required?
Qualifications can be met through specialized experience, graduate education, or a combination of both. Specific requirements depend on the grade level (GS-7 to GS-9).
Do I need a specific certification?
While experience is paramount, the VA requires specific levels of specialized experience or education. Ensure your resume highlights your technical proficiency.
What if I cannot attend the physical exam?
All employees must meet the physical requirements as a condition of employment to ensure they can safely perform the essential functions of the laboratory.