Advance Your Career as a Dental Hygienist with the Defense Health Agency
Are you a passionate dental professional looking for a meaningful career change? The Defense Health Agency (DHA) is currently seeking a highly skilled Dental Hygienist to join our team at the military treatment facility in Fort Hood, Texas. This role is a unique opportunity to provide critical dental care to service members, retirees, and their families while enjoying the stability and benefits of federal service.
Job Responsibilities
As a Dental Hygienist, you will serve as a key member of the dental clinic team. Your primary duties will include:
- Clinical Prophylaxis: Performing advanced oral hygiene procedures on both ambulatory and non-ambulatory patients.
- Diagnostic Imaging: Managing high-quality radiographic images, including bitewings, periapicals, and panoramic x-rays.
- Data Management: Meticulously maintaining patient treatment records within our automated electronic health record systems.
- Patient Coordination: Preparing patients for treatment and ensuring a safe, efficient clinical workflow.
Qualifications
To be eligible for this position, applicants must meet the following baseline requirements:
- Licensure: You must hold a current, active license to practice as a dental hygienist in a U.S. state, territory, or the District of Columbia.
- Radiology Certification: Compliance with Public Law 97-35 regarding credentialing for radiologic personnel.
- Specialized Experience: A minimum of one year of experience performing oral examinations, prophylaxis, and interpreting routine x-rays.
Requirements Comparison Table
| Requirement Type | Specification |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Experience | 1 Year of specialized dental work |
| Education Substitution | Not permitted |
| Certification | Radiology certification required |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive annual salary ranging from $50,460 to $65,599. Beyond the salary, federal employees benefit from a robust compensation package designed to support long-term wellness and financial stability.
How to Apply
Applying for a federal position requires attention to detail. Please follow these steps to ensure your application is considered:
- USAJOBS Account: Ensure you are registered on the USAJOBS portal.
- Resume Standards: Keep your resume to exactly two pages or less. Include clear start and end dates (month/year) and hours worked per week.
- Documentation: Attach your current license and radiology certification clearly. Incomplete applications will not be processed.
- Questionnaire: Complete the online assessment thoroughly.
The role of a Dental Hygienist within the DHA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the health and readiness of those who serve our country. If you meet the criteria and are ready for a rewarding career in a dynamic clinical environment, submit your application through the official portal before the October 6, 2026, deadline.
Why This Dental Hygienist Job Matters
Join the Defense Health Agency at Fort Hood and provide essential dental care to those who serve our nation.
Dental Hygienist Job Overview
The Defense Health Agency is seeking a skilled Dental Hygienist for a mission-critical role at Fort Hood, Texas. As a vital member of our healthcare team, you will provide comprehensive oral prophylaxis and dental hygiene support to both ambulatory and non-ambulatory patients within a federal clinical environment. This position offers a stable government career path dedicated to the oral health and readiness of military service members and their families.
Requirements for Dental Hygienist
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current, active state or district licensure to practice as a dental hygienist
- Certification in radiologic procedures meeting 42 CFR Part 75 standards
- At least one year of specialized dental hygiene experience
- Must be able to successfully complete a one-year probationary period
- Successful passing of a drug test
Preferred Qualifications for Dental Hygienist
- Proven experience performing advanced oral prophylaxis
- Expertise in digital dental imaging, including bitewing, periapical, and panoramic x-rays
- Strong record-keeping skills within automated healthcare systems
- Ability to work effectively in a high-paced, military-affiliated clinical environment
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Retirement savings plans including the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid federal holidays and leave accrual
- ✓Stable federal employment under the Defense Health Agency
- ✓Opportunities for professional development in a mission-essential environment
💡 How to Apply Dental Hygienist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dental Hygienist Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a resume that is strictly two pages or less.
- Complete the online questionnaire via the provided link.
- Upload all necessary documentation, including your license, certifications, and transcripts.
- Verify that your application package is complete and submitted before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume to two pages or less to avoid automatic disqualification.
- Clearly document your experience with specific start/end dates and average hours worked per week.
- Avoid using acronyms or vague technical jargon; use plain, professional language.
- Submit your documentation early to account for potential virus scan delays.
- Double-check that you have attached your active dental hygiene license and radiology certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary location for this job?
This position is located at Fort Hood, Texas.
Can I substitute education for the required experience?
No, this specific position requires one year of specialized experience; education cannot be substituted for the experience requirement.
Is a security clearance required?
No security clearance is required, though the position is subject to suitability and credentialing background checks.
Is this a remote position?
No, this role is on-site at Fort Hood and is not eligible for telework.
Do I need a security clearance?
No, this position is designated as non-sensitive, though it requires suitability and credentialing checks.
Job from Military Treatment Facilities Under Dha
The Defense Health Agency is an integrated healthcare system responsible for delivering medical, dental, and pharmacy services to over 9.5 million eligible beneficiaries across the Department of Defense. As a strategic partner to the Joint Force, the DHA mission is centered on building medical readiness and providing world-class care anytime, anywhere.