Launch Your Career: Dental Assistant Opportunities with the VA in Lubbock
The Veterans Health Administration is currently accepting applications for the role of Dental Assistant at the Amarillo VA Health Care System’s clinic in Lubbock, Texas. If you are a skilled professional looking for a career that combines clinical excellence with the noble mission of serving those who have served our country, this is your opportunity.
Job Responsibilities
As a Dental Assistant, you will act as a key member of the dental care team. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Chairside Assisting: Supporting dentists during both routine and complex procedures, including oral surgery, endodontics, and periodontics.
- Imaging: Capturing high-quality diagnostic radiographs while adhering to strict safety protocols.
- Infection Control: Maintaining a sterile environment and properly handling clinical instruments.
- Patient Care: Assisting with patient preparation, monitoring vital signs, and providing post-operative education.
- Administrative Support: Managing scheduling, charting findings in electronic medical records, and maintaining inventory.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following baseline requirements:
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess a degree from a CODA-accredited program or have six months of relevant dental experience.
- Must hold valid radiologic certification.
- Proficiency in English (written and spoken).
- Ability to pass a federal background check and drug screen.
Salary and Comparison
The position offers a competitive salary range based on the General Schedule (GS) scale.
| Pay Metric | Details |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $36,464 - $59,031 per year |
| Promotion Potential | GS-6 |
| Federal Holidays | 11 Days per year |
| Paid Leave | 13-26 Days Annual Leave + 13 Days Sick Leave |
Benefits
Federal employees enjoy a robust benefits package that sets the industry standard. Highlights include:
- Insurance: Access to comprehensive health, dental, vision, and long-term care insurance.
- Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and a Thrift Savings Plan (401k-style) with a 5% employer contribution.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous annual leave and sick time, plus the potential for compressed or flexible schedules.
- Family Support: Paid parental leave and available childcare subsidies for eligible employees.
Application Tips
To maximize your chances, follow these expert tips:
- Be Precise: Use MM/YYYY format for all employment dates and clearly state 'Full-Time' or 'Part-Time' to receive credit for your experience.
- Include Transcripts: If you are using your education to qualify, your transcript is mandatory.
- Use the Checklist: Double-check that you have uploaded your resume, any licenses, and proof of eligibility before submitting.
Serving our nation’s veterans is a rewarding career path. With competitive pay, job stability, and an impactful mission, a position as a Dental Assistant at the Lubbock VA clinic is a fantastic way to elevate your healthcare career. Start your application today to join a team that puts veterans first.
Why This Dental Assistant Job Matters
Join a mission-driven team in Lubbock and provide world-class dental care to the heroes who served our nation.
Dental Assistant Job Overview
The Amarillo Veterans Affairs Health Care System is seeking dedicated Dental Assistants to join our clinical team in Lubbock, Texas. In this role, you will play a vital part in our mission to provide comprehensive, compassionate dental services to Veterans. You will work alongside experienced dental professionals, utilizing modern techniques to support a range of procedures from restorative care to specialty surgeries.
Requirements for Dental Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Completion of a CODA-accredited dental assistant program or at least six months of relevant experience.
- Must meet radiologic certification standards through the Dental Assisting National Board or approved equivalent.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Must be able to pass a background/security investigation.
- Willingness to participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
Preferred Qualifications for Dental Assistant
- Experience in specialized dental fields including oral surgery, periodontics, endodontics, and implants.
- Strong proficiency in impression making and digital radiography.
- Certification in basic life support methods.
- Demonstrated ability to perform four-handed dentistry and assist in complex operative procedures.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Generous paid time off (up to 37-50 days including annual, sick, and federal holidays)
- âś“Comprehensive federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance
- âś“Federal 401k-style retirement plan with employer matching up to 5%
- âś“Paid parental leave after one year of service
- âś“Childcare subsidy program for eligible employees
- âś“Regular salary increases and career advancement opportunities
đź’ˇ How to Apply Dental Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dental Assistant Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare a detailed, long-form resume ensuring dates are in MM/YYYY format and include hours worked per week.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including transcripts and any necessary certifications or SF-50 forms.
- Submit your complete application package through the online portal before the closing date.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Be specific in your resume—don't let the agency guess your level of experience.
- Ensure your resume explicitly labels experience as 'Full-Time' or 'Part-Time' to ensure you receive proper credit.
- Submit all required documents at once to avoid delays in your application review.
- Verify your school’s accreditation status through the U.S. Department of Education website before applying.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
The schedule is typically Monday through Thursday from 07:00 to 16:30 and Friday from 07:00 to 15:30, with alternating Fridays off.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation expenses are not authorized for this vacancy.
Do I need to be a certified dental assistant to apply?
While certification in radiologic procedures is mandatory, non-certified applicants may be considered for temporary appointments if they meet other criteria, though full certification must be obtained.
What is the trial period?
New federal employees must complete a 1 or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and professional conduct.
Can I apply if I am not a veteran?
Yes, this position is open to the public.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to provide high-quality healthcare to military veterans and their families. Working for the VA means more than just a job; it means being part of an agency that values integrity, compassion, and innovation. The Amarillo VA Health Care System offers a supportive atmosphere with the benefits of a major federal employer.