Advance Your Dental Career with the VA Puget Sound Health Care System
Are you a dedicated dental professional looking to combine your clinical expertise with a meaningful mission? The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is currently hiring a Dental Hygienist to support our nation's Veterans in Tacoma, Washington. This role offers not only a competitive salary but also the opportunity to work within a world-class, interdisciplinary healthcare environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Dental Hygienist, you will be a vital member of our clinical team. Your primary responsibilities will include:
- Setting up operatories and maintaining stringent infection control standards.
- Providing comprehensive oral prophylaxis and periodontal support.
- Working collaboratively with Staff Periodontists on treatment plans.
- Educating Veterans on oral health maintenance and the impact of systemic conditions on their dental health.
- Administering anesthesia and performing radiographic procedures.
Qualifications & Requirements
Candidates must meet rigorous standards to ensure the highest level of care for our patients. Basic requirements include:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: Associate degree or higher from a CODA-accredited program.
- Licensure: A current, full, and unrestricted license to practice.
- Certification: Radiologic certification per 42 CFR Part 75 standards.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade Level | Requirements Overview |
|---|---|
| GS-5 | Entry level; basic degree and licensure. |
| GS-6 | 1 year of experience + core clinical skills. |
| GS-7 | Advanced knowledge of oral pathology and medical conditions. |
| GS-8 | Proficiency in state-of-the-art preventive dentistry and regulation compliance. |
| GS-9 | Mastery of complex hygiene procedures and patient assessment. |
Salary & Benefits
This position offers a salary range of $58,810 to $115,848 per year. In addition to competitive pay, employees benefit from:
- EDRP: Eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program (up to $200k).
- Leave: Generous annual and sick leave accrual.
- Growth: Continuous learning and professional development within a federal health system.
Application Tips
To ensure your application is competitive, highlight your specific experience with medically compromised patients and your technical proficiency in modern dental software and equipment. Always double-check your resume dates and ensure all supporting documents, especially your dental license and transcripts, are clear and legible.
Joining the VA is more than just a job; it is a commitment to the health and well-being of our heroes. If you are ready to provide exceptional, evidence-based care in a supportive, mission-focused environment, we encourage you to apply through the USAJOBS portal today.
Why This Dental Hygienist Job Matters
Join the VA Puget Sound Health Care System and elevate your career as a Dental Hygienist while serving those who have served our nation.
Dental Hygienist Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs is seeking a dedicated and skilled Dental Hygienist to join the VA Puget Sound Health Care System in Tacoma, Washington. This role offers an opportunity to provide high-quality, compassionate dental care to Veterans in one of the most complex and interdisciplinary healthcare systems in the country. You will work within a supportive team environment, engaging in both routine and specialized preventive dental procedures to ensure the well-being of our patient population.
Requirements for Dental Hygienist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Hold an Associate degree or higher from a CODA-accredited dental hygiene program.
- Possess a full, current, and unrestricted dental hygiene license in a U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
- Certified in radiologic procedures as per 42 CFR Part 75.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Pass a pre-employment medical evaluation and urinalysis screening.
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959.
- Subject to background and security investigations.
Preferred Qualifications for Dental Hygienist
- Active certification in Local Anesthesia.
- Experience working with medically compromised patient populations.
- Proven ability to perform complex instrumentation and oral health education.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000 for qualifying student loans).
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and benefits package.
- ✓Annual leave accrual based on service years.
- ✓Comprehensive health and wellness programs.
- ✓Professional development and clinical training opportunities.
💡 How to Apply Dental Hygienist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dental Hygienist Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Prepare your long-form resume, transcripts, and licensure documentation.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application package, including all required supporting documents.
- Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and detailed in your resume, including hours worked per week for each position.
- Ensure all education documents, including transcripts, are uploaded before the closing date.
- Double-check that your license is current and meets all state requirements.
- Address all KSAs (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities) clearly in your application materials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for student loan repayment?
Yes, this position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which provides reimbursement for qualifying student loans up to $200,000.
What is the work schedule for this role?
The standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Can I apply if I am not currently certified as a radiographer?
The VA may offer a temporary appointment for non-certified applicants for up to two years, during which certification must be obtained.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling the promise of caring for those who have served. VA Puget Sound is a Level 1a teaching facility, recognized as one of the most complex and comprehensive healthcare systems in the VA network. We operate under the "I CARE" core values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.