Launch Your Dental Career with the VA: Dental Hygienist Opportunity in Huntington
Are you a dedicated Dental Hygienist looking for a career that combines clinical excellence with a higher purpose? The Hershel "Woody" Williams VA Medical Center in Huntington, West Virginia, is seeking a compassionate and skilled professional to join our dental team. This position offers more than just a job; it provides an opportunity to support the oral health of those who have sacrificed for our nation. As a federal employee, you will contribute to a legacy of care while refining your clinical expertise in a collaborative environment.
Job Responsibilities
In this role, you will play a crucial part in the dental care team. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Patient Care: Performing routine prophylaxis, scaling, root planing, and applying fluoride treatments.
- Diagnostic Support: Assisting with clinical examinations, recording restorative chartings, and taking high-quality dental radiographs.
- Chairside Assisting: Utilizing 4-handed dentistry techniques to support dentists during specialized procedures like oral surgery and prosthodontics.
- Lab Functions: Preparing study models, fabricating temporary crowns, and mounting casts.
- Administrative Duties: Ensuring accurate documentation in patient records and assisting with clinic scheduling.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is mandatory.
- Education: An Associate degree or higher from an accredited dental hygiene program.
- Licensure: A current, full, and unrestricted license to practice in a U.S. jurisdiction.
- Proficiency: Excellent command of written and spoken English.
- Medical Clearance: Ability to pass a pre-employment physical.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade Level | Key Requirement | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| GS-05 | Basic Requirements | Entry Level Developmental |
| GS-06 | 1 Year Experience at GS-05 | Procedural Competency |
| GS-07 | 1 Year Experience at GS-06 | Oral Pathology & Radiography |
| GS-08 | 1 Year Experience at GS-07 | Advanced Preventive Dentistry |
| GS-09 | 1 Year Experience at GS-08 | Full Performance Level |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $42,684 to $84,082 per year, depending on your qualifications and grade level determination. The VA also offers federal employee benefits, including federal leave accrual and the opportunity to work in a stable, respected institution.
Benefits
Choosing a career with the VA means accessing federal benefits, including competitive leave accrual rates based on your years of service. You will also work in a facility that champions the Whole Health model, ensuring that you have the environment and resources necessary to succeed as a healthcare professional.
Application Tips
- Be Detailed: Ensure your resume highlights specific clinical skills, such as subgingival scaling or radiographic safety.
- Verify Credentials: Ensure your license and transcripts are readily available and meet the U.S. Department of Education accreditation standards.
- Follow Instructions: Missing a single document, such as an SF-50 if you are a current federal employee, can impact your application status.
If you are ready to apply your dental hygiene skills in a facility that honors those who have served, we encourage you to submit your application today. Join our mission at the Hershel "Woody" Williams VA Medical Center and make a meaningful impact in the lives of our Veterans.
Why This Dental Hygienist Job Matters
Elevate your dental career by providing compassionate, high-quality care to those who have served our nation. Join the dedicated team at the Hershel 'Woody' Williams VA Medical Center and make a tangible difference in the lives of our Veterans.
Dental Hygienist Job Overview
The Hershel 'Woody' Williams VA Medical Center is seeking a skilled and compassionate Dental Hygienist to join our clinical team. In this role, you will perform essential oral hygiene procedures, assist with dental diagnostics, and provide vital patient education to our Veteran community. This is a rewarding part-time position (24 hours per week) based in Huntington, West Virginia, where you will work within an interdisciplinary healthcare environment committed to whole-health outcomes.
Requirements for Dental Hygienist
- Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Possess an Associate degree or higher from an accredited dental hygiene program.
- Hold a full, current, and unrestricted license to practice as a dental hygienist in a U.S. State, Territory, or D.C.
- Must be proficient in spoken and written English.
- Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation and drug screening.
- Must undergo a background and security investigation.
Preferred Qualifications for Dental Hygienist
- Experience working with patients managing multiple co-morbidities within the last six months.
- Demonstrated ability to communicate complex oral health information effectively to diverse patient groups.
- Advanced knowledge of periodontal disease management and preventive dentistry techniques.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal employee leave accrual based on service time
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth within the Department of Veterans Affairs
- ✓Access to a comprehensive healthcare environment
- ✓Participation in a mission-driven, Whole Health-focused culture
💡 How to Apply Dental Hygienist Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dental Hygienist Job
- Log in or create an account at USAJOBS.
- Review the full job announcement and questionnaire requirements.
- Prepare your long-form resume, transcripts, and licensure documentation.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your application and all required documents by the closing date of November 3, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience in the clinical tasks mentioned to avoid assumption-based disqualification.
- Clearly highlight volunteer work or community service if it relates to dental hygiene.
- Double-check that your license is current and that your transcript shows the required accreditation.
- Submit your package well before the deadline to account for potential system delays.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the work schedule for this position?
This is a part-time role operating Tuesday through Thursday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM, totaling 24 hours per week.
Is relocation assistance provided?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this vacancy.
Is this a virtual position?
No, this is an in-person, clinical role at the Huntington, WV, facility.
What if I have gaps in my employment history?
The VA has a policy against denying employment solely due to financial hardship or past periods of unemployment.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare to Veterans and their families. The Hershel "Woody" Williams VA Medical Center serves as a cornerstone for healthcare in southwestern West Virginia, southeastern Ohio, and eastern Kentucky. We prioritize a "Whole Health" approach, empowering both patients and staff to take charge of their well-being. Our facilities include the main medical center in Huntington and several community-based outpatient clinics, ensuring that our Veterans receive accessible, high-quality treatment.