Become a Leader in Dental Care: Supervisory Dental Assistant Position at the VA
Are you a dental professional looking to transition into a leadership role? Do you want to dedicate your career to serving those who have served our nation? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in Goldsboro, North Carolina, is currently seeking a talented and experienced Supervisory Dental Assistant to manage operations and provide guidance to our clinical staff.
The Role
The Supervisory Dental Assistant (SDA) is a pivotal leadership position. You will be responsible for the direct supervision of dental assistants, ensuring that our clinic functions efficiently and effectively. You will assist the Dental Service Chief in policy development, resource allocation, and clinical workflow management. This position requires someone who can multitask, mentor junior staff, and maintain high standards of patient care.
Key Responsibilities
- Team Leadership: Supervising three or more dental assistants, providing performance appraisals, and facilitating staff training.
- Clinical Coordination: Planning and directing daily clinic operations to ensure seamless patient flow.
- Advanced Dental Assisting: Performing complex dental procedures, including final impressions and assisting in specialty surgeries.
- Clinic Support: Assisting the Chief of Dental Services with workload analysis and administrative equipment requests.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, applicants must meet specific federal standards:
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen.
- Experience/Education: You must have at least six months of dental assisting experience or a certificate from a CODA-accredited program.
- Certification: Valid radiologic certification is required. Candidates without it may be hired on a temporary basis but must obtain it to maintain employment.
- Background: Candidates must pass a pre-employment physical and a drug test.
Comparison: Dental Assistant vs. Supervisory Dental Assistant
| Feature | Dental Assistant | Supervisory Dental Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Core Focus | Patient care & clinical support | Team management & clinical oversight |
| Responsibilities | Chairside assistance | Workflow, staffing, and policy |
| Reporting | Reports to supervisor | Reports to Dental Service Chief |
| Leadership | Minimal | Required |
Salary and Benefits
The annual salary for this position ranges from $58,355 to $75,858, depending on qualifications and experience. Beyond the paycheck, the federal government provides an unmatched benefits package:
- Comprehensive Insurance: Choose from various federal health, dental, vision, and life insurance plans.
- Generous Leave: Accrue between 13 and 26 days of annual leave plus 13 days of sick leave per year.
- Holidays: Enjoy 11 paid federal holidays.
- Retirement: Secure your future with a federal pension and a 401(k) (Thrift Savings Plan) featuring matching government contributions.
- Family Support: Access to childcare subsidies and paid parental leave.
How to Apply
Applying for federal jobs can be a unique process. Ensure your application is complete by:
- Updating your Resume: Ensure it reflects all relevant experience, including volunteer work.
- Gathering Documents: Keep your transcripts, professional licenses, and certifications handy.
- Applying Online: Use the USAJOBS portal to submit your application before the November 2, 2026, deadline.
Joining the VHA in Goldsboro as a Supervisory Dental Assistant is an opportunity to lead, innovate, and serve. If you have the drive and the clinical expertise, this position offers the tools and the environment you need to excel. Apply today to become a leader for our nation's Veterans.
Why This Supervisory Dental Assistant Job Matters
Take the next step in your healthcare career by leading a dedicated dental team at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Goldsboro, NC.
Supervisory Dental Assistant Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Supervisory Dental Assistant to join our team in Goldsboro, North Carolina. This leadership role involves managing clinical workflows, supervising dental staff, and assisting the Dental Service Chief with administrative oversight. If you are passionate about providing high-quality care to our nation's Veterans and possess the leadership experience to drive clinical excellence, we encourage you to apply.
Requirements for Supervisory Dental Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens only hired if no qualified citizens are available).
- Must be proficient in written and spoken English.
- Completion of a 1-year dental assistant program accredited by CODA, or 6 months of relevant dental assisting experience.
- Must possess valid certification in radiologic procedures (DANB or equivalent).
- Pass a pre-employment physical examination.
- Must pass a drug screening test.
- Must complete a 1-2 year trial period.
- Willingness to participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
Preferred Qualifications for Supervisory Dental Assistant
- Current CDC certification.
- Minimum of 5 years of professional dental assistant experience.
- Active certification by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB).
- Certification in basic life support (BLS) methods.
- Proven experience in a supervisory or leadership capacity within a dental practice.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with periodic increases.
- ✓Comprehensive federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance plans.
- ✓Generous paid time off (up to 26 days of annual leave and 13 days of sick leave).
- ✓11 paid federal holidays per year.
- ✓Paid parental leave for eligible employees.
- ✓Childcare subsidy program for qualifying families.
- ✓Traditional federal pension (5-year vesting).
- ✓Federal 401k (Thrift Savings Plan) with matching contributions up to 5%.
💡 How to Apply Supervisory Dental Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Supervisory Dental Assistant Job
- Create or log into your account at USAJOBS.
- Prepare a detailed long-form resume or CV highlighting your clinical and leadership experience.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Gather and upload all required documentation, including transcripts and professional certifications.
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date of November 2, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and clear about your past experiences; the agency cannot make assumptions about your skill level.
- Ensure your resume includes both paid and relevant volunteer work.
- Verify that all certifications are current and documented.
- Check your USAJOBS account regularly for status updates after submitting your application.
- Review your documents to ensure they meet the specific agency requirements before uploading.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for telework?
No, this is a clinical, onsite position in Goldsboro and is not eligible for telework.
What happens if I don't have my radiological certification at the time of hiring?
Non-certified applicants may be given a temporary appointment, but failure to obtain certification within the required period will result in termination of employment.
What is the primary role of the Supervisory Dental Assistant?
The incumbent is responsible for the supervision and administrative management of three or more dental assistants, coordinating clinical workflows, and supporting the Dental Service Chief.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to honor America’s Veterans by providing exceptional, compassionate health care. When you work for the VA, you aren't just an employee; you are a vital part of a team that provides world-class care to millions of heroes and their families.