Launch Your Career as a Dental Assistant at the Fayetteville VA Medical Center
Are you a dedicated dental professional looking to transition into a career where your work directly supports those who have served our country? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a skilled Dental Assistant for our Fayetteville, North Carolina facility. This is an exceptional opportunity to utilize your advanced clinical skills in a mission-driven environment.
About the Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We provide comprehensive, compassionate care to Veterans. Working with the VA offers not just a job, but a calling. You will join a multidisciplinary team focused on patient-centered, whole-health care, ensuring our Veterans receive the gold standard of treatment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Dental Assistant at the GS-07 level, you will perform high-level clinical assignments. Your daily duties will include:
- Diagnostic Support: Gathering patient records, performing pulp vitality tests, and charting existing conditions.
- Chairside Assistance: Assisting dentists with complex procedures using advanced techniques.
- Imaging: Performing and providing instruction on advanced imaging, including cone beam, panoramic, and cephalometric imaging.
- Restorative Support: Fabricating temporary crowns, placing matrices, retraction cords, and temporary restorations.
- Equipment Maintenance: Ensuring all instruments are sterilized and clinical equipment is operational.
Comparison of Qualifications
| Feature | Preferred Qualification | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | 3+ Years chairside | 6 Months |
| Certification | DANB Certified | Radiation Health & Safety Exam |
| Education | Advanced Certification | 1-Year CODA Program |
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Professional Standards: Must maintain required licensure/certification.
- Physical Exam: Must pass a pre-employment health screening.
- Background Check: Must be able to pass a background/security investigation.
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $52,693 to $68,502 annually. Beyond the paycheck, the VA provides a robust benefits package that sets the industry standard, including comprehensive health insurance, a federal pension, and a 401(k)-style retirement plan.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit the USAJOBS portal, create a profile, and upload your detailed resume. Ensure you answer the occupational questionnaire thoroughly. The application window is limited by an applicant cap, so it is highly recommended to submit your materials as soon as possible.
Joining the VA as a Dental Assistant means becoming part of a community dedicated to excellence. If you are passionate about clinical care and serving Veterans, we encourage you to submit your application today.
Why This Dental Assistant Job Matters
Join a dedicated healthcare team in Fayetteville, NC, providing high-quality dental support to those who served our nation.
Dental Assistant Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a skilled Dental Assistant for the Fayetteville VA Medical Center. In this role, you will perform advanced clinical dental assisting duties, supporting our mission to provide world-class, compassionate care to Veterans. This position involves direct patient interaction, diagnostic imaging, and complex chairside assistance in a collaborative, mission-driven clinical environment.
Requirements for Dental Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Successful completion of a 1-year dental assistant program accredited by CODA, OR six months of relevant experience, OR a combination of both
- Certification in radiologic competence (Dental Radiation Health and Safety)
- Must pass a pre-employment physical examination
- Must undergo a background/security investigation and drug screening
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
Preferred Qualifications for Dental Assistant
- Current Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) certification
- Three or more years of chairside experience in all areas of dentistry
- Certification in basic life support (BLS) methods
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive salary with potential for increases
- ✓Generous paid time off (up to 26 days annual leave, 13 days sick leave, 11 paid holidays)
- ✓Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance plans
- ✓Traditional federal pension plan with 5-year vesting
- ✓Federal 401(k) Thrift Savings Plan with up to 5% employer matching
- ✓Paid parental leave after 12 months of service
- ✓Childcare subsidy program for eligible employees
💡 How to Apply Dental Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dental Assistant Job
- Create or log into your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare your long-form resume and any required documentation, such as transcripts or licenses.
- Navigate to the job opportunity link and complete the occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package, including all supporting documents, before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview requests.
💡 General Tips
- Tailor your resume to explicitly detail your experience with expanded dental functions and imaging techniques.
- Do not assume the hiring team knows your previous duties; be specific about your clinical experience.
- Submit your application early, as the announcement may close early if 25 applications are received.
- Ensure your documentation (transcripts, certificates) is clearly labeled and attached.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the full performance level for this position?
The full performance level for this position is GS-07.
Are there recruitment incentives for this role?
No, recruitment, relocation, and PCS incentives are not authorized for this specific announcement.
Is this position eligible for telework?
No, this is a clinical position that requires on-site presence and is not eligible for telework.