Launch Your Career as a Dental Assistant with the VA in Hot Springs
Are you a dental professional looking for a meaningful career change that makes a tangible impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a skilled and compassionate Dental Assistant to join our team at the VA Black Hills Health Care System in Hot Springs, South Dakota. This position is perfect for someone who excels in clinical support and wants to provide exceptional care to our nation's Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As a Dental Assistant, you will work independently under the general supervision of a dentist. Your daily tasks include:
- Clinical Support: Preparing operatories, passing instruments, and retracting tissues during complex surgical and restorative procedures.
- Imaging: Capturing high-quality traditional and digital dental images while adhering to radiation safety protocols.
- Patient Care: Monitoring vital signs, providing dental education, and ensuring patient comfort during treatments.
- Administrative Duties: Maintaining electronic dental records, managing inventory, and assisting with scheduling.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education/Experience: Successful completion of a 1-year CODA-accredited dental assistant program OR six months of relevant work experience.
- Certification: Possession of appropriate certification for administering radiologic procedures.
- Language: Proficiency in spoken and written English.
Salary and Benefits Comparison
| Benefit Feature | Value to Employee |
|---|---|
| Salary Range | $32,435 - $59,031 per year |
| Paid Time Off | 37-50 days (Leave + Holidays) |
| Retirement | Pension + 401(k) with 5% match |
| Parental Leave | Up to 12 weeks of paid leave |
Application Tips
The hiring process at the VA is thorough. Ensure your resume explicitly details your experience with specific dental instruments, materials, and procedures. Don't forget to attach your professional certifications and transcript to ensure your qualifications are fully considered.
Serving those who served our country is a rewarding career path. If you possess the clinical skills and dedication required for this Dental Assistant role, we encourage you to apply. Join the VA Black Hills team and grow your career in a supportive federal health environment.
Why This Dental Assistant Job Matters
Join the VA Black Hills Health Care System and turn your passion for dental care into a rewarding career supporting those who served our nation.
Dental Assistant Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Dental Assistant to join our team in Hot Springs, South Dakota. This role offers the unique opportunity to provide high-quality clinical and administrative support to our Veterans while working in one of the most scenic and rewarding regions of the country. You will work in a collaborative environment, assisting with complex dental procedures, managing patient care, and ensuring the smooth operation of our dental suites.
Requirements for Dental Assistant
- U.S. Citizenship
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Successful completion of a 1-year dental assistant program accredited by CODA OR six months of qualifying experience
- Completion of the Dental Radiation Health and Safety Examination or equivalent state/DoD certification
- Must pass a pre-employment physical evaluation
- Must be able to pass a background/security investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
Preferred Qualifications for Dental Assistant
- Certification by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
- Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification
- Experience in specialized dental fields such as oral maxillofacial surgery, endodontics, or periodontics
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓37-50 days of paid time off per year (Annual leave, sick leave, and Federal holidays)
- ✓Comprehensive Federal health, vision, dental, and life insurance
- ✓Traditional Federal pension with 5-year vesting
- ✓Federal 401(k) with up to 5% agency matching
- ✓Up to 12 weeks of paid parental leave
- ✓Childcare subsidy for eligible employees
- ✓Opportunities for annual leave accrual credit based on prior service
💡 How to Apply Dental Assistant Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dental Assistant Job
- Create or log into your account on the USAJobs website.
- Prepare a detailed, long-form resume or CV highlighting your relevant dental experience.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required supporting documents, including transcripts, licenses, and SF-50s if applicable.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of November 9, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; the VA does not make assumptions about your skills or experience.
- Include volunteer work if it relates to your dental qualifications.
- Ensure all educational documents are accredited by a U.S. Department of Education recognized institution.
- Check your application status frequently through your USAJobs account dashboard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB) certification required?
It is not mandatory for initial appointment, but it is highly desirable and recommended for those seeking full performance level proficiency.
What is the work schedule for this position?
The position follows a standard Monday-Friday, 7:30 am to 4:00 pm schedule.
Are relocation expenses covered?
No, recruitment, relocation, and permanent change of station incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
Is this position virtual?
*A: No, this is an onsite position located in Hot Springs, South Dakota.*
Can I use my foreign degree?
*A: Yes, provided you include a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Working at the VA Black Hills Health Care System means you are part of a multi-campus network providing comprehensive care to Veterans in Western South Dakota, Nebraska, and Wyoming. Our mission is to honor those who have served by providing the best health care possible in a supportive, mission-driven environment.