Lead Dental Assistant

About the role

The Lead Dental Assistant works with the supervisor or Chief Dental Service at the SLC VAHCS to monitor and make work assignments, provide input on performance, resolve daily workplace issues, and maintain efficient flow of patient care; may approve brief periods of leave, provide training to staff dental assistants, students and/or trainees; may recommend special advancements and promotions, disciplinary actions, etc. Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. English Language Proficiency: Dental assistants must be proficient in spoken and written English in accordance with 38 U.S.C. 7403(f). Experience and/or Education: Must have six months experience that demonstrates the applicant's ability to perform the work, or provides familiarity with the work. ~OR~ Successful completion of a 1-year dental assistant program accredited by the American Dental Association's Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA). ~OR~ Have an equivalent combinations of experience and education. Certification: Public Law 97-35 requires that persons who administer radiologic procedures meet the credentialing standards in 42 CFR Part 75. Essentially, they must have successfully completed an educational program that meets or exceeds the standards described in that regulation, and is accredited by an organization recognized by the Department of Education, and be certified as radiographers in their field. You must meet one of the following: Successful completion of the Dental Radiation Health and Safety Examination administered by the Dental Assisting National Board, Inc. Successful completion of the Principles and Practice of Dental Radiology and Radiographic Safety courses and examinations developed by the Assistant Under Secretary for Health for Dentistry. Successful completion of a radiation health and safety program or examination approved by a state board of dentistry or the Department of Defense (DoD). NOTE: Certification in basic life support methods is highly desirable. May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria). Grade Determinations: GS-7 Lead Dental Assistant Certification by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB): The American Dental Association (ADA) recognizes DANB as the national certification for Dental Assistants. DANB certification is required for all positions above the GS-6 (full performance) level. GS-7 Lead Dental Assistant Experience: At least 1 year of experience at the GS-6 grade level that demonstrates the core competencies described at that level. GS-6 Assignment: Employee serves at the full performance level with the ability to perform full range of duties with some independence in assigned specialties, with indirect supervision from the lead dental assistant, dental assistant supervisor or treating dentist. Assignments at this level include, but are not limited to: using the concepts of four-handed dentistry; assists with specialty procedures including oral surgery, periodontal therapy, endodontic, prosthodontic and implant placement and restoration; anticipates surgeons/specialists needs at each stage of treatment; takes preliminary impressions; selects and manipulates a variety of gypsums and waxes; pours, trims and evaluates the quality of diagnostic casts; fabricates custom trays. GS-7 Lead Dental Assistant Demonstrated Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs): In addition, the candidate must demonstrate the following technical KSAs: Advanced knowledge of dental assisting across multiple areas of practice, and demonstrated ability to provide guidance to staff dental assistants. Skill in coordinating clinical work flow and assignments. Ability to assist in dental program development, outcome management, and strategic planning. Skill in acting as liaison between staff dental assistants and the supervisor. Ability to provide professional oversight and consultation for staff dental assistants. Preferred Experience: The preferred GS-7 Lead Dental Assistant is a reliable, self-directed team member who consistently produces high-quality work with little oversight while maintaining a positive, solutions-oriented, and professional demeanor. They work efficiently in both the operatory and lead assistant responsibilities, transitioning smoothly between direct patient care and administrative responsibilities. They are proficient with computer-based charting, community care coordination, and scheduling, and they quickly adapt to new VA software and systems. This assistant communicates clearly and respectfully with Veterans and staff, helps the clinic stay on schedule, and actively contributes to a cooperative, respectful workplace. Highly desirable GS-7 Lead Dental Assistant candidates will demonstrate a consistent

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