Permanent Dental Assistant Job in TN
DENTAL ASSISTANT APPLY Purpose of Job The purpose of this classification is to assist the dentist in diagnostic and preventative procedures during examination and treatment of patients. Essential Functions The Dental Assistant is responsible for the following essential functions: Assist the dentist in medical or dental emergencies, oral surgery, restorative and hygiene procedures Maintains inventory of supplies, requisitions supplies when required and assists with the stocking of supplies as necessary Assists in the day-to-day maintenance/cleaning of equipment and apparatusâ utilized in an effort to ensure the proper operation on a daily basis and maintain infection control Brings patients to the examination area and obtains their history and vital signs and records medical and dental history in their chart. Obtains x-rays, if necessary, preparing patient with lead shield, positions x-ray camera, takes x-ray and removes x-ray film, and develops x-ray film and presents for Dentist to review Provides post-procedure instructions to patient Assists dentist with the outreach school program when necessary Maintains all documents logs and maintains updated MSDS manual (may be assigned to one assistant on a rotating basis Attends seminars and continuing education courses as required for licensure or by employer Additional Job Functions Respond to and report immediately if called upon by local, regional or central office supervisors, as part of a coordinated emergency response by the Knox County Mayorâs Office Ensure regular, punctual attendance during scheduled work hours Perform other duties as required Minimum Training & Qualifications Associates Degree in Dental Assistance is required with one (1) year of dental assistant/laboratory experience; or any equivalent combination of education, training, and experience which provides the requisite knowledge, skills, and abilities for this position Must possess and maintain a valid State of Tennessee registration in Dental Assisting Must obtain or possess and maintain a valid CPR certification May require to possess and maintain a valid Tennessee Driverâs License depending on work assignment Specialized Knowledge N/A Competencies Basic understanding of computers, printers and other office equipment Must be proficient in Windows OS and Microsoft Office Ability to focus and demonstrate great attention to detail Ability to work cooperatively as a member of a team Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Excellent interpersonal and customer service skills. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite or related software. Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail. Basic understanding of clerical procedures and systems such as recordkeeping and filing. Ability to work independently. Physical Requirements This position requires the ability to engage in light/moderate physical activity as is to be expected in dental work. Candidate must be able to perform bi-lateral upper extremity movements simultaneously in a highly repetitive, short cycle sequence and pace Must be able to operate a variety of dental equipment and physical demands at work may include standing/walking throughout shift and repetitive bending and squatting throughout shift to care for patients Must be able to effectively grip and control dental tools with high levels of coordination Duties typically include some combination of stooping, kneeling, crouching and crawling, and may include some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (12-25 pounds) Occupational Hazards Exposure to body fluids including saliva and blood Exposure to cleaning fluids, disinfecting fluids and chemicals needed for machine operation Exposure to needles and syringes Exposure to radiation Risk of exposure to infectious agents with the possibility of becoming ill Knox County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, Knox County Government may provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and encourages both prospective and current employees to discuss potential accommodations with the employer. Type : INTERNAL & EXTERNAL Location : HEALTH DEPARTMENT Posting Start : 12/29/2025 Posting End : 01/12/2026 MINIMUM HOURLY RATE: $20.85
