Maniilaq Association

6/22

Title:  Dental Assistant Trainee                                                                                       Range:  12 + 8 steps

Program:  Dental                                                                                                          Status:  Non-Exempt

Housing Priority:  None                                                                                                 Covered:  Yes

POSITION SUMMARY

This position is one in which the incumbent is trained to provide various kinds of assistance to the dentists, dental hygienists, and dental clinic, including patient preparation, chair side assistance, and record-keeping.  Maintains availability and cleanliness of equipment and materials needed.  Works with potentially hazardous equipment and materials, such as:  x-ray equipment, potentially infectious body fluids, autoclaves and sharp instruments.  Many of the tasks are repetitive in nature and will be explained in detail.  Work is done in Kotzebue and in the Maniilaq Association Services Area. Reports directly to Dental Assistant Coordinator.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1.       Displays a willing and helpful attitude to customers and staff.  Professionally communicates in a warm, concerned, caring, and friendly manner over the telephone and in person.

2.       Cleans and sterilizes dental equipment and instruments using autoclave according to infection control standards.  Cleans and disinfects dental work areas according to infection control standards.

3.       Stores and maintains adequate supplies in dental work areas, including preparing trays, packs, etc.

4.       Prepares dental work area for dentists and/or hygienists, including seating and draping patients, and setting out instruments and materials needed for treatment.

5.       Completes processing exposed radiographs and displays and marks them with identifying information.

6.       Provides chair side assistance with the provider acting as a guide, including passing instruments, arranging and preparing materials, operating oral evacuator and retracting cheek and tongue.

7.       Reports to Dental Assistant Coordinator.

8.       Records specific information on patients' records as dictated by provider.

9.       Prepares supplies and equipment for village travel, and works overtime as needed during those trips.

10.    Enters basic data into the computer as assigned.  Accesses, reads and responds as necessary to written material and e-mail on a daily basis.

11.    Demonstrates discretion in handling confidential information.  Maintains confidentiality of patients and hospital-related information.

12.    Expected to participate in, and successfully complete training offered locally that leads to promotion to dental assistant, including CPR and Dental Radiology training.  Appropriate additional training outside of the area may also be required.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

High school diploma or equivalent. Must complete training in dental terminology, basic infection control and blood pressure/pulse monitoring techniques within 6 months of hire.  Must be able to stand for prolonged periods of time as well as willing/able to travel in small airplanes and carry at least 40 pounds of luggage. Inupiaq/English bilingual preferred.

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job.  They are not intended to be considered an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of personnel in this job, and the employer reserves the right to revise or change this description.  This description does not constitute a written or implied contract of employment.  To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each of the above essential duties ad meet physical demands.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to meet those conditions.