Maniilaq Association

11/24

Title:  Dental Assistant Trainee                                                                                                Range:  12 + 8 steps

Program:  Dental                                                                                                                   Status:  Non-Exempt

Housing Priority:  None                                                                                                          Covered:  Yes

POSITION SUMMARY

Provides assistance to Dental Providers and supports clinic functions. Work includes operatory preparation, chair side assistance, and record-keeping. Maintains cleanliness of operatory units and materials.  Works with potentially hazardous equipment and materials, such as:  x-rays, potentially infectious body fluids, autoclaves and sharp instruments.  Work is done in the Maniilaq Service Area but primarily based in Kotzebue. Reports directly to Dental Operations Supervisor.

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Displays a willing and helpful attitude toward patients 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.
4. Prepares operatory for dental provider, including seating and draping patients, and setting out instruments and materials needed for treatment.
5. Takes radiographs as prescribed by dental clinician.
6. Provides chair side assistance, including passing instruments, arranging and preparing materials, operating oral evacuator and retracting cheek and tongue.
7. Reports to Dental Operations Supervisor.
8. Updates patient records as directed by provider.
9. Prepares supplies and equipment for village travel, and works overtime as needed on village travel.
10. Accesses, reads and responds as necessary to written material and e-mail on a daily basis.
11. Maintains confidentiality of patients and hospital-related information according to HIPAA Guidelines.
12. Expected to participate in and successfully complete training offered locally that leads to promotion to Dental Assistant I/II, including Basic Life Support and I.H.S. Dental Radiology training. Additional training outside of the area may also be required.
13. Follows Dental Assistant Guidelines according to State of Alaska.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

High school diploma or equivalent. Complete training in dental terminology, basic infection control, vital sign monitoring techniques, Basic Life Support, and complete I.H.S Radiology Certification Program 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.