Dental Assistant 2 (Temporary)

Job Description

As a UW employee, you have a unique opportunity to change lives on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees offer their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills, and dedication to build stronger minds and a healthier world.

UW faculty and staff also enjoy outstanding benefits, professional growth opportunities and unique resources in an environment noted for diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits, and natural beauty.

The Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (OMS) at the UW School of Dentistry specializes in the diagnosis, surgical treatment, and management of diseases associated with the face and jaws such as trauma, infections, disorders, and cancer associated with the face and neck. Our clinics work closely with residents acquiring their OMS certification and the school’s General Practice program, giving students unique learning experiences like extractions, implant placements, and dental anesthesia and sedation in a clinic setting. Our clinic, Northwest Center for Oral and Facial Surgery, is located at 6222 NE 74th St, Building 25, within Warren G. Magnuson Park. Our core values include compassion and respect for our patients, high moral and ethical standards, and a commitment to evidence-based and technically excellent clinical practices.  In addition, whereas we serve a diverse population, we are equally committed to supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion in our workplace.

OMS has an outstanding opportunity for a Temporary Dental Assistant 2.

The Dental Assistant 2 (DA2) performs delegated tasks under the direct supervision of the Dental Clinic Supervisor 2. These tasks include direct patient care, technical procedures, and the preparation and monitoring of patients undergoing surgery and dental procedures in ambulatory, recovery, and clinical care settings at our Sand Point clinic – the Northwest Center for Oral and Facial Surgery - Faculty-Resident Clinic. Normal job duties will include setting up and preparing for IV sedation and general anesthesia patients, including their operatory, sterilization, and turning over rooms. The DA2 role provides dental assistance to both oral and maxillofacial residents and oral and maxillofacial surgery assistance to faculty and affiliated surgeons. 

Duties and Responsibilities:

The Dental Assistant 2 (DA2) provides patient care assistance in many different areas of the clinic.

• Assist faculty with new patient screenings
• Aid dental students, residents and/or faculty in four-handed dentistry and routine chair-side duties and patient care
• Maintain complete knowledge of the dental materials used in clinic, using the restorative dentistry guide booklet with instructions and data related to usage and teachings of dental materials utilized in the school's clinics
• Obtain and mix dental materials, clean and prepare treatment areas, stock clinics, and provide residents with knowledge and ideas to aid in the educational process
• Serve as a back-up person in the clinic dispensary or sterilization areas, or take on full responsibilities depending on clinic workload
• Orient new staff and trainees to clinic procedures and policies
• Maintain robust knowledge of the guidelines mandated by OSHA/WISHA and the UW/UW School of Dentistry (UWSOD) regarding infection control protocols; following rules, regulations and training set forth by the UW and UWSOD
• Support special curriculum projects throughout the year that aid in the teachings of trainees and continuing education in patient care by attending instructional courses, and provide instruction to trainees about working with dental assistants, materials, procedures, et cetera
• Perform related dental duties as instructed, including computer skills related to clinic function and patient care
• Maintain respectful communications and relate positively with all patients, faculty, staff and trainees; a professional and positive attitude is expected at all times
• Communicate with direct supervisors to promote operational improvement or improve the safety of the clinical environment
• Review follow up treatment plans, post-operative instructions, and medical and dental health histories with patients
• Take radiographic images, seat patients, transcribe doctor assessments, and walk patients to the front desk for scheduling the next appointment
• Prepare and clean the clinic, making it ready for patient care
• The person in this position must be professional, reliable and safely provide quality care at all times. Performs related duties as required.

Minimum Requirements:

• Completion of an accredited training program for dental assistants, AND current certification as a dental assistant (CDA) OR the ability to obtain same within six months.
• Two years of experience as a dental assistant. One year of additional dental assistant experience may substitute for required education.

Legal/Licensing Requirements:

Registered with the State of Washington as a Dental Assistant.

Compensation, Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Shift:

Temporary or Regular?

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

Union/Bargaining Unit:

About the UW 

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world.  

UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty. 

Our Commitment 

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [email protected]. 

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.