Dental - RDA - Full-Time

At the San Diego American Indian Health Center, we are a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) committed to providing compassionate, culturally respectful care rooted in the values of American Indian communities. We welcome patients and staff from all tribes, ethnic backgrounds, and walks of life. Our holistic approach focuses on the health of the individual as a pathway to strengthening the entire community.

Location: San Diego American Indian Health Center (SDAIHC)
Job Type: Full-Time | In-Person
Schedule: Monday–Friday

Position Summary

The Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) plays a critical role in supporting patient-centered dental care within our community health setting. You’ll assist dentists during procedures, manage infection control protocols, maintain dental equipment, and provide patient education—all while working with a diverse and often underserved population.

The ideal candidate is compassionate, organized, culturally sensitive, and committed to upholding the SDAIHC mission.

Key Responsibilities

Patient Care & Chairside Assistance

Welcome and prepare patients for dental procedures with professionalism and compassion
Assist during exams, fillings, extractions, root canals, impressions, and other dental procedures
Take dental X-rays, apply fluoride treatments, and place dental dams
Educate patients on post-treatment care and preventive oral hygiene
Schedule follow-up visits and create specialist referrals
Present treatment plans and obtain informed consent

Clinical & Equipment Management

Prepare and sterilize instruments and treatment rooms according to OSHA and CDC standards
Set up trays and ensure all materials are ready for each procedure
Monitor dental supply inventory and equipment maintenance
Perform routine clinical duties such as spore testing and trap cleaning
Maintain equipment like NOMAD radiographic units and sterilization systems

Records & Compliance

Accurately document treatments and patient notes in the Electronic Dental Record (EDR) system (eCW preferred)
Ensure strict adherence to HIPAA, OSHA, HRSA, and California Dental Board guidelines

Patient Communication & Education

Deliver clear, supportive education on oral hygiene and treatment follow-up
Address patient questions and concerns with empathy and accuracy

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

Completion of an accredited Dental Assisting program
Current California RDA license in good standing
Valid X-Ray certification
Current CPR/BLS certification (hands-on AHA or Red Cross only)
Certificates in Coronal Polishing and Pit & Fissure Sealants

Preferred Experience

6–12 months of dental assisting experience
Familiarity with EHR/EDR systems (especially eCW)
Experience in FQHC, community health, or Indian Health Clinics
Bilingual (Spanish/English) strongly preferred

Skills & Competencies

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Strong attention to detail and ability to anticipate clinical needs
Comfort working with diverse and underserved populations
High level of professionalism, confidentiality, and ethical standards
Proficiency in Microsoft Office and willingness to learn new systems
Strong time management and multitasking abilities

Physical Requirements

Ability to lift/move up to 20 lbs and remain on your feet for extended periods
Capable of sitting, typing, and working at a desk for long durations
Must be able to communicate clearly in English (written and spoken)

Workplace Expectations

Actively uphold SDAIHC’s mission, vision, and values in daily duties
Follow all compliance, privacy, and infection control protocols
Participate in training, quality improvement, and safety initiatives
Maintain required certifications and annual renewals

Benefits & Compensation

Competitive pay based on experience
Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, and retirement plans
Paid time off and holiday leave
Ongoing professional development and training

Equal Opportunity & Indian Preference

San Diego American Indian Health Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
We strongly encourage applicants from all backgrounds. Preference will be given to qualified American Indian/Alaska Native candidates in accordance with the Indian Preference Act (25 U.S.C. §§ 472, 473, 473a).