Dental Assistant

The Dental Assistant – Mobile Van/Driver/Float plays a vital role in delivering high-quality, accessible dental care to communities across Connecticut. This unique, mobile position combines clinical chairside assistance, mobile van driving and setup, main site coverage, and community outreach support. The ideal candidate is a team player, skilled in multi-tasking, and able to adapt to varied environments while supporting the dental team and patients. This position requires flexibility, travel across the state, and a commitment to providing exceptional patient care in mobile clinics, schools, main sites, and community events.

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Clinical & Chairside Assistance
• ·       Prepare the dental operatory and assist the dentist during procedures, using four-handed dentistry techniques.

·Support the delivery of care including:

·Passing instruments and materials.

·Managing suction and evacuation systems.

·Taking and processing digital dental radiographs (X-rays).

·Provide patient education and post-operative instructions in a compassionate manner.

·Maintain strict infection control standards, including:

·Sterilizing instruments and equipment.

·Disinfecting treatment areas.

·Managing logbooks for sterilization, X-rays, and supplies.

·Monitor and restock dental supplies and equipment for mobile operations.

Mobile Van/Float Operations & Driving

·Safely drive the Mobile Dental Van to various sites across Connecticut, including schools, community centers, and health fairs.

·Assist with set up and breakdown of the mobile clinic, and dental equipment.

·Complete daily vehicle inspections and maintain logs for safety, maintenance, and inventory.

·Collaborate with the Mobile Unit team to ensure the van is clean, stocked, and operating safely.

·Report any vehicle issues or site concerns promptly to the leadership team.

·Travel between school-based, main sites, community-based, and mobile dental sites across Connecticut as assigned.

Community Outreach & Support

·Build rapport with patients, families, school staff, and community partners to ensure a welcoming, patient-centered environment.

·Support data collection and documentation for program reporting as needed.

Qualifications:

• ·       High School Diploma or equivalent.
• ·       Graduate of an accredited Dental Assisting program OR at least 2 years of dental assisting experience in general dentistry.
• ·       Valid Connecticut Driver’s License with a clean driving record for at least 5 years.
• ·       Experience working with diverse populations; community health or school-based experience is a plus.
• ·       Flexibility to travel statewide and work at various sites as assigned.

Physical Requirements:

• ·       Ability to drive and operate a large vehicle (Mobile Van), including loading/unloading supplies and equipment.
• ·       Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift in a mobile clinic setting.
• ·       Exposure to blood borne pathogens; adherence to OSHA standards required.
• ·       Ability to work in a fast-paced, mobile environment, including outdoor/community settings.

Work Schedule:

·Flexibility required, including early mornings, evenings, and occasional weekends based on program and community needs.

·Willingness to travel to multiple sites across Connecticut.