University of Florida·Gainesville, Florida
The Dental Assistant provides four-handed dentistry support to faculty and students during patient examinations and treatments. They are also responsible for sterilizing instruments, maintaining inventory, and performing laboratory tasks such as pouring dental models.
High school diploma and one year of appropriate experience and Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Appropriate college course work or vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.
The College of Dentistry is seeking candidates for two Dental Assistant I positions. The Dental Assistant works in the Faculty Practice Clinic with members of the dental faculty to provide four-handed dentistry at the chair. This position assists dentists or dental students in dental examinations and in the treatment of patients; assists faculty in the instruction of dental students; prepares patients, operates equipment, sterilizes instruments, and mix amalgam.
Assists dentist during examination and treatment of patients: Prepares patient, maintains and sterilizes instruments, sets up instrument trays, prepares materials, and assists dentist during dental procedures. In the laboratory the Dental Assistant pours dental models and trims them. Also he or she helps in the fabrication of whitening trays and in any other laboratory procedure that is required. Takes and processes dental X-rays; maintains and sterilizes dental instruments; organizes inventory and orders supplies.
Takes and records medical and dental histories and vital signs of patient. Sets up and breaks down dental operatories. Organizes inventory and orders supplies.
When assigned as rover, the Dental Assistant monitors clinical activity as well as the patient schedule to provide backup or assistance to dentists and primary assistants when needed. Responds to oral, telephonic and written communication related to patient care (appointments, consultations, emergencies) and performs related clerical duties, i.e. appoints patients in computer, copies and files charts. Assists with other duties as required to maintain efficient flow of patient care. Helps the dental assistants with setting up and breaking down dental operatories.
The University of Florida offers low-cost State Health [https://www.mybenefits.myflorida.com/health/health_insurance_plans] plans, a number of Dental plans to fit you and your family’s needs, and Vision. Domestic partner coverage through GatorCare is also available. Optional plans such as life, disability, legal and accident insurance are also available.
Build your retirement roadmap with competitive pension plans, investment accounts and a host of voluntary add-ons, such as 457 deferred compensation and 403(b) plans.
UF provides a variety of leave programs including vacation, sick leave, 11 paid holidays, personal leave days, and family medical leave. TEAMS employees accrue approximately 22 vacation days annually, 13 sick days annually, and 4 personal leave days, typically used during the holiday closing period (accruals based on full-time employment). UF also provides you the flexibility to deal with life’s challenges by offering paid family leave, eight full weeks of leave over a 24-month period.
UF Employees are also eligible for the GatorPerks discount program [https://benefits.hr.ufl.edu/gatorperks/], which provides big savings at various businesses and retailers!
TEAMS Benefits [https://benefits.hr.ufl.edu/my-benefits/explore/eligibility/teams-usps/]
High school diploma and one year of appropriate experience and Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Appropriate college course work or vocational/technical training may substitute at an equivalent rate for the required experience.
Expanded Functions Dental Auxiliary (EFDA) Certification demonstrating the successful completion of training as specified in Chapter 64B5-16, Florida Administrative Code.
Dental radiology certificate/permit
Thorough knowledge of dental terminology, equipment, instruments, materials and procedures.
In order to be considered, you must upload a cover letter, resume and a list of three references.
This position is eligible for veteran’s preference. If you are claiming veteran’s preference, please upload a copy of your DD 214 Member Copy 4 with your application for consideration. See our Veteran's Preference Page [https://jobs.ufl.edu/applicant-resources/veterans/] for more specific information.
55 p.m. (ET) of the posting end date. This requisition has been reposted. Previous applicants are still under consideration and need not apply.
Health Assessment Required: Yes
Market context
In Florida, Dental Assistant I openings are typically driven by ongoing outpatient and oral health clinic staffing needs, so employers often look for candidates who can support patient flow and infection-control routines. This role is competitive because the required mix of a high school diploma, one year of experience, and BLS certification signals readiness for a fast-paced clinical setting. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then confirm your experience with sterilizing oral surgery instruments and maintaining clinic efficiency before applying.