Description

JOB SUMMARY:

The Dental Sterilization Technician assists Dental department staff by performing duties associated with the sterilization process and dispensing of dental instruments, supplies and equipment used by the Dentists, Dental Assistants and Dental Hygienists. In additional unlicensed Dental Assistants can assist Dentist/ Hygienist with chairside procedures. (excluding dental assistant expanded function). An unlicensed Dental Assistant will have to present a certificate of completion from a credited dental assistant program. 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Ensure treatment rooms are cleaned prior to the patient being seated and cleaned after the dental services have been provided.
• Handle and dispose of infection control and hazardous waste according to clinic protocols.
• Sterilize and disinfect all instruments and dental equipment in accordance with clinic protocols and manufacturer guidelines. 
• Reports defective materials or equipment to appropriate supervisors or staff.
• Maintain stock of supplies needed to properly run the sterilizing, dispensing and pre-patient care areas.
• Checks supplies to ensure they are not expired.
• Maintain storage rooms in a neat and orderly manner in keeping with the highest standards of sanitation.
• Collects information, keeps records and prepares reports as required using computerized inventory.
• Performs other related duties and participates in special projects as assigned.
• Performs other tasks as assigned.
• Under direct supervision of a Dentist or Hygienist assist with dental chair procedure. 

Requirements

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Excellent customer/patient service and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to read, write, speak, and understand information and follow instructions for the proper handling of tools, instruments, and supplies. 
• Basic computer knowledge. 
• Ability to work in a fast paced, patient-focused environment. 
• Detail oriented.
• Listening skills: must be able to listen and follow directions from a supervisor. 
• Organizational skills: ensure that all tools, instruments, and supplies are available and properly set up to enhance the efficiency of the dentist and other clinical staff. 
• Ability to perform the job in accordance with United Family Medicine’s Standards of Business Conduct, which includes compliance, ethics and integrity, confidentiality, protection of assets and avoidance of conflicts of interest and inappropriate business relationships. 

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• Completion of GED or high school diploma is required.
• Completion of an Accredited Dental Assistant Program.
• At least 1 year of prior dental office experience is required.

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:

N/A

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• May require prolonged periods of sitting/standing/listening/speaking. 
• Must be able to lift -up to 15 pounds at times.

WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Work is performed in a clinic office environment. Which includes interaction with other staff members, patients, and outside agencies. Possible exposure to communicable disease and medical preparations common to clinic environment.

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES:

None