What are the responsibilities and job description for the JHC Dental Hygienist position at JAMESTOWN SKLALLAM TRIBE?
The Jamestown Healing Clinic (JHC) is seeking a Dental Hygienist who is passionate about providing exceptional oral healthcare in a supportive, trauma-informed environment. In this role, you'll work closely with patients affected by substance use disorders, delivering preventive dental services, education, and compassionate care while promoting long-term oral health and overall wellness.
If you're looking for a meaningful career where you can make a lasting impact on your community, we'd love to hear from you.
Schedule
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Part-Time
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2–3 days per month
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Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday
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7:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Essential Functions
Clinical Responsibilities
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Examine patients' oral cavities, including the mouth, throat, and pharynx, documenting the condition of teeth and surrounding tissues.
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Refer patients to the dentist for decay, defective fillings, oral abnormalities, periodontal disease, and other concerns.
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Apply desensitizing agents and other topical medications as appropriate.
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Perform comprehensive oral prophylaxis, including:
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Seating and draping patients.
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Supragingival and subgingival scaling using cavitron and universal scaling instruments.
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Removing calculus deposits, accretions, and stains.
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Polishing teeth using rubber prophy cups and prophy paste.
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Applying topical fluorides, anticariogenic agents, and occlusal sealants.
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Cleaning and polishing removable dental appliances.
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Administer topical and local anesthesia as permitted.
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Expose, develop, and mount dental radiographs, including bitewing, panoramic, and periapical images.
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Interpret radiographs to identify calculus, decay, oral abnormalities, and periodontal bone loss while utilizing X-rays as patient education tools.
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Record medical histories and treatment provided.
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Maintain dental instruments and equipment in optimal working condition.
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Disinfect operatories and sterilize instruments in accordance with Dental Clinic Policies & Procedures, JST Public Health & Safety Plan, and the Tribe's Exposure Control Plan.
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Educate patients individually and in groups using models, displays, brochures, videos, and other educational materials.
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Demonstrate proper brushing, flossing, and periodontal care techniques.
Trauma-Informed Care
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Provide care using a trauma-informed approach that recognizes the impact of past trauma on health behaviors.
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Tailor communication and treatment plans to meet each patient's individual needs.
Harm Reduction
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Integrate harm reduction principles into patient care.
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Educate patients about the effects of substance use on oral health and strategies to reduce associated risks.
Patient Education & Support
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Address patient questions and concerns with empathy and respect.
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Provide resources and referrals for additional healthcare services when appropriate.
Additional Responsibilities
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Follow all Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe and Jamestown Healing Clinic policies and procedures, including HIPAA, safety standards, and infection control practices.
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Maintain patient confidentiality at all times.
Minimum Qualifications
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High School Diploma or equivalent.
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Current Washington State Dental Hygienist License.
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Basic Life Support (BLS) and First Aid certification for Healthcare Providers.
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Complete 15 hours of continuing education annually.
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Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
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Commitment to providing compassionate, patient-centered care.
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Knowledge of:
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Dental and oral anatomy
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Oral physiology and histology
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Radiology and nutrition
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Preventive dentistry principles and techniques
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Dental instruments and materials
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Skill and dexterity in performing scaling, curettage, and root planing.
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Comfortable treating periodontally involved patients.
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Ability to educate and motivate patients on oral health and disease prevention.
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Basic computer proficiency with the ability to learn dental scheduling and electronic charting software.
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Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
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Ability to travel locally and regionally as needed.
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Valid driver's license.
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Ability to successfully pass a criminal background investigation.
Preferred Qualifications
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Experience working with patients affected by substance use disorders.
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Experience or training in trauma-informed care.
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Knowledge of harm reduction principles and practices.
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American Indian/Alaska Native hiring preference applies.
Physical Requirements
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Ability to perform dental hygiene procedures while sitting for extended periods.
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Ability to respond effectively during emergency situations.
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Must be available to work any shift, including weekends and holidays, as business needs require.
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Ability to lift, push, and carry up to 25 pounds without assistance.
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Ability to stand, sit, walk, bend, climb, squat, twist, and reach throughout the workday.
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Strong manual dexterity, hand-eye coordination, and visual acuity.
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Ability to thrive in a fast-paced healthcare environment while maintaining professionalism and exceptional patient care.At Jamestown Healing Clinic, you'll be part of a compassionate, multidisciplinary team dedicated to improving the health and well-being of our community. We value respect, collaboration, and culturally responsive care while supporting professional growth and work that truly makes a difference.
Apply today and help create healthier smiles while making a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve.
Salary : $53 - $70