What are the responsibilities and job description for the Front Desk Receptionist position at Kennewick Dental?
Front Desk Receptionist
Kennnewick, WA
Full-Time
Reports To: Office Manager
**Job Summary**
We are seeking a friendly, organized, and professional **Front Desk Receptionist** to serve as the welcoming face and first point of contact for our dental practice. The ideal candidate will provide exceptional customer service, efficiently manage patient scheduling and administrative tasks, and support the smooth daily operations of the office so our dental team can focus on delivering high-quality patient care.
**Key Responsibilities**
- Greet patients and visitors warmly upon arrival, check them in, and ensure a positive first impression
- Answer, screen, and direct incoming phone calls in a timely and courteous manner; handle inquiries, take messages, and route calls appropriately
- Schedule, confirm, reschedule, and cancel patient appointments efficiently to optimize the provider's schedule
- Verify patient insurance coverage, eligibility, and benefits prior to appointments; explain treatment costs and payment options when needed
- Collect patient co-pays, deductibles, and outstanding balances; process payments and issue receipts
- Prepare and submit insurance claims, pre-authorizations, and follow up on unpaid claims as required
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records in the practice management system (e.g., enter new patient information, update demographics, scan documents)
- Assist patients with completing necessary intake forms, medical/dental history, and consent documents
- Manage the waiting area to ensure it remains clean, organized, and comfortable
- Handle administrative tasks including filing, scanning, faxing, copying documents
- Communicate effectively with the dental office team regarding patient arrivals, changes, and special needs
- Protect patient confidentiality in compliance with HIPAA regulations at all times
- Perform other front-office duties as assigned to support overall practice efficiency
**Qualifications & Requirements**
- High school diploma or equivalent (required)
- Previous experience as a receptionist, administrative assistant, or in a customer service role (dental or medical office experience strongly preferred)
- Familiarity with dental terminology, insurance verification, and billing processes is a plus
- Proficiency with dental practice management software is highly desirable
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a warm, professional phone demeanor
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy
- Friendly, patient, and empathetic attitude with a genuine desire to help others
- Basic computer skills including Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to HIPAA guidelines
- Reliable, punctual, and able to work 10 hr. shift
**Preferred Skills**
- Knowledge of dental procedures and treatment planning
- Experience presenting treatment plans or discussing financial options with patients
- Bilingual abilities a plus
**What We Offer**
- Starting pay $20 per hour
- Full Time Benefits Include: 401K, Vision, Dental, Medical
- PTO accrual
- 6 paid Holidays
- Supportive team environment in a modern, patient-focused dental practice
- Opportunities for growth and cross-training within the office
If you are a positive, detail-oriented professional who thrives in a patient-centered environment, we would love to hear from you!
We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our workplace.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: From $20.00 per hour
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
Salary : $20