LATC - Dental Assisting Instructor

POSITION SUMMARY:

 Lake Area Technical College is seeking a passionate and dedicated Dental Assisting Instructor to join our growing team. This position is responsible for providing classroom, laboratory, and clinical instruction in the Dental Assisting program, maintaining alignment with Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) standards, and helping students develop the technical and professional skills necessary for success in the field.

The ideal candidate will bring current clinical experience, a strong commitment to student success, and a willingness to collaborate with faculty and community partners. This position requires dedication to a full-time teaching load, professional development, and department responsibilities.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Deliver engaging and up-to-date instruction in dental assisting courses, including didactic, lab, and clinical formats.

• Prepare lesson plans, instructional materials, and assessments that reflect current industry standards and CODA requirements.

• Supervise students in clinical settings, ensuring adherence to program policies, protocols, and safety standards.

• Maintain accurate student records, evaluations, and documentation.

• Collaborate with fellow faculty and staff to maintain curriculum relevance, develop course content, and improve student outcomes.

• Participate in program advisory committees, faculty development activities, accreditation processes, and community outreach.

• Uphold a positive and professional learning environment that promotes high standards, accountability, and student engagement.

REPORTS TO: Department Supervisor of Dental Assisting, Dean of Academics, Vice President

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Current Certification by the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB), or must obtain prior to hire.

• Current Registration as a Dental Assistant in the State of South Dakota, or must obtain prior to hire.

• Candidates with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree are encouraged to apply. In accordance with CODA requirements, employees hired without a bachelor’s degree must complete a bachelor’s degree within three (3) years of hire. Candidates who already possess a bachelor’s degree meet this requirement.

• Minimum of three (3) years of clinical dental assisting experience strongly preferred, particularly in hands-on chairside support and expanded clinical functions. Candidates with a background as dental hygienists who have relevant expanded functions experience may be considered.

• Demonstrated knowledge in dental assisting practices and in the subject areas assigned to teach.

• Familiarity with educational theory, teaching methodology, test construction, and evaluation techniques.

• A strong commitment to professionalism, including adherence to ethical standards, responsibility for student outcomes, and support for institutional goals.

• Prior teaching experience in dental assisting or a related field a plus.

• Experience or training in curriculum development, educational psychology, and/or distance learning methodologies.

• Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment and communicate professionally with students, faculty, and industry partners.

• This position requires a full-time commitment, which includes course delivery, curriculum development, student advising, program planning, and other institutional duties.

• Candidates should understand that teaching in higher education often extends beyond traditional classroom hours and may require flexibility in schedule to support student success and program needs.

• A strong work ethic, effective time management skills, and the ability to work collaboratively as a team player are essential to balance instructional duties, preparation, and departmental collaboration.

SALARY: $56,840.00 - $85,261.00

TERMS OF EMPLOYMENT:

196-day contract. Salary and benefits are set by the Watertown Board of Education in accordance with

the state postsecondary technical instructor salary formula.

Competitive benefits package including health, dental, generous leave policy, and South Dakota

Retirement System eligibility through the Watertown School District.

Salary : $56,840 - $85,261