Dental Assistant

Position Type: Onsite, Full-Time Contract
Schedule: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM
Professional Reference: 1 Required

The Dental Public Health Office Assistant performs clerical and administrative tasks in dental clinics, including patient registration, appointment scheduling, check-in and check-out, reminder and follow-up calls, referral coordination, and other assigned duties. Candidates should be customer-focused, self-motivated, team-oriented, and willing to travel as needed.

• Schedule and manage patient appointments and communicate visit requirements.
• Collect and update patient demographic information for registration.
• Review documentation to determine eligibility for federal and state programs.
• Enter and retrieve information using multiple computer systems.
• Process cash transactions and balance the cash drawer.
• Explain client rights and responsibilities for program participation.
• Obtain prior authorization before releasing medical information.
• Assist with insurance prior authorizations by gathering and submitting required documentation.
• Prepare forms for requested services to support efficient clinic operations.
• Scan and index records into the electronic dental record.
• Maintain a positive, cooperative, and professional work environment.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Two years of full-time customer service and/or clerical or office work experience.
• Current driver’s license.
• Tennessee Bureau of Investigation background check.

Education Substitution: Accredited college or university coursework may substitute for the required experience on a year-for-year basis, up to two years. For example, 45 quarter hours may substitute for one year of experience.

• Active Tennessee Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) license.
• Dental front office experience.
• Knowledge of dental terminology for accurate scheduling and insurance coding.
• Ability to assist chairside during emergencies or staffing shortages.

• Full-time contract position funded through FY2031.