What are the responsibilities and job description for the Dental Health Aid Therapist position at Puyallup Tribal Health Authority?
Description
Make a Meaningful Impact on Community Oral Health!
Location: Puyallup Tribal Health Authority | Tacoma, WA | On-Site
Status: Full-Time/Exempt
Hiring Salary Range:
Position Close Date: April 23, 2026
Are you a compassionate, skilled Dental Therapist looking to make a meaningful difference in patients' lives? Join our team at Puyallup Tribal Health Authority (PTHA) where we are more than a healthcare provider — we are a wellness community rooted in respect, culture, and service to the Indigenous population we are honored to serve. The Dental Therapist role provides an opportunity to build relationships, promote prevention, and improve health outcomes in supportive, team-based environment.
What You’ll Do:
As a Dental Therapist, you’ll provide essential care that directly improves patient health and wellbeing. Working under the indirect supervision of a licensed Dentist, you will:
- Perform oral health assessments, exams, and interpret radiographs
- Deliver preventive and restorative care, including cleanings, fillings, and uncomplicated extractions
- Provide urgent care to relieve pain, swelling, and other immediate concerns
- Develop and implement treatment plans in collaboration with a supervising dentist
- Educate patients and families on oral health and disease prevention
- Refer complex cases and ensure continuity of care through follow-up
- Support and guide dental assistants to ensure efficient clinic flow
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation in the EHR
- Uphold infection control, safety standards, and HIPAA compliance
- Contribute to quality improvement and community outreach efforts
What You Bring:
- Graduate of an accredited Dental Therapy program
- Current Washington State Dental Therapist license
- Current BLS certification
- Experience providing preventive, restorative, and urgent dental care within scope
- Strong understanding of when to refer and collaborate with a Dentist
- Ability to accurately document care using EHR systems
- Commitment to maintaining strict patient confidentiality (HIPAA compliant)
- Ability to work both independently and within a multidisciplinary team
Why PTHA?
We are more than a clinic — we're a culturally grounded, patient-first health and wellness center serving the Indigenous community. We value teamwork, integrity, and community well-being. Here, your work has meaning.
- Work in a mission-driven, accredited organization with a team-based care environment
- Serve a close-knit patient population in an urban reservation setting
- Focus on meaningful, relationship-driven care, not just volume
- Enjoy opportunities for professional development and training
- Make a meaningful difference every day in the lives of families and community members
Perks of the Role:
- Meaningful Mission – Contribute to the financial wellness of a tribally operated health organization dedicated to serving the Indigenous community
- Competitive Compensation – Receive a fair salary that reflects your expertise and the impact of your work
- Supportive Team Culture – Join a collaborative and inclusive environment where respect and ethics are core values
- Cultural Enrichment – Work in an organization that values and integrates Indigenous traditions, community care, and cultural sensitivity
- Stability & Impact – Be part of a long-standing, accredited institution that plays a vital role in community health and development
PTHA Employee Benefits:
- Supportive environment that values a healthy work/life balance
- Medical/Dental/Vision monthly premiums paid 100% by PTHA for employees (health coverage begins the first of the month following hire date)
- (13) annual leave (vacation) days (13) annual sick leave days
- (18 ) annual paid holidays including a birthday holiday
- 401(k) with annual profit-sharing contributions after (2) years of service
- Life and AD&D insurance coverage
- Have student loans? PTHA is an approved loan repayment site for various student loan programs
At PTHA, you'll be part of an organization that values community, culture, and care. Your work will directly contribute to improving access and outcomes for community members. If you're ready to grow your career while making a lasting impact, we' encourage you to apply!
In accordance with federal law, Native American Preference in employment applies and job placements are given on a competitive basis, using job related factors.