What are the responsibilities and job description for the Dental Assistant position at VERNON J HARRIS EAST END COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER?
Dental Assistant
Capital Area Health Network (CAHN)
Richmond, VA — On‑Site Position
Make a real impact with Capital Area Health Network (CAHN), a dynamic and growing Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) located in the heart of Richmond, VA. We’re expanding our team and seeking talented, mission‑driven professionals who want to elevate community health. At CAHN, we innovate, we serve with purpose, and we are just better. Step into a role where your work creates lasting change.
Our Core Values
Compassion – We treat every person with dignity and fairness, ensuring no one feels alienated or discriminated against.
Accountability – We safeguard confidentiality and remain transparent with all stakeholders.
Reverence – We are called to serve and uplift those in need while fostering mutual respect.
Excellence – We commit to continuous learning to deliver culturally responsive, high‑quality care.
Stewardship – We manage resources responsibly for the benefit of our organization and community.
Who We Are
CAHN provides comprehensive primary care, dental services, and behavioral health support, ensuring every person receives the quality care they deserve—regardless of background or circumstance.
Our Mission:
To deliver effective, accessible, and culturally responsive care, education, and advocacy that promote health and quality of life.
Discover a place where your work makes a difference.
Discover Capital Area Health Network.
Job Summary
The Dental Assistant provides high‑quality care and service to patients by directly supporting dentists and other dental team members in a variety of clinical, office, and laboratory duties. This role ensures that every patient enjoys a positive experience and is treated with compassion, professionalism, and respect.
Essential Functions
- Assist the dentist chair‑side, including preparing and organizing instruments and materials.
- Take clinically acceptable X‑rays as requested and manage digital radiographs.
- Prepare, sterilize, and maintain dental instruments, equipment, and materials.
- Collect and record dental and medical health histories for provider review.
- Provide patients with post‑procedure instructions and education.
- Complete post‑visit duties and ensure proper documentation.
- Demonstrate knowledge of dental procedures, infection control, sterilization, tray setup, and materials.
- Maintain compliance with OSHA and HIPAA guidelines.
- Communicate effectively with staff, providers, and patients.
- Interact positively with a diverse patient population.
- Demonstrate the skills necessary to meet patients’ physical, educational, and safety needs.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Schedule
- Monday-Tuesday 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
Wednesday-Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. - Occasional extended hours
- On-site position
Benefits at CAHN
We value our team, and it shows in our comprehensive benefits package:
Health Coverage
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Secondary Gap Insurance
- Prescription Drug Plan
- Supplemental Policies through Colonial Life
Financial Security
- 401(k) Retirement Plan with up to 3% Company Match
- Employer‑Sponsored Short‑Term Disability
- Employer‑Paid Life and AD&D Insurance
Work‑Life Balance
- Paid Time Off (PTO) accrued beginning Day 1
- Self‑Care Floating Holidays
- 8.5 Paid Holidays
Additional Support
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) eligibility
We are committed to supporting your well‑being—at work and beyond.
Education & Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- CPR Certification required.
- DANB Certification preferred
- Radiation Certification required.
- Associate or bachelor's degree in healthcare administration, business, or a related field preferred.
Qualifications
To perform this job successfully, individuals must be able to carry out each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed represent the knowledge, skills, abilities, and other characteristics necessary for the role. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Work Environment & ADA Notice
This position may involve exposure to infectious agents, including HIV, hepatitis, and tuberculosis. Essential job duties are listed above and may be modified as needed under applicable ADA guidelines. Employees may be required to perform other job‑related responsibilities as assigned and may request reasonable accommodations at any time.