Public Health Office Assistant – Dental Clinic

Job Title: Public Health Office Assistant
Location: McMinnville, TN – Onsite
Job Type: Contract
Contract Duration: September 21, 2026 – September 30, 2027
Schedule: Monday–Thursday, 7:30 AM–5:00 PM; Friday, 7:30 AM–11:00 AM
Hours: Full-Time
Expenses: Allowed

Job Overview

We are seeking a Public Health Office Assistant to support administrative and front-office operations within a public health dental clinic. The ideal candidate will be customer-focused, self-motivated, organized, detail-oriented, and comfortable working in a healthcare environment.

The position will primarily support patient registration, appointment scheduling, check-in/check-out, eligibility verification, insurance authorization, record management, and communication with patients.

The candidate may also be required to travel within the region as needed.

Key Responsibilities

• Schedule and manage patient appointments.

• Inform patients of visit requirements and necessary documentation.

• Collect and update patient demographic information for registration.

• Review documentation to determine eligibility for federal and state programs.

• Enter and maintain patient information in health department management information systems.

• Work with multiple computer software systems to input and retrieve information.

• Process and balance the cash drawer accurately.

• Explain client rights and responsibilities related to participation in programs.

• Obtain prior authorization, as required, before releasing medical information.

• Assist with obtaining insurance prior authorization by gathering and submitting required documentation before services are provided.

• Compile appropriate forms and documentation for requested services.

• Scan and index records into the electronic dental record.

• Maintain accurate and organized patient records.

• Provide professional and courteous customer service.

• Maintain a positive, constructive, and cooperative work environment.

• Perform additional administrative duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent.

• Two years of full-time customer service and/or clerical/office work experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.

• Current valid driver's license required.

• Ability to successfully complete a required background check.

• Strong communication and customer service skills.

• Ability to work with multiple computer systems and databases.

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

Education Substitution

Coursework completed at an accredited college or university may substitute for the required experience on a year-for-year basis, up to a maximum of two years.

Preferred Qualifications

• Active Tennessee Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) license preferred.

• Previous dental front-office experience.

• Knowledge of dental terminology.

• Experience with dental appointment scheduling.

• Familiarity with dental insurance and insurance coding.

• Experience working in a healthcare or public health environment.

• Ability to assist chairside during emergencies or staffing shortages, if appropriately licensed.

Work Environment

• Onsite position in McMinnville, Tennessee.

• Full-time schedule.

• Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM–5:00 PM.

• Friday: 7:30 AM–11:00 AM.

• Candidate must be a Tennessee resident.

• Regional travel may be required as needed.