Position Number: 22112180
County: Faulkner
Posting End Date: September 24, 2026
The Department of Human Services is a place for people passionate about serving others and changing lives for the better. We care for Arkansans of all ages and ensure places like child care centers and nursing homes are safe. We are the safety net for the most vulnerable Arkansans. Whether you answer the phones, take applications, protect children, or help care for residents or patients at one of our facilities, you make a difference by working at DHS. Plus, working for the State has great perks, including a pension, maternity leave, paid state holidays, and much more. At DHS, we take care of our employees so you can help care for others.
Position Information
Job Series: Health Trades
Classification: Dental Assistant– Independent
Class Code: THT02I
Pay Grade: SGS04
Salary Range: $43,088 - $63,770
Job Summary
The Dental Assistant supports licensed dentists in providing oral healthcare services within a state government healthcare facility, public health clinic, correctional institution, or other state-operated dental program. This role involves assisting with dental procedures, maintaining patient records, ensuring infection control, and providing patient education on oral health.
Primary Responsibilities
Assist dentists during exams, treatments, and surgical procedures by preparing instruments and materials.
Sterilize and maintain dental instruments and equipment according to infection control protocols.
Follow OSHA, CDC, and Arkansas Department of Health regulations for sterilization and infection control.
Clean and disinfect treatment rooms, chairs, and dental equipment between patients.
Document patient history, treatment progress, and procedural notes in electronic health records (EHR).
Provide patients with oral hygiene instructions, pre/post-procedure care, and preventive dental education.
Answer patient questions regarding dental treatments and procedures in a professional and courteous manner.
Knowledge and Skills
Understanding of dental terminology, procedures, and instruments.
Knowledge of OSHA and CDC protocols for preventing cross-contamination.
Proficiency in documenting patient treatments, maintaining charts, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Familiarity with dental software, electronic health records (EHR), and dental imaging systems.
Minimum Qualifications
High school diploma or GED required, plus at least one (1) year of experience in a dental clinic or healthcare setting
Licensure/Certifications
Must maintain active Arkansas dental assistant registration
OTHER JOB RELATED EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE MAY BE SUBSTITUTED FOR ALL OR PART OF THESE BASIC REQUIREMENTS, EXCEPT FOR CERTIFICATION OR LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS, UPON APPROVAL OF THE QUALIFICATIONS REVIEW COMMITTEE.
The State of Arkansas is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, citizenship, national origin, genetic information, military or veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.
