University Overview

The University of Pennsylvania, the largest private employer in Philadelphia, is a world-renowned leader in education, research, and innovation. This historic, Ivy League school consistently ranks among the top 10 universities in the annual U.S. News & World Report survey. Penn has 12 highly-regarded schools that provide opportunities for undergraduate, graduate and continuing education, all influenced by Penn’s distinctive interdisciplinary approach to scholarship and learning.

Penn offers a unique working environment within the city of Philadelphia. The University is situated on a beautiful urban campus, with easy access to a range of educational, cultural, and recreational activities. With its historical significance and landmarks, lively cultural offerings, and wide variety of atmospheres, Philadelphia is the perfect place to call home for work and play.

The University offers a competitive benefits package that includes excellent healthcare and tuition benefits for employees and their families, generous retirement benefits, a wide variety of professional development opportunities, supportive work and family benefits, a wealth of health and wellness programs and resources, and much more.

Job Profile Title

Dental Assistant B

Job Description Summary

Penn Dental brings you in-depth experience and knowledge in the art and science of dental medicine. You benefit from a team of experts who not only teach the next generation of dentists, but also practice using the leading techniques in patient care. Penn Dental includes practitioners who also serve at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and the Hospitals of the University of Pennsylvania – a team of outstanding oral health professionals who provide multi-specialty care beyond your expectations.

About Penn Dental Family Practice

At Penn Dental we have over 35 doctors and specialize in all areas of dentistry. You can rest assured that you are being treated by the best of the best! 

Job Description

• Demonstrate competence in four-handed dentistry technique, level of knowledge & proficiency in use of current dental materials, instruments and equipment. Demonstrated ability to follow instructions & work effectively under both direct & indirect supervision. Demonstrate efficiency, timeliness and organization in use of time and effort.
• Work effectively and consistently with Penn community (e.g., students, faculty, staff), Remain calm in stressful situations; Consistently demonstrate pleasant & respectful disposition that puts people at ease. Ensure operation of dental equipment by completing preventive maintenance requirements; following manufacturer's instructions; troubleshooting malfunctions; calling for repairs; maintaining equipment inventories; evaluating new equipment and techniques as needed.
• Treat all fairly & respectfully; Work effectively with others, regardless of their background, position, or status; Respect different values & viewpoints. Work collegially with others, cooperating in both interpersonal & team relationships; Foster enthusiasm & maintain mutual trust, candor & respect. Support the front desk when needed & other duties as assigned.
• Maintain & enhance professional standards for role through acquisition of PA EFDA license, Orthodontic Assistant Certification, etc. Set-up & breakdown of operators using infection control standards. Help dentist manage dental & medical emergencies by maintaining CPR certification, crash cart, emergency drug & oxygen supply, & emergency contacts. Maintain patient confidence & protects department by keeping information confidential.
• Support fellow team members through timely customer service, clear communication & accountability on tasks. Prepare orthodontic diagnostic data, digital imaging, digital intraoral & diagnostic photos, change & trim wires, size bands, sterilization, prepare teeth for bracket placement, scanning diagnostic models, and provide clear orthodontic instructions.
• Accurately utilize axiUm & X-Ray equipment, Provide diagnostic information by exposing & developing radiographic studies including but not limited to pouring, trimming, & polishing study casts. Sanitize chairs, disinfect patient areas, inventory instruments, pull barriers off, & suction mgmt. Maintain dental supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level; anticipating needed supplies; placing and expediting orders for supplies; verifying receipt & inventory of supplies.
• Positively greet patients, support student learning/teaching mission & collaborate effectively with diverse patient, staff, student & faculty groups. Prepare patient for treatment by welcoming, comforting, seating, & draping patient. Support infection control by sterilizing & delivering instruments to treatment area; Accurately & efficiently position instruments for dentist's access including prompt chair sanitizing, suctioning, passing instruments & supply ordering as needed.

To legally operate dental x-ray equipment and perform dental radiographic procedures in Pennsylvania under the direct supervision of a licensed dentist, a dental assistant must meet the requirements shown below.

• Radiography Requirements

In Pennsylvania, a dental assistant must:

1. Pass the national DANB Radiation Health and Safety (RHS) exam

Evidence of having passed the required exam should be retained by the dental assistant and the licensed dentist as evidence of the individual’s authority to perform radiologic procedures.

Qualifications for Dental Assistant B

Qualifications for Dental Assistant C

• Technical School, Dental Assistant certification, x-ray certification, training or apprenticeship required beyond high school and 3 - 5 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
• Must be CPR and X-Ray certified, as well as trained and certified to provide chairside assistance for orthodontics residents and faculty.
• EFDA or CDA certification preferred.
• Must have 2-3 years previous dental assisting experience, CDA preferred.
• Knowledgeable in OSHA standards, aseptic procedures, HIPAA regulations, sterilization,
• infection control, and all dental procedures and supplies.
• Professional appearance and strong communication, facilitation, and organizational skills a must.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and customer service skills.
• Excellent listening and organization skills; ability to multi-task.
• Must exhibit excellent work ethics and maintain honesty and integrity.
• Ability to work with others in a close manner; teamwork is essential.
• Ability to adapt to change and meet the unexpected needs and demands.
• Must also have basic computer skills and experience with AxiUm software is preferred.
• An associate’s degree or two year college equivalent and 3-5 years of experience or equivalent combination of education and experience is required.
• The qualified candidate must possess current CPR and EFDA Pennsylvania State Board Certification and be committed to on-going continuing education to keep CPR and EFDA certificates in good standing.

Job Location - City, State

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Department / School

School of Dental Medicine

Pay Range

$16.23 - $29.21

Affirmative Action Statement 

Penn adheres to a policy that prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, citizenship status, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected class.

Special Requirements 

Background check required after a conditional job offer is made. Consideration of the background check will be tailored to the requirements of the job.