Certified Dental Assistant

Title: Certified Dental AssistantPractice: Rochester Oral Surgery Location: Rochester, NY

Anticipated Schedule

• Monday–Thursday: 8-hour shifts

• Friday: 6-hour shift

• Saturday: One Saturday per month, as scheduled

Pay: Starting at $25.00 - $28.00 per hour based on experience 

Position Purpose:

The Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) is responsible for delivering compassionate, safe, and high-quality clinical care in support of the oral and maxillofacial surgeons. This role requires advanced clinical competency, strong knowledge of surgical protocols, and the ability to anticipate surgeon needs during procedures. The CSA ensures efficient surgical workflow, maintains patient comfort and safety, and upholds the highest standards of clinical excellence and regulatory compliance.

Essential Functions: 

Patient Care & Clinical Support

• Provide exemplary patient care and ensure the highest level of service during all interactions.
• Communicate with patients and families in a professional, empathetic, and educational manner.
• Prepare patients for surgical procedures, including reviewing medical histories, confirming documentation, and ensuring patient understanding of pre- and post-operative instructions.
• Assist oral surgeons throughout all surgical procedures, anticipating needs, maintaining sterile technique, and ensuring all instruments and materials are available and functional.
• Monitor and record patient vital signs during surgery, reporting concerns promptly.
• Provide postoperative care and patient education, ensuring clear communication of aftercare instructions.

Surgical & Clinical Operations

• Set up, maintain, and break down surgical operatories following strict aseptic and safety protocols.
• Sterilize, organize, and maintain surgical instruments, equipment, and supplies.
• Maintain accurate and timely documentation of all patient encounters and surgical procedures.
• Demonstrate strong knowledge of surgical instrumentation, oral surgery procedures, and infection control standards.
• Support sedation and anesthesia workflows in compliance with practice and regulatory requirements.

Compliance, Safety & Quality Assurance

• Adhere to all clinical, OSHA, HIPAA, and infection control standards.
• Participate in monthly safety and compliance checks, including:
• Crash cart/verifications
• Fire extinguisher checks
• Emergency preparedness attestations
• X-ray unit calibration
• Omni-cam calibration
• Controlled substance log accuracy and inventory
• Oxygen tank maintenance
• Controlled substance invoice documentation
• Ensure strict adherence to controlled substance handling and safety procedures.

Teamwork & Professional Development

• Foster a collaborative, respectful, and professional team environment.
• Participate in regular staff meetings, training sessions, and continuing education as required.
• Support workflow efficiency by maintaining organized, clean, and fully stocked clinical areas.

Qualifications:

Education & Certification

• High School Diploma or equivalent required; relevant college coursework preferred.
• Certified Surgical Assistant (CSA) credential required (or equivalent surgical assisting certification).
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS) certification required; training provided if not current.
• ACLS or DAANCE certification preferred (or willingness to obtain).

Experience:

• Previous experience in oral surgery or dental surgical assisting preferred; will provide training for candidates meeting certification requirements.

Performance Requirements:

• Advanced knowledge of oral surgery procedures, surgical instruments, and sterile techniques.
• Strong ability to anticipate surgeon needs and respond quickly in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and patient-interaction skills.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and exercise sound judgment.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy in clinical documentation.
• Proficiency with computer systems, electronic health records, and digital imaging.
• Ability to work independently while supporting a high-performance team environment.
• Positive, professional, and adaptable demeanor.

DISCLAIMER

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by people assigned to this work.  This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities.  OPS’s management reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities to meet business and organizational needs as necessary.