Health Assistant 2 - Dental Assistant Trainee (Limited Duration)

Multnomah County • Portland, OR

1d • $25 - $30 • Onsite

About The Position

The Health Assistant 2 – Dental Assistant Trainee supports selected candidates in Multnomah County Health Department’s Integrated Clinical Services (ICS) Dental EFPDA/EFDA Training Program, a 9- to 12-month initiative intended to provide a pathway to dental assistant certification. Phase 1 involves coursework toward PrevDA/EFPDA certification; some coursework is completed on paid County time, and the County covers certification and examination fees, subject to a maximum of three attempts. After PrevDA certification, participants enter either the EFDA Track, which includes further training, or the Non-EFDA Track, which involves continued employment as an EFPDA/PrevDA. The County covers specified education, examination, application, and lab-attire costs. Participants commit to work for ICS/Multnomah County for two years following certification or completion of the trainee program, as applicable. Failure to meet training or employment obligations may require full or prorated reimbursement of educational expenses.

The position supports dentists and dental hygienists in providing care to patients, including people who experience barriers to accessing care. Duties include learning clinical assisting procedures, supporting patient flow and communication, and maintaining infection control and clinical supplies. Positions may be located at one of six Multnomah County dental clinics in Portland or Gresham. The tentative program start date is November 17, 2026. This limited-duration position may last up to two years and is eligible for overtime.

Requirements

• High school completion or GED certificate; a college or university degree may substitute.
• One to four years of experience demonstrating the ability to perform the duties, or equivalent qualifying training and/or experience.
• At least one year of customer service or customer/public-facing experience.
• No previous formal dental assisting training.
• Submit a cover letter describing interest, skills, and strengths relevant to the dental assistant program, and understanding of the program’s requirements and expectations.
• Commit to actively participating in and successfully completing the program and to working as an EFPDA/EFDA within ICS Dental for two years post-enrollment, as described in the posting.
• Submit a resume demonstrating minimum qualifications and a copy of a high school completion or GED certificate; a college or university degree may substitute.
• Submit a copy of BLS CPR certification if available; otherwise obtain certification within 60 days of hire.
• Current Multnomah County Health Department employees applying internally must be in good standing and have passed their probationary period.

Responsibilities

• Learn and provide direct clinical assistance and support to dentists and dental hygienists.
• Under the guidance of a certified employee, learn to perform four-handed dentistry, mix materials, place rubber dams, take study model impressions, and take diagnostic x-rays.
• Triage emergency patients and communicate patients’ needs to providers.
• Provide patients with oral hygiene instructions and information about healthy food choices.
• Attend classes promptly, participate in classroom activities and discussions, meet assignment deadlines, and maintain a disciplined study routine for exams.
• Set up and disinfect operatories and ensure instruments and supplies are available for patient care.
• Clean and sterilize instruments according to infection control guidelines.
• Report repair needs, follow personal protective equipment guidelines, and monitor inventory levels.
• Interact respectfully and courteously with patients.
• Monitor client wait times and keep patients informed about schedule delays.
• Conduct phone follow-up and documentation for missed patient appointments.
• Act as a liaison with treatment staff and providers.
• Bring conduct that interferes with a work environment free of illegal discrimination and harassment to the County’s attention.

Benefits

• The County covers educational and certification expenses associated with the program, including specified tuition, books, examination and certification application fees, and required lab attire, subject to program terms.
• Some coursework is completed on paid County time.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED