Dental Assistant/Certified Dental Assistant

Mount Desert Island Hospital; Southwest Harbor (ME); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental/Vision/Life insurance

Retirement matching plan

Paid time off

Wellness program with incentives

Tuition reimbursement

Continuing education benefits

Possible sign-on bonus and relocation

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Mount Desert Island Hospital in Bar Harbor, ME, is seeking a Dental Assistant to join our care team. Under supervision, you will prepare patients for exams, assist the dentist during procedures, take dental histories and vital signs, and help with sterilization and inventory management.

We train the right candidate with a high school diploma. Strong communication, organizational skills, and comfort with computer systems are essential for success in our fast-paced, community-focused setting.

Qualifications

• High school diploma required; CPR certification preferred.
• Certification in Dental Assisting is not required; we will train the right candidate.
• Excellent written and verbal communication, strong organizational skills, and ability to multitask.
• Proficient with computers and able to work as part of a diverse, fast-paced team.

Responsibilities

• Prepare patients for dental examinations.
• Assist the Dentist during procedures.
• Obtain dental history and vital signs.
• Sterilize and prepare instruments and spaces.
• Maintain clinical supply inventory and place orders.

Skills

Communication

Organization

Computer skills

Team player

Education

High school diploma

CPR Certification (preferred)

Dental Assisting certification not required (training provided)

Job description

Description

Summary:

Under general supervision of the Dentist, the Dental Assistant works as a team member to ensure safe, high quality care. Duties include preparing patients for dental examinations, assisting the Dentist during procedures, obtaining dental history and vital signs, sterilizing equipment, maintaining clinical supply inventory and ordering.

Benefits:

MDI Hospital and Birch Bay Retirement Village offer a competitive salary, robust medical/dental/vision/life insurance, identity theft protection program, matching retirement plan, ample paid time off, a comprehensive award winning wellness program with reimbursement incentives, generous tuition reimbursement, and continuing education benefits. Some positions may qualify for a sign on bonus and relocation assistance.

EEO Statement:

MDI Hospital and Birch Bay Retirement Village provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment in all job classifications without regard to race, color, religion, age, mental disability, physical disability, medical condition, gender, sexual orientation, genetic information, ancestry, marital status, national origin, veteran status, and other classifications protected by applicable state and local non-discrimination laws.

About MDI Hospital

Rooted in Community. Inspired by Care.

Mount Desert Island Hospital isn't just a place where care is delivered - it is where care begins, where it grows, and where it connects us all. Located in the heart of Bar Harbor, surrounded by the rugged beauty of Acadia National Park, MDI Hospital is deeply woven into the fabric of island life. We're not just serving a community - we are the community.

A Place Where You Belong.

At MDI Hospital, every team member is more than a healthcare professional - they're a neighbor, a friend, a familiar face in the grocery store or on the hiking trail. We believe that healing happens best when people feel seen, supported, and valued. That's why we foster a workplace where everyone belongs, where voices are heard, and where your contributions truly matter.

Small Town Heart, Big Impact.

Though we serve a small, close-knit population, our reach is wide and our impact deep. We offer a full spectrum of care - from family medicine and behavioral health to emergency services and specialty care - all grounded in compassion and clinical excellence. Our partnerships with organizations like Penn Medicine and the MDI Biological Laboratory help us bring world-class resources to our rural setting.

A Culture of Connection.

We believe that wellness is a shared journey. Whether it is through community wellness programs, school-based health initiatives, or simply taking the time to listen, we're here to walk alongside our patients and each other. Our team is collaborative, mission-driven, and always ready to lend a hand - or an ear.

Come Grow With Us.

Working at MDI Hospital means being part of something bigger than yourself. It means joining a team that values your well-being, supports your growth, and celebrates your unique strengths. Whether you're new to the island or have called it home for years, you'll find a place here - not just to work, but to belong.

Requirements

Education, Training or Certifications Required:

• High school diploma
• CPR Certification and/or preferred
• Certification in Dental Assisting is not necessary. We will train the right candidate with a high school diploma.

Experience Required:

Not necessary. We will train the right candidate.

Special Requirements:

• Ability to effectively communicate in writing and verbally
• Strong organizational skills
• Able to handle numerous tasks at the same time and prioritize them
• Flexible
• Excellent time management skills
• Proficient with computers
• Capable of working as part of a diverse team in a fast paced environment

Cognitive Requirements:

Physical Demands:

• Work involves considerable exposure to unusual elements such as extreme temperatures, unpleasant odors and/or loud noises;
• Moderate physical activity. Requires handling average-weight objects up to 15-20 pounds, assisting with patients and standing and/or walking for most of the day.

Environment:

• Will work with blood or blood borne pathogens and will require OSHA training;
• Work environment involves exposure to potentially dangerous materials and situations that require following extensive safety precautions and may include the use of personal protective equipment.