Dental Assistant — Patient‑Centered Care & Sterilization

Saintjameshealth; Newark (NJ); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Saint James Health in Newark, NJ seeks a Dental Assistant to support dentists and hygienists in delivering patient-centered care. Responsibilities include chairside assisting, room prep, instrument sterilization, radiographs, and EHR documentation.

Qualified candidates have a high school diploma, dental assisting program, CPR/BLS, NJ radiology license, and 1–2 years in a community setting. CRCST certification preferred; willingness to obtain is required for sterilization duties.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Completion of an accredited Dental Assistant program preferred.
• Minimum of 1–2 years of dental assisting experience preferred, especially in a community health setting.
• Current NJ Dental Radiology License required (or ability to obtain within 6 months).
• Current CPR/BLS certification required.
• CRCST certification preferred; must obtain within 6 months if sterilization duties apply.
• CDA or RDA preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

• Assist dentists during examinations and procedures (chairside support).
• Prepare treatment rooms, instruments, and materials for patient care.
• Sterilize, disinfect, and maintain dental instruments per OSHA/CDC standards.
• Maintain documentation and QA related to instrument sterilization.
• Take dental radiographs (X-rays) as permitted by state regulations.
• Prepare patients for treatment and ensure comfort during procedures.
• Provide patient education on oral hygiene and post-treatment care.
• Maintain EHR documentation (EPIC/Wisdom).
• Manage operatory flow to support efficient scheduling and throughput.
• Monitor and restock dental supplies and equipment.
• Support front desk or administrative functions as needed.
• Support care delivery aligned with HRSA clinical quality standards.
• Assist with patient flow to reduce wait times.

Skills

Chairside assisting

Infection control

EPIC familiarity

Communication skills

Attention to detail

CRCST certification

Education

High school diploma

Accredited Dental Assistant program

NJ Dental Radiology License

Tools

EPIC system

Job description

Saint James Health in Newark, NJ seeks a Dental Assistant to support dentists and hygienists in delivering patient-centered care. Responsibilities include chairside assisting, room prep, instrument sterilization, radiographs, and EHR documentation.

Qualified candidates have a high school diploma, dental assisting program, CPR/BLS, NJ radiology license, and 1–2 years in a community setting. CRCST certification preferred; willingness to obtain is required for sterilization duties.