Lead Dental Assistant - Aiea

Kokua Smiles; Aiea (HI); On-site; USD 34,000 - 41,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Full-time hours

Opportunities for advancement

Mentorship and professional growth

Supportive team environment

Job summary

Kokua Smiles on Oʻahu is seeking an experienced Lead Dental Assistant to support doctors, guide the assisting team, and manage daily clinical operations. The role offers full-time hours and competitive pay in a collaborative, growth‑minded practice.

Join a locally focused dental group with multiple locations across Oʻahu and Rising Tide Dental Partners, emphasizing mentorship, development, and outstanding patient care. Prior lead experience preferred.

Qualifications

• Hands-on dental assisting experience required.
• Strong knowledge of general dentistry procedures, instruments, and sterilization workflows.
• Ability to guide teammates, communicate clearly, and take ownership of responsibilities.
• Strong organization and anticipation of doctors’ and patients’ needs.
• Dependability and professionalism with commitment to patient care.
• Willingness to receive feedback and support continuous improvement.
• Full-time availability, at least 36 hours per week.
• Lead or team-training experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Provide chairside assistance during general dentistry procedures.
• Lead and coordinate daily responsibilities for the dental assisting team.
• Support patient flow, operatory readiness, and efficient clinical schedules.
• Train and mentor assistants while reinforcing office protocols.
• Maintain sterilization, infection control, and clinical safety standards.
• Monitor dental supplies and assist with inventory and ordering.
• Communicate with doctors and the office manager to address clinical needs.
• Help patients feel informed, comfortable, and cared for throughout visits.

Skills

Dental assisting experience

Team leadership

Communication

Organization

Patient care

Feedback & problem solving

Commitment to patient care

Availability 36 hrs/week

Job description

About Kokua Smiles and Rising Tide Dental Partners

Kokua Smiles is a locally focused dental organization serving communities across Oʻahu through four convenient locations: Dental Care of Pearlridge, Honolulu Dental Care, Waiʻalae Dental Care, and Kāneʻohe Family Dental Care. Our teams are committed to providing compassionate, high-quality dental care while creating welcoming experiences for every patient who walks through our doors.

As part of Rising Tide Dental Partners, Kokua Smiles benefits from the resources, operational support, and professional development opportunities of a growing multi-practice dental organization while maintaining the community-centered culture and individualized care of its local offices.

We believe exceptional patient care begins with an exceptional team. That is why we invest in mentorship, continued education, leadership development, and meaningful opportunities for growth. Whether someone is beginning a career in dentistry or bringing years of experience to our organization, our goal is to provide a supportive environment where team members can build lasting careers, strengthen their skills, and make a positive difference in the communities we serve.

Are you an experienced Dental Assistant ready to take the next step in your career? At Kokua Smiles , we’re looking for a dependable, confident Lead Dental Assistant who can support our doctors, guide the assisting team, and help keep daily clinical operations running smoothly.

We are a privately owned, locally led, growing group of dental offices on Oahu. We offer consistent hours, opportunities for professional development, and a team that values accountability, collaboration, and excellent patient care.

This is a full-time position paying $25–$30 per hour, depending on experience.

What You’ll Do

• Provide chairside assistance during general dentistry procedures.
• Lead by example and help coordinate daily responsibilities for the dental assisting team.
• Support patient flow, operatory readiness, and efficient clinical schedules.
• Train and mentor assistants while reinforcing office protocols.
• Maintain sterilization, infection control, and clinical safety standards.
• Monitor dental supplies and help coordinate inventory and ordering.
• Communicate proactively with doctors and the office manager to address clinical needs.
• Help patients feel informed, comfortable, and cared for throughout their visits.

What We’re Looking For

• Previous hands-on dental assisting experience is required. This is not an entry-level position.
• Strong knowledge of general dentistry procedures, instruments, sterilization, and clinical workflows.
• The ability to guide teammates, communicate clearly, and take ownership of responsibilities.
• Strong organization and the ability to anticipate doctors’ and patients’ needs.
• Dependability, professionalism, and a commitment to patient care.
• A willingness to receive feedback, solve problems, and support continuous improvement.
• Availability to work full time, at least 36 hours per week, based on office scheduling needs.
• Previous lead or team-training experience is preferred.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay of $25–$30 per hour, based on experience
• Consistent, full-time hours
• Opportunities for advancement as our offices grow
• Ongoing mentorship and professional development
• A respectful, supportive team environment

Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $25–$30 per hour, depending on experience
Experience: Previous dental assisting experience required
Work Location: In person

The pay range for this role is:

25 - 30 USD per hour (Pearlridge Dental Care)