Are you a skilled and experienced Dental Assistant looking for a permanent, full-time opportunity in a prestigious academic environment? The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is currently seeking a Dental Assistant to join the Community Dentistry department at the Tygerberg Campus, Western Cape, South Africa. If you have the necessary qualifications, experience, and passion for patient care, this opportunity could be your next career step.
Dental Assistant Job Overview
- Position Title: Dental Assistant
- Post Number: 8021258 (S298)
- Faculty/Department: Dentistry -> Community Dentistry
- Type of Position: Permanent – Full Time
- Location: Tygerberg Campus, Western Cape, South Africa
- Closing Date: 11 February 2025
Dental Assistant Role Description
As a Dental Assistant at UWC, you will play an essential role in supporting students, staff, and faculty within the Community Dentistry department. Your primary responsibilities will include assisting during clinical procedures, maintaining infection control standards, administrative duties, and supporting outreach programs.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist both staff and students in the Community Dentistry department
- Prepare dental trays and materials for clinic sessions
- Ensure dental instruments are sterilized and returned for processing after each clinical session
- Disinfect treatment areas before and after patient care
- Maintain accurate patient records while ensuring confidentiality
- Book, confirm, and follow up on patient appointments
- Capture and submit patient statistics using MS Excel
- Ensure the smooth operation of the dental clinic, including infection control measures
- Monitor and prepare the mobile clinic, ensuring it is disinfected before and after treatment
- Sterilize instruments and manage equipment, materials, and medications for daily and outreach clinics
- Coordinate the ordering and stocking of dental-related items
- Support departmental and faculty outreach programs and activities
Minimum Requirements
To qualify for this role, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Educational Qualification
- Higher Certificate in Dental Assisting
Professional Registration
- Current Registration as a Dental Assistant with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA)
Experience
- Minimum 5 years of experience as a Dental Assistant after obtaining your qualification
Driver’s License
- Valid Code 8 driver’s license
- At least 2 years accident-free driving experience
Why Work at UWC?
The University of the Western Cape is renowned for its commitment to excellence in education, research, and community engagement. By joining Community Dentistry, you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to improving oral healthcare access and training future dental professionals.
Benefits of Working at UWC:
- Hands-on Experience in Patient Care – Gain valuable experience assisting students, staff, and patients in a clinical environment.
- Job Security and Stability – This is a permanent, full-time position at a well-established university.
- Competitive Salary and Benefits – UWC offers market-related remuneration and employee benefits.
- Professional Growth – Opportunities for continuous training and career development in a university setting.
- Exposure to Academic and Clinical Excellence – Work alongside leading professionals in dentistry and healthcare.
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Application Process
To apply, submit the following documents through the UWC online application portal:
- Cover letter motivating why you are the ideal candidate
- Detailed CV, including contact details of three referees
- Certified copies of your highest qualification and HPCSA registration certificate
Closing Date for Applications: 11 February 2025
For further information regarding this position (not applications), please contact:
- Professor D. Smit at (021) 937-3150
- Email: dsmit@uwc.ac.za
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Employment Equity and Additional Information
- UWC is committed to employment equity and aims to diversify its workforce
- The official retirement age at UWC is 65 years
- The University reserves the right to not make an appointment or conduct additional assessments
- By applying, candidates consent to their application details being shared with relevant stakeholders in line with UWC’s policies
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Dental Assistant to join a prestigious academic and clinical environment. If you have a passion for patient care, dental education, and community outreach, this role could be a perfect fit for you.
Do not miss this opportunity. Apply before 11 February 2025 and take the next step in your dental assisting career.
