Job Description

Posting Details
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Institution The University of South Dakota
Working Title Licensed Dental Assistant
Posting Number CSA02550P
Department USD-Dental Hygiene
Physical Location of Position (City) Sioux Falls
Posting Text
The Department of Dental Hygiene at the University of South Dakota (USD) is seeking a Dental Assistant to join our Sioux Falls Clinic. This position primarily provides chairside dental assisting, manages dental insurance coordination, and offers front desk support as needed. The role is essential to maintaining patient care quality, accurate insurance processing, and smooth clinic operations while supporting dental hygiene students in a teaching environment. This position is 90% time, Monday through Thursday from 7:30am to 5:30pm.
Key Responsibilities:
Dental Assisting

• Provide chairside assistance to dentists and dental hygienists.
• Seat patients, pass instruments, and prepare dental materials.
• Take and develop intraoral and extraoral radiographs.
• Maintain infection control by disinfecting operatories and sterilizing instruments.
• Provide oral hygiene instruction to patients and supervise students during clinical procedures.

Insurance Coordination

• Verify patient insurance benefits and eligibility prior to appointments.
• Submit and follow up on claims, preauthorizations, and denials.
• Communicate with insurance companies and patients regarding coverage and financial responsibilities.

Front Desk / Administrative Support (As Needed)

• Assist with patient check-in/check-out and scheduling.
• Update patient records and process payments.
• Provide general administrative support to ensure a smooth clinic workflow.

Qualifications:

• Current Licensed Dental Assistant in the State of South Dakota.
• Knowledge of dental assisting procedures, radiography, infection control, and dental insurance processes.
• Strong multitasking, communication, and organizational skills.

Why Join Us:

• Opportunity to work in a teaching environment supporting the next generation of dental hygienists.
• Collaborative team environment with professional development opportunities.
• State health insurance and benefits including:

• Annual leave for personal time off.
• Sick leave to support health and well-being.
• 11 paid holidays.
• Retirement plan with 6% matching.

Posting Date 12/11/2025
Closing Date
Open Until Filled Yes
First Consideration Date 12/18/2025
Advertised Salary $21.50 - $23.49
Duration of the Term 12 months
If Other, describe duration
Appointment Percent 90 (Monday-Thursday)
Work Hours
90% time (4 days per week)
Possible days are Monday - Thursday
7:30am-5:30pm with lunch hour
Typical Hours Worked Per Week
Appointment Type Regular
Scope of Search External (includes Internal)
If internal, define scope of search
This position requires Other
If other, please indicate State Licensure, BLS Certification
Department Description and Cultural Expectations
The University of South Dakota Department of Dental Hygiene is a leading dental hygiene program committed to providing high-quality patient care, student education, and innovative dental services. We are seeking a skilled Licensed Dental Assistant to join our team in a hybrid role combining clinical assisting, insurance coordination, and administrative support.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
USD is committed to fostering a dynamic and welcoming working and learning environment for all. USD provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to ideological, political, or sectarian opinions or perspectives; or race, color, creed, religion, sex, ancestry, disability, national origin or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. USD is committed to the principles of free expression and encourages the timely and rational discussion of topics in an environment that is intellectually and ideologically diverse.
Contact Information

Skills Required