Position Title: Dentist

Employee Classification: Dentist

College/Division: DACC Dona Ana CC

Department: 940722-DACC DENTAL HYGIENE PROGRAM - HIRE

Internal or External Search: External - Open to all applicants

Location: Doña Ana Community College

Offsite Location (if applicable):

Target Hourly/Salary Rate:  $126,901.09 - $168,144.48; Commensurate with qualifications

Appointment Full-time Equivalency:  1.0

Exempt or Non-Exempt:  Exempt

Summary:  DACC, a responsive, accessible, comprehensive, learning-centered community college that provides education opportunities to a diverse community of learners is inviting candidates to apply for the following vacant position:

Classification Summary:
Provides dental treatment in accordance with the New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care Practice Act, ensuring high-quality, equitable patient care within a college setting that also supports the educational objectives of the dental assisting and dental hygiene programs.

Classification Standard Duties:
Performs direct patient care activities, including, both surgical and non-surgical procedures as established by the patients’ care/treatment plan. Performs treatment planning for specific patient care and ensures quality care is delivered throughout the process. Works with dental auxiliary staff and providers clear instructions to perform assigned duties, which support quality patient care. Develops, writes and documents prescriptions and patients’ progress notes based off performed dental procedures. Incorporates technology that enhance the patients’ level of care. Follows instructions and works with the department chair in developing and maintaining compliance, accreditation and state board regulations. Under the direction and in collaboration with the department chair, ensures that patient care, students’ education and to the goals and objectives of the program are met. Follows established departmental policies and procedures that include but not limited to objectives, continuous quality improvement, safety, environmental, and/or infection control standards. As appropriate to the position, participates in specified health promotion, education and/or prevention programs and supports the college, division and dental programs department faculty, staff and students

Required Education, Experience, Certification/License, Equivalency
Education: Doctorate degree in Dental Surgery (DDS) or Dental Medicine (DMD). Experience: At least one (1) year of professional experience directly related to the duties outlined above. Equivalency: Enrollment in a Dental Residency Program may be considered equivalent experience. Certification/License: Current licensure from the New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care is required.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
KNOWLEDGE: Knowledge of accreditation by the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA), certification requirements and the New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care practice act. Knowledge of community dental diagnostic and patient care services in area of dental expertise. Knowledge of relevant drugs and non-pharmaceutical patient care aids. Ability to prescribe medications as needed for dental related conditions, including, appropriate dosages and instruct patients in correct usage. Knowledge of current principles, methods and procedures for the delivery of dental evaluation, diagnosis and treatment in the area of expertise. Knowledge of legal and ethical standards for the delivery of dental surgical care. SKILLS: Effective verbal and written communication skills.; ABILITIES: Ability to observe, assess, and record symptoms, reactions, and progress. Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards. Ability to work both independently and in a team environment. Ability to supervise, advise, and train clinical professionals and/or students in area of expertise. Ability to work both independently and in a team environment. Ability to supervise and train employees, to include organizing, prioritizing, and in collaboration with the department chair, scheduling work assignments. Ability to foster a cooperative work environment. Ability to develop and present educational programs and/or workshops.

Job Duties and Responsibilities
The Dental Programs at NMSU-Doña Ana Community College are seeking a dedicated and skilled Dentist to join our team. The successful candidate will provide direct patient care and play a crucial role in the teaching and training of our dental assisting and dental hygiene students. The dentist will work closely with faculty, staff, and students, ensuring the highest standards of patient care and educational excellence. This position requires a commitment to working with individuals from diverse backgrounds, including patients with special health care needs.

Key Responsibilities:

Direct Patient Care: Provide comprehensive dental care, including diagnosis, treatment planning, and the performance of dental procedures. Ensure high-quality patient care across all clinical sites operated by the Dental Programs.

Student Education & Training: Assist in the instruction and clinical supervision of dental assisting and dental hygiene students. Provide mentorship and guidance to students, helping them develop their clinical skills and professional behaviors.

Collaborative Practice: Work collaboratively with the Dental Programs Department Chair and other faculty members to enhance the curriculum and clinical experiences for students. Participate in faculty meetings, curriculum development, and accreditation processes as needed.

Patient & Community Outreach: Participate in community outreach programs that provide dental services to underserved populations. Engage in activities that promote the dental health of the community and increase access to care.

Regulatory Compliance: Adhere to the regulations and guidelines set forth by the New Mexico Board of Dental Health Care. Ensure that the dental clinic and all associated activities comply with state and federal laws.

Professional Development: Stay current with the latest advancements in dental technology, techniques, and best practices. Engage in continuous professional development and participate in relevant continuing education opportunities.

Record-Keeping & Documentation: Maintain accurate and thorough patient records in compliance with legal and ethical standards. Ensure proper documentation of patient care, treatment plans, and follow-up.

Quality Assurance: Participate in quality assurance activities, including peer reviews, chart audits, and patient satisfaction surveys. Continuously strive to improve the quality of care provided.

Diversity & Inclusion: Foster an inclusive environment that respects and values diversity. Provide culturally competent care and education to patients and students from diverse backgrounds.

Technology & Equipment Management: Ensure the proper use and maintenance of dental equipment and technology. Provide input on the acquisition of new equipment and materials to enhance patient care and student learning.

Insurance Enrollment: The ideal candidate will be required to enroll in Medicaid reimbursement and other dental insurance programs to facilitate patient care and ensure accessibility to a broader patient base.

Other duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

Bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish.
Experience working in a teaching institution
Experience working with patients with special health care needs.
Prior experience in an academic or teaching environment.
Demonstrated ability to work effectively with individuals from diverse cultural, educational, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
Experience in community dental health or public dental health settings.
Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Commitment to the educational mission and goals of NMSU-Doña Ana Community College.

Special Requirements of the Position
Must pass a background check and drug screening as required by the college.
Must have or obtain CPR/BLS certification.
Must register and obtain a permit to administer Nitrous Oxide Inhalation Analgesia in New Mexico
Must have or obtain DEA certification
Flexibility to work occasional evenings or weekends as required by the program's needs

Department Contact:  McKenna Garcia, 575-527-7550, MCGarcia@dacc.nmsu.edu

Contingent Upon Funding: Not Applicable

Bargaining Unit Eligibility: This is NOT a bargaining unit position with American Federation of State, County & Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Standard Work Schedule: Standard (M-F, 8-5)

If Not a Standard Work Schedule: 

Working Conditions and Physical Effort

Environment: Work is normally performed in a typical interior/office work environment.

Physical Effort: Light physical effort. Effort applies to no more than two (2) hours per day.

Lifting Requirements: Requires handling of average-weight objects up to 10 pounds or some standing or walking.

Risk: Work environment involves some exposure to hazards or physical risks, which require following basic safety precautions.