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Dental Assistant Extern Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Winter 2026 Student Nurse Externship

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

The Nurse Extern utilizes the nursing process to assist the professional nurse in performing direct ... Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage. * Financial Security: Retirement savings ...

Dental Assistant Extern information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$12

$20

$29

How much do dental assistant extern jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for dental assistant extern in Decatur, GA is $20.32, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.88 and $23.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dental assistant extern?

Dental Assistant Externs are students or recent graduates who participate in a supervised, hands-on training experience at a dental office as part of their dental assisting education. This externship allows them to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world setting, assisting dentists and dental staff with patient care, sterilization, and administrative duties. Externships are typically unpaid and are required by most dental assisting programs to ensure that future dental assistants gain practical skills before entering the workforce.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dental assistant extern?

To thrive as a Dental Assistant Extern, you need foundational knowledge of dental procedures, infection control, and patient care, often gained through a dental assisting program or coursework. Familiarity with dental instruments, chairside assisting, and dental software like Dentrix or Eaglesoft is typically expected. Strong communication, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn make candidates stand out in externship placements. These skills ensure safe, efficient support for dental teams and a positive experience for patients during clinical training.

What should I expect when transitioning from classroom learning to hands-on experience as a dental assistant extern?

As a Dental Assistant Extern, you'll shift from theoretical studies to practical, real-world tasks in a dental office. You can expect to observe and assist with procedures like sterilizing instruments, preparing treatment rooms, and supporting dentists during patient care. Adapting to the fast-paced environment and learning to communicate effectively with both patients and staff are common challenges. You'll work closely with experienced dental professionals who can provide feedback and mentorship, which is a valuable opportunity for skill-building and confidence growth.

What is the difference between Dental Assistant Extern vs Dental Assistant?

AspectDental Assistant ExternDental Assistant
CredentialsTypically enrolled in or completing dental assisting program, may have temporary certificationCertified or licensed dental assistant with completed training and certification
Work EnvironmentExternship setting, often in dental offices as part of trainingFull-time or part-time employment in dental clinics or offices
Employer & Industry UsageUsed during training period, often unpaid or low-paidHired as a professional staff member with responsibilities
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding training status and experience levelSeeking employment or career info

The main difference between a Dental Assistant Extern and a Dental Assistant is that externs are typically students in training gaining hands-on experience, often during an internship or externship, while dental assistants are fully trained and certified professionals working in dental offices. Externs are in a learning phase, whereas dental assistants are employed with established responsibilities.

Do you get paid for your dental assistant externship?

Dental assistant externships are typically unpaid or offer a stipend, as they are considered training experiences rather than paid employment. However, some programs may provide compensation or academic credit; it varies by program and institution. It's important to clarify the specific externship's compensation details before participating.

How to advance your career as a dental assistant extern?

To advance as a dental assistant extern, gaining additional certifications such as expanded functions or radiography can improve job prospects. Building strong clinical skills, demonstrating professionalism, and seeking mentorship or additional training can also help in career progression within dental practices.

What job categories do people searching Dental Assistant Extern jobs in Decatur, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Dental Assistant Extern jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Dental Assistant Extern jobs?

Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Dental Assistant Extern job openings:

Winter 2026 Student Nurse Externship

Atlanta, GA • On-site

$16.25 - $19.25/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Nurse Extern Opportunity at Grady

Whatever the role, everyone at Grady is part of something bigger. Choosing a career at Grady is choosing to be part of a legacy of service and commitment to our communities. If you want to make a difference, we want to hear from you.

Job Summary

Under the direction of a Registered Professional Nurse, the Nurse Extern is responsible for providing age-appropriate, culturally and ethnically sensitive care, maintaining a safe environment, educating patients and their families about healthy practices and treatment modalities, assuring continuity of care, coordinating the care across settings and among caregivers, managing information, communicating effectively, and utilizing technology. The Nurse Extern utilizes the nursing process to assist the professional nurse in performing direct and indirect nursing activities to patients of various age groups (neonatal to geriatric). This includes the components of assessment, nurse diagnosis, outcomes identification, planning and coordination, implementation, and evaluation. The role of the nurse extern also includes, patient advocacy, teaching, performance improvement, leadership and professional development.

Qualifications

High School Diploma or GED is required. Current unofficial transcript from a NLN accredited RN program must be submitted at time of application. (A minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA is required) Successfully completed a nursing fundamentals course as part of a NLN accredited RN program Two letters of recommendation from a clinical manager or a professor, must be submitted at the time of application. Must be currently enrolled in an ADN/ASN, BSN, or MSN nursing program with at least one full academic year remaining and not currently licensed as a registered nurse Basic Life Support (BLS) (American Heart Association) certification is required and must be submitted at time of application.

Core Competencies

Patient-Centered Care – Demonstrates a commitment to delivering safe, compassionate, and high-quality care that prioritizes the well-being and satisfaction of patients and their families. Integrity & Accountability – Acts ethically, maintains confidentiality, and accepts responsibility for actions, decisions, and outcomes. Collaboration & Teamwork – Builds positive relationships, works effectively across departments, and supports colleagues to achieve shared goals. Communication – Communicates clearly, respectfully, and effectively with patients, families, colleagues, and leadership. Respect & Inclusion – Creates an inclusive environment by valuing diversity, treating others with dignity, and ensuring equitable care and opportunities for all. Quality & Safety – Adheres to best practices, regulatory standards, and policies to ensure safe, reliable, and high-quality outcomes. Adaptability & Resilience – Responds effectively to change, remains flexible in dynamic situations, and demonstrates resilience under pressure. Continuous Improvement – Seeks opportunities to improve processes, skills, and outcomes through innovation, learning, and feedback. Leadership & Professionalism – Inspires, guides, and develops individuals and teams while modeling professionalism, fairness, and transparency. Employee Experience Focus – Champions a supportive and engaging employee journey that enables staff to thrive and, in turn, deliver exceptional patient care.

Grady Total Rewards

At Grady, we believe in supporting the health, well-being, and growth of every team member. Our Total Rewards package is designed to provide competitive pay and comprehensive benefits that make a difference in your life and career, including:

  • Health & Wellness: Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage.
  • Financial Security: Retirement savings plans with employer contributions, life insurance, and disability coverage.
  • Work-Life Balance: Paid time off, holidays, and family leave benefits.
  • Career Growth: Tuition reimbursement, professional development programs, and opportunities for advancement.
  • Employee Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP), wellness initiatives, and discounts on services.

Grady's Total Rewards are designed to ensure our employees feel valued, supported, and empowered, both at work and beyond.

Why Join Grady?

Grady Health System is more than a hospital — we are a vital part of Atlanta and the surrounding communities. For over 125 years, Grady has been committed to providing exceptional care, advancing health equity, and making a difference in the lives of those we serve. When you join Grady, you become part of a team that values excellence, compassion, innovation, and collaboration.

Here, every role matters. Whether you provide direct patient care, support our operations, or lead teams, you play an important part in fulfilling our mission. We offer opportunities to learn, grow, and build a meaningful career in an environment where your contributions are recognized and valued.

At Grady, we don't just work, we make an impact.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Grady Health System is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering a workforce where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to succeed. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. Grady is dedicated to creating an accessible work environment and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities to ensure equitable opportunities for success.