ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Dental Assistant Jobs in Decatur, AL

Aspen Dental

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Athens, AL · On-site

$16 - $19/hr

When you join our team as an Entry-Level Dental Assistant , you will have the opportunity to give back to communities and positively affect patients' lives. Salary: $16 - $19 / hour Job Type ...

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

Entry Level NDT Assistant

Decatur, AL · On-site

$36K - $46K/yr

NDT Assistants will assist in performing calibrations, Nondestructive Tests, and evaluations for ... Medical, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance * 401K Plan * Paid Holidays * Paid Time Off ...

Acuren Inspection, Inc.

Entry Level NDT Assistant

Decatur, AL · On-site

$36K - $46K/yr

NDT Assistants will assist in performing calibrations, Nondestructive Tests, and evaluations for ... Medical, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance * 401K Plan * Paid Holidays * Paid Time Off ...

Morgan Metals Inc

Production Assistant

Athens, AL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

... an entry-level position with excellent opportunities to learn a trade, get cross-trained and ... Benefits: Health, Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, Disability, PTO, Holidays Responsibilities:

CraneWorks, Inc

Wash Pad and Yard Assistant

Decatur, AL · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

This is an entry-level position that plays an important role in maintaining the appearance ... Our benefits include: • Competitive pay • Medical, dental, and vision insurance • Voluntary ...

CraneWorks

Wash Pad and Yard Assistant

Decatur, AL

$14 - $17/hr

This is an entry-level position that plays an important role in maintaining the appearance ... Competitive pay Medical, dental, and vision insurance Voluntary short-term disability insurance ...

CraneWorks, Inc

Wash Pad and Yard Assistant

Decatur, AL · On-site

$14 - $17/hr

This is an entry-level position that plays an important role in maintaining the appearance ... Our benefits include: · Competitive pay · Medical, dental, and vision insurance · Voluntary ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDental JobsEntry Level Dental Assistant JobsEntry Level Dental Assistant Jobs in Decatur, AL

Entry Level Dental Assistant information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$10

$18

$24

How much do entry level dental assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level dental assistant in Decatur, AL is $18.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.48 and $20.19 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level dental assistant?

Entry level dental assistants are professionals who support dentists and dental hygienists in clinical and administrative tasks, typically at the beginning of their careers. Their duties often include preparing examination rooms, sterilizing instruments, assisting during dental procedures, and managing patient records. They usually work under the supervision of more experienced dental staff and receive on-the-job training. Entry level dental assistants play a critical role in ensuring efficient dental office operations and patient care.

What does an entry level dental assistant do?

As an entry-level dental assistant, you have numerous responsibilities in a dental office. You primarily focus clerical and administrative duties, such as scheduling patients for appointments, filing medical records, filling out billing invoices and insurance reimbursement forms, and ensuring that the office inventory is adequate. However, you also have clinical duties in which you assist the dentist with routine tasks. You sterilize tools, prepare the exam rooms, provide suction during teeth cleaning and other procedures, help make the patients comfortable, conduct simple lab tests, and take x-rays and process them.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level dental assistant?

To thrive as an Entry Level Dental Assistant, you need basic knowledge of dental procedures, infection control, and a high school diploma or equivalent, often supplemented by a dental assisting certification. Familiarity with dental software, digital X-ray systems, and sterilization equipment is typically expected in this role. Strong communication, attention to detail, and a calm, patient-focused demeanor help you excel in assisting both dentists and patients. These skills ensure efficient dental operations, patient comfort, and compliance with safety standards in a clinical environment.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level dental assistants during their first year on the job?

Entry-level dental assistants often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced environment of a dental clinic, mastering infection control protocols, and learning the preferences of different dentists. It's common to feel overwhelmed by the variety of instruments and procedures at first, but most clinics provide hands-on training and mentorship. Building strong communication skills and attention to detail will help you succeed and grow more confident in your role over time.

What is the difference between Entry Level Dental Assistant vs Dental Hygienist?

AspectEntry Level Dental AssistantDental Hygienist
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, dental assisting certificationAssociate degree in dental hygiene, licensure
Work EnvironmentDental offices, assisting dentistsDental offices, patient cleanings and exams
Employer & Industry UsageCommon entry role in dental practicesMore advanced, patient-focused role in dental practices

Entry Level Dental Assistants typically require a high school diploma and certification, working closely with dentists to prepare patients and assist during procedures. Dental Hygienists, on the other hand, need an associate degree and licensure, focusing on patient oral health assessments and cleanings. While both roles work in dental offices, Dental Hygienists have more advanced responsibilities and require additional education and licensing.

Can I get an entry level dental assistant job with no experience?

Entry level dental assistant positions often do not require prior experience, as employers typically provide on-the-job training. However, having a high school diploma, basic knowledge of dental procedures, and certification in CPR can improve your chances of securing a job. Strong communication skills and a willingness to learn are also important for entry-level candidates.
More about Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL?

For Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs in Decatur, AL are:

What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs?

Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Entry Level Dental Assistant job openings:

Entry Level Dental Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Dental Assistant job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 87% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,691 per year, or $18.1 per hour.

Dental Assistant - Entry Level

Aspen Dental

Athens, AL

$16 - $19/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 29 days ago

Aspen Dental rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 464 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

668th of 895 rated healthcare providers

Job description

At Aspen Dental, we put You First, offering the security and job stability that comes with working with a world-class dental service organization (DSO).  Our best-in-class training program, generous benefits package, and flexible scheduling will help you thrive in your career.  When you join our team as an Entry-Level Dental Assistant, you will have the opportunity to give back to communities and positively affect patients’ lives. 

Salary: $16 - $19 / hour

Job Type: Full-Time

At Aspen Dental, we put You First.  We offer:

  • A pathway for you to become a DANB Certified Dental Assistant (CDA) to maximize your career potential
  • Part-time, Full-time, flexible scheduling available*
  • Paid training to become radiology and safety certified through our partnership with the Dental Assisting National Board (DANB)
  • Paid time off and holidays, Health, Vision, and 401(k) savings plan
  • Free Continuing Education (CE) through TAG U

How You’ll Make a Difference

As an Entry-Level Dental Assistant, you will help support the clinical needs of the practice’s patients and doctors. You will have the support and training you need to help you be successful, no matter your level of expertise.   We are committed to promoting from within to allow you to expand your career and your life.  You can help make a difference in your community one smile at a time. 

  • Assist during a variety of treatment procedures
  • Set up and breakdown operatory post treatment
  • Manage infection control – prepare and sterilize instruments and equipment
  • Supports patient charting for Doctors
  • Perform various office tasks as necessary
  • Collaborate with other members of the dental team to provide exceptional patient care

Qualifications:

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Obtain your radiology and safety certification within the required timeframe for the state of practice
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with patients of all ages and backgrounds
  • Commitment to ongoing learning and professional development

Aspen Dental-branded practices are independently owned and operated by licensed dentists. The practices receive non-clinical business support services from Aspen Dental Management, Inc., a dental support organization.

*May vary by independently owned and operated Aspen Dental locations.

ADMI Corp., d/b/a TAG-The Aspen Group, its affiliates, related companies and independently owned supported clinical practices are proud to be Equal Opportunity Employers and welcome everyone to apply.  All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.

What Aspen Dental employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply