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Entry Level Dental Assistant Jobs in Decatur, AL

Benefits: Dental insurance Health insurance Opportunity for advancement Paid time off Training ... What You'll Do Safely load, unload, and transport furniture, boxes, and equipment Assist with ...

Dental insurance * Health insurance * Opportunity for advancement * Paid time off * Training ... What You'll Do Safely load, unload, and transport furniture, boxes, and equipment Assist with ...

Purchasing Assistant

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

... the entry-level and first time move-up markets. The Company also provides mortgage financing and ... We offer an excellent benefits package including: • Medical, Dental and Vision • 401(K) • ...

Purchasing Assistant

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

... the entry-level and first time move-up markets. The Company also provides mortgage financing and ... We offer an excellent benefits package including: • Medical, Dental and Vision • 401(K) • ...

Purchasing Assistant

Huntsville, AL

$18.75 - $24.25/hr

... the entry-level and first time move-up markets. The Company also provides mortgage financing and ... Medical, Dental and Vision 401(K) Employee Stock Purchase Plan Flex Spending Accounts Life ...

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 ...

New

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 ...

New

Cook Marriott

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$14 - $18.75/hr

Benefits - Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, and other supplemental options! * 401k with ... Supervise and train entry-level cooks and kitchen staff. * Ensure food quality and presentation ...

Cook Marriott

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$13.75 - $18.50/hr

Benefits - Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, and other supplemental options! * 401k with ... Supervise and train entry-level cooks and kitchen staff. * Ensure food quality and presentation ...

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Entry Level Dental Assistant information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$9

$16

$22

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

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level dental assistant in Decatur, AL is $16.65, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Dental Assistant, and why are they important?

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.

How to get started as a dental assistant?

To start as an entry-level dental assistant, complete a high school diploma or equivalent, then pursue a dental assisting program or certification, which can often be completed in less than a year. Gaining hands-on experience through internships or on-the-job training and obtaining certification, such as the DANB Certified Dental Assistant credential, can improve job prospects and prepare you for working with dental tools and patient care in a dental office.

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 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.

How much does a dental assistant start out at?

Entry-level dental assistants typically start with an hourly wage ranging from $15 to $20, depending on location and employer. Salaries can increase with certifications, experience, and additional skills such as chairside assisting or radiography.

Is it hard to get a dental assistant job?

Entry level dental assistant positions are generally accessible to those with a high school diploma and relevant certifications, such as CPR. Competition can vary by location and demand, but gaining experience through internships or certifications can improve chances of employment in this field.

What are entry level dental assistants?

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 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.

What is an entry level dental assistant?

An entry level dental assistant is a professional who provides support in dental offices by preparing patients, sterilizing equipment, and assisting the dentist during procedures. Typically, this role requires basic training or certification and offers on-the-job learning opportunities to develop skills in patient care and dental procedures.
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 Mover

Vervic Inc.

Huntsville, AL • On-site

$17/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, PTO

Posted 2 days ago


Job description

Benefits:

Dental insurance

Health insurance

Opportunity for advancement

Paid time off

Training & development

Entry-Level Mover (Commercial & Residential) Location: Huntsville, AL & surrounding North Alabama areas

About Us We are a locally owned and operated moving company proudly serving North Alabama with a strong reputation for professionalism, reliability, and top-tier customer service. Our team takes pride in making every move smooth and stress-free for our customers, whether they are relocating their home or business. We believe in teamwork, hard work, and creating a positive environment where employees can grow and succeed.

About the Role: We are currently hiring Entry-Level Movers to join our growing team! This is a great opportunity for individuals who enjoy hands-on work, staying active, and working as part of a team. No prior moving experience is required-we provide full training to set you up for success. As a mover, you will play a key role in delivering excellent service and ensuring each move is handled with care and efficiency.

What You'll Do

Safely load, unload, and transport furniture, boxes, and equipment Assist with packing and unpacking items as needed Work on both residential and commercial moving projects Follow team leader instructions to complete jobs efficiently Handle customer belongings with care and attention to detail Maintain a clean and organized work environment Provide friendly, professional customer service on every job What We're Looking For

Strong work ethic and willingness to learn Positive attitude and team-oriented mindset Ability to lift, carry, and move heavy items throughout the day Dependable and punctual with good communication skills Comfortable working in a fast-paced, physical environment Requirements

Valid driver's license with a clean driving record Ability to drive company vehicles when needed Must be able to pass background and motor vehicle checks Why Join Us?

Pay starting at $17/hour Paid training-no experience required Opportunity for growth into leadership roles Supportive, team-focused work environment Consistent work with a respected local company

If you're ready to start a hands-on career, learn new skills, and be part of a hardworking team, we'd love to have you apply!