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Rda Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ortho Assistant-RDA

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

Overview RDA Ortho New & Experienced Licensee Welcome Want excellent training? Are you a motivated self-starter looking for professional and personal fulfillment in your dental career? Come and join ...

Ortho Assistant-RDA

Pittsburg, CA · On-site

$25 - $34/hr

Overview RDA Ortho New & Experienced Licensee Welcome Want excellent training? Are you a motivated self-starter looking for professional and personal fulfillment in your dental career? Come and join ...

RDA/DA

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$21.25 - $27.75/hr

Job Opportunity Permanent Full time RDA/DA - Registered Dental Assistant/Dental assistant in an SF dental general dental practice (close to BART). Hours are Monday-Friday 8-5. They offer benefits of ...

Overview RDA Ortho New & Experienced Licensee Welcome Want excellent training? Are you a motivated self-starter looking for professional and personal fulfillment in your dental career? Come and join ...

RDA Ortho New & Experienced Licensee Welcome Want excellent training? Are you a motivated self-starter looking for professional and personal fulfillment in your dental career? Come and join a fun a ...

Lead RDA

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $27.50/hr

Lead RDA for a Pediatric & Orthodontic Dental Practice-Full Time We are a high-volume pediatric and orthodontic practice with 3 doctors and a large clinical team seeking an experienced, hands-on Lead ...

RDA/DA

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$21.25 - $27.75/hr

Job Opportunity Permanent Full time RDA/DA - Registered Dental Assistant/Dental assistant in an SF dental general dental practice (close to BART). Hours are Monday-Friday 8-5. They offer benefits of ...

We are currently seeking a passionate and caring Dental Assistant (DA) or Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) to join our dynamic and friendly team. The ideal candidate will have a genuine love for ...

Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) Auburn & Grass Valley, CA $23.00 - $35.55 per hour (DOE) On Call | Weekly Pay | Great Benefits Join a compassionate dental team dedicated to delivering exceptional ...

We are currently seeking a passionate and caring Dental Assistant (DA) or Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) to join our dynamic and friendly team. The ideal candidate will have a genuine love for ...

Experienced RDA

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$32 - $45/hr

Are you a friendly, cheerful, life-loving RDA who enjoys helping patients feel comfortable and cared for? Our welcoming family dental office in El Cajon is looking for a new team member to join our ...

RDA

Richmond, CA

$25 - $33/hr

Title RDA About Us We are a family-owned private dental practice dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care. Our team values teamwork, patient comfort, and building long-term ...

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Rda information

See California salary details

$11

$21

$30

How much do rda jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for rda in California is $21.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an RDA?

Registered Dental Assistants (RDAs) are dental professionals who support dentists in providing patient care. Their responsibilities typically include preparing patients for treatment, sterilizing instruments, taking dental x-rays, assisting during dental procedures, and managing patient records. RDAs must complete accredited dental assisting programs and pass a state or national certification exam. Their specific duties and certification requirements can vary by state, but they play a crucial role in ensuring efficient dental office operations and patient comfort.

What does an RDA do?

As a registered dental assistant (RDA), you perform a wide range of tasks to help dentists provide dental care for patients. In this role, your duties may include helping prepare patients for a procedure, sterilizing instruments, providing post-operative care instructions, scheduling appointments, maintaining patient records, and ensuring each dental room is well-stocked. Some RDAs focus on specialized care, such as providing dental treatment to children or seniors. Most registered dental assistants also perform cleanings and help with common procedures before the dentist comes in to check for serious problems.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an RDA, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Registered Dental Assistant (RDA), you need a solid understanding of dental procedures, infection control, and dental terminology, typically achieved through completion of an accredited dental assisting program and state licensure. Familiarity with dental radiography, practice management software, and sterilization equipment is commonly required. Excellent interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask help RDAs build rapport with patients and support dental teams effectively. These competencies are essential for ensuring high-quality patient care, efficient clinic operations, and adherence to safety standards.

What are some common challenges RDAs face in a busy dental practice, and how can they overcome them?

Registered Dental Assistants often encounter fast-paced work environments where they must efficiently manage multiple tasks, such as preparing treatment rooms, assisting dentists during procedures, and handling patient records. Time management and strong communication skills are essential to stay organized and provide quality patient care. RDAs can overcome these challenges by proactively coordinating with team members, staying current with best practices, and utilizing checklists or digital tools to streamline tasks and reduce errors.

What is the difference between Rda vs Dental Assistant?

AspectRdaDental Assistant
CertificationsRegistered Dental Assistant (Rda) certification requiredTypically no certification required, but some states prefer certification
Work EnvironmentOperates independently in clinical proceduresAssists dentists and supports patient care
Job ResponsibilitiesPerforms advanced clinical procedures, takes X-raysPrepares treatment rooms, patient care, sterilization
Employer & Industry UsageDental practices, clinics, hospitalsDental offices, clinics, hospitals

While both Rdas and Dental Assistants work in dental settings, Rdas have specialized clinical responsibilities and require certification, allowing for more independent procedures. Dental Assistants support the dental team with patient care and office tasks, often with less formal certification. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Is RDA a good job?

Registered Dental Assistants (RDAs) perform clinical and administrative tasks in dental offices, often requiring certification and good communication skills. The job offers steady employment, opportunities for specialization, and typically involves working during regular office hours. Job satisfaction depends on individual preferences for healthcare work and patient interaction.

What can I do with a registered dental assistant certification?

A registered dental assistant (RDA) certification allows individuals to perform clinical tasks such as preparing patients, sterilizing instruments, taking X-rays, and assisting dentists during procedures. RDAs work in dental offices, providing support with patient care and chairside assistance, often requiring knowledge of dental software and infection control protocols.

What is the career path for a registered dental assistant?

A registered dental assistant (RDA) can advance their career by gaining additional certifications, such as in expanded functions or office management, and pursuing further education to become a dental hygienist or dental office manager. Career progression often involves increased responsibilities, specialization, or leadership roles within dental practices.

Where do registered dental assistants make the most money?

Registered dental assistants tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for dental services, such as urban areas or states with strong healthcare industries. Salary can also vary based on experience, certifications, and the type of dental practice, with specialized skills potentially leading to higher pay.

What are the most commonly searched types of Rda jobs in California?

The most popular types of Rda jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Rda jobs?

Cities in California with the most Rda job openings:

Infographic showing various Rda job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,204 per year, or $21.3 per hour.

$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


West Coast Dental rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 14 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Pediatric Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) – West Coast DentalPosition Overview

At West Coast Dental, a Pediatric Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) supports dentists in delivering high-quality care to children in a fast-paced, family-friendly environment. The role blends advanced clinical duties (as a licensed RDA) with patient care focused on children and parents.


Key ResponsibilitiesClinical Duties (RDA-Level)
  • Assist the dentist during pediatric procedures using 4-handed dentistry
  • Perform expanded functions allowed under RDA license (varies by state, e.g., coronal polishing, sealants, etc.)
  • Take and process dental X-rays
  • Prepare and sterilize instruments and operatories
  • Maintain infection control standards (OSHA, HIPAA compliance)
  • Ensure treatment rooms are fully stocked and ready

???? These core duties align with West Coast Dental assistant roles, including assisting procedures, sterilization, X-rays, and records management


Patient Care (Pediatric Focus)
  • Comfort and manage child patients before, during, and after treatment
  • Educate children and parents on oral hygiene and preventive care
  • Create a friendly, calm, and positive experience for young patients
  • Communicate treatment steps in an age-appropriate way

???? Pediatric roles emphasize working with children and providing a welcoming environment


Administrative & Support Tasks
  • Maintain accurate patient charts and documentation
  • Assist with patient flow and chair turnover
  • Support front office or coordination tasks when needed
  • Communicate with team members regarding patient care

Qualifications
  • Active Registered Dental Assistant (RDA) license (required)
  • X-ray certification (required in California)
  • Pediatric dental experience (preferred)
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced clinical setting
  • Comfortable working with children and families

???? West Coast Dental listings consistently emphasize certification, teamwork, and pediatric experience


Work Environment
  • Pediatric-focused dental office
  • High patient volume, team-based workflow
  • Emphasis on positive, child-friendly care experience

Benefits
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Career advancement opportunities

Summary

A Pediatric RDA at West Coast Dental does more than basic assisting—you’re expected to:

  • Use licensed clinical skills
  • Help manage children’s behavior and comfort
  • Keep operations running efficiently in a busy pediatric setting

What West Coast Dental employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

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