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Student Dental Assistant Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary The Surgical Assistant is responsible for providing surgical and dental assisting duties to the dental faculty practice, student, and graduate clinics within the Oral and ...

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Student Dental Assistant information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$11

$19

$27

How much do student dental assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for student dental assistant in Raleigh, NC is $19.70, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.97 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a student dental assistant?

Student dental assistants are individuals who are currently enrolled in a dental assisting program and work in dental offices or clinics as part of their training. They support dentists and dental hygienists by preparing patients, sterilizing instruments, and assisting during dental procedures. This hands-on experience helps students gain practical skills and fulfill requirements needed to become certified dental assistants after graduation.

What are the typical responsibilities of a student dental assistant?

As a Student Dental Assistant, you will be involved in a variety of hands-on tasks during your clinical rotations, such as preparing treatment rooms, sterilizing instruments, assisting dentists during procedures, taking dental impressions, and providing patient education on oral hygiene. You may also handle administrative duties like scheduling appointments and maintaining patient records. These experiences are designed to build your practical skills, help you adapt to the pace of a dental office, and prepare you for working as a fully qualified dental assistant after graduation.

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

To thrive as a Student Dental Assistant, you need a basic understanding of dental terminology, infection control, and chairside assisting techniques, often obtained through a dental assisting program or on-the-job training. Familiarity with dental instruments, digital radiography, and patient management software is typically required. Strong attention to detail, communication skills, and a willingness to learn help set individuals apart in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for supporting dental procedures efficiently, ensuring patient comfort, and maintaining a safe clinical environment.

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

AspectStudent Dental AssistantDental Assistant
CredentialsTypically in training or enrolled in dental assisting programsCertified or licensed, with completed training
Work EnvironmentEducational settings, dental schools, or internshipsDental offices, clinics, or hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions or training programsPrivate practices, dental clinics, healthcare facilities
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles or training statusCompared for professional, paid roles in dentistry

In summary, a Student Dental Assistant is typically in training or education, gaining hands-on experience under supervision, while a Dental Assistant is a certified professional working independently in dental practices. The main difference lies in certification status and work experience.

Can a college student work as a student dental assistant?

Yes, college students can work as student dental assistants if they meet the required age, educational prerequisites, and obtain necessary certifications such as CPR or dental assisting courses. These roles often involve supporting dental staff with patient care, sterilization, and office tasks, typically during flexible hours that accommodate student schedules.

Can you be a student dental assistant without any experience?

Student dental assistants typically do not need prior experience, as training is often provided on the job or through educational programs. Basic skills such as good communication, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are important, and some programs may require a background check or health certifications. Experience can be gained through internships or entry-level positions in dental offices.

What are popular job titles related to Student Dental Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC?

For Student Dental Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Student Dental Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Student Dental Assistant jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Student Dental Assistant jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Student Dental Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Student Dental Assistant job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Part Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,967 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

$45K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago


University Of North Carolina At Chapel Hill rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 48 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

314th of 628 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Posting Information
Posting Information
Department
ASOD Pediatric Dentistry-435100
Career Area
Health Professional (Physician/Nurse/Other)
Is this an internal only recruitment?
No
Posting Open Date
06/16/2026
Application Deadline
09/22/2026
Position Type
Permanent Staff (SHRA)
Position Title
Dental Assistant - Advanced
Salary Grade Equivalent
MH05 / GN07
Working Title
Dental Assistant
Position Number
00057683, 20025345, 00035483
Vacancy ID
P021112
Full-time/Part-time Permanent/Time-Limited
Full-Time Permanent
If time-limited, estimated duration of appointment
Hours per week
40
Work Schedule
Monday - Friday; 8am - 5pm
Work Location
Chapel Hill, NC
Position Location
North Carolina, US
Hiring Range
$45,258 - $50,286
Pay Band Information
To learn more about the pay band for this branch and role, please see the Career Banding rates spreadsheet.
Notice to Applicants
Position Summary Information
Be a Tar Heel!
A global higher education leader in innovative teaching, research and public service, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill consistently ranks as one of the nation's top public universities. Known for its beautiful campus, world-class medical care, commitment to the arts and top athletic programs, Carolina is an ideal place to teach, work and learn.
One of the best college towns and best places to live in the United States, Chapel Hill has diverse social, cultural, recreation and professional opportunities that span the campus and community.
University employees can choose from a wide range of professional training opportunities for career growth, skill development and lifelong learning and enjoy exclusive perks for numerous retail, restaurant and performing arts discounts, savings on local child care centers and special rates on select campus events. UNC-Chapel Hill offers full-time employees a comprehensive benefits package, paid leave, and a variety of health, life and retirement plans and additional programs that support a healthy work/life balance.
Primary Purpose of Organizational Unit
The UNC Adams School of Dentistry Division of Pediatric and Public Health provides oral health care for individuals from infancy through adolescence, and promotes the prevention of oral disease. The Pediatric Dentistry discipline is committed to the treatment of children, adolescents and special needs patients while balancing teaching, scholarship, patient care, research and professional service activities.
Position Summary
A SIGN-ON BONUS OF $2,000 IS AVAILABLE FOR THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT OF THIS POSITION PAID IN TWO INSTALLMENTS WITHIN 12 MONTHS OF HIRE.
$1,000 WITHIN 30 DAYS OF HIRE DATE AND $1,000 12 MONTHS AFTER HIRE DATE.

The Dental Assistant is expected to perform all required duties to assist in the provision of dental care to patients of Pediatric and Public Health. These duties include assisting pediatric dental residents, faculty, and DDS students in providing oral health care to patients; preparing the necessary equipment and supplies for the dental care in the Adams School of Dentistry (graduate clinic and Dental Faculty Practice) and UNC Hospitals (Dental Clinic and operating room). Additionally, the Dental Assistant will be responsible for cleaning and stocking assigned operatory and patient care areas. This position will greet and prepare patients for the planned dental procedure and escort patients to various areas. This dental assistant will prepare and assign individual clinical schedule daily for the Graduate and DDS clinics, and Dental Faculty Practice within the Adams School of Dentistry.
Minimum Education and Experience Requirements
High school diploma or equivalency and completion of an accredited dental assisting program; or equivalent combination of training and experience.
Management Preferences
Prior experience in Pediatric Dentistry/Family Dentistry/Orthodontics. Two years experience as a dental assistant in North Carolina and fluency in Spanish a plus. DA II trained or equivalent.
Required Licenses/Certifications
Special Physical/Mental Requirements
Must be able to stand or sit for long periods of time.
Campus Security Authority Responsibilities
Not Applicable.
Position/Schedule Requirements
Exposure to Bloodborne Pathogens, Exposure to Hazardous Materials, Patient care involved
Special Instructions
**ELIGIBILITY FOR SIGN-ON BONUS
The selected candidate for this position may be eligible for a sign-on bonus. Qualified applicants must apply and be selected from the candidate pool of this posting and meet the State policy following requirements:
To be eligible for a Sign-on bonus, an individual must not have worked in a probationary, permanent, or time-limited appointment in the last 12 months as an employee in North Carolina state government, including without limitation the judicial system, state executive branch agencies, and the university system in a position subject to the State Human Resources Act.
A newly hired permanent full time or permanent part-time (more than 20 hours a week) employee are eligible for a sign-on bonus (this will be prorated for employees working more than 20 hours and less than 40 hours per week).
This SHRA Sign-on Bonus is contingent upon budget and final eligibility determination as of the effective date of hire. All recipients must sign the Pay Back Agreement form. Additional information regarding the SHRA Sign-on Policy can be found https://oshr.nc.gov/policies/sign-and-retention-bonus-policy
Quick Link
https://unc.peopleadmin.com/postings/320890
Contact Information
Office of Human Resources Contact Information
If you experience any problems accessing the system or have questions about the application process, please contact the Office of Human Resources at (919) 843-2300 or send an email to employment@unc.edu
Please note: The Office of Human Resources will not be able to provide specific updates regarding position or application status.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
The University is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all to apply without regard to age, color, gender, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. We encourage all qualified applicants to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

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About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill), located in Chapel Hill, NC, US, is renowned for being one of the leading research institutes in the world. Operating within the education industry, this public research university offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various disciplines. UNC-Chapel Hill was chartered in 1789 and has maintained its legacy of academic excellence and innovative research for more than two centuries. The institution operates under the core values of excellence, innovation, engagement, accessibility, diversity, and inclusivity. Their mission is to serve the people of North Carolina and the United States by teaching a diverse community of students to become the next generation of leaders.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Chapel Hill, NC, US

Year founded

1789