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Trainee Orthodontic Lab Technician Jobs (NOW HIRING)

We are seeking to fill a number of key positions within our organization including this Dental Lab Technician Trainee opportunity at NDX Davis Dental Laboratory in Wyoming, MI. The regular hours for ...

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Trainee Orthodontic Lab Technician information

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$15

$19

$23

How much do trainee orthodontic lab technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for trainee orthodontic lab technician in the United States is $19.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a trainee orthodontic lab technician?

Trainee orthodontic lab technicians are entry-level professionals who assist in creating dental appliances, such as braces and retainers, under the supervision of experienced technicians. They learn to use specialized tools and materials to fabricate, adjust, and repair orthodontic devices based on dentists' and orthodontists' specifications. Trainees gain hands-on experience while developing their technical skills, attention to detail, and understanding of dental anatomy. This role often serves as a stepping stone to becoming a fully qualified orthodontic laboratory technician.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a trainee orthodontic lab technician?

To thrive as a Trainee Orthodontic Lab Technician, you need a good understanding of dental anatomy, manual dexterity, and attention to detail, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with dental lab equipment, impression materials, and basic CAD/CAM systems is valuable, and some roles may require formal training or certification. Strong communication, time management, and willingness to learn are key soft skills for collaborating with dental professionals and adapting to evolving technology. These skills ensure accurate fabrication of orthodontic appliances, efficient workflow, and quality patient outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by trainee orthodontic lab technicians during their first year?

Trainee orthodontic lab technicians often find the initial learning curve challenging as they master detailed manual tasks like model casting, wire bending, and appliance fabrication. Adapting to strict quality standards and deadlines can also be stressful, especially when balancing multiple cases at once. Collaboration with orthodontists and senior technicians is key, as clear communication ensures appliances meet patient-specific requirements. Over time, hands-on practice and mentorship help build confidence and proficiency, making these challenges manageable.

What is the difference between Trainee Orthodontic Lab Technician vs Dental Laboratory Technician?

AspectTrainee Orthodontic Lab TechnicianDental Laboratory Technician
CertificationsTypically in training, may pursue certifications like CDTOften certified as CDT or similar
Work EnvironmentSpecialized orthodontic labs, supervised trainingGeneral dental labs, various specialties
Job FocusOrthodontic appliances, braces, alignersDiverse dental prosthetics, crowns, bridges
Experience LevelEntry-level, in trainingVaries from entry to experienced

The Trainee Orthodontic Lab Technician is an entry-level role focused on learning orthodontic appliance fabrication, often in a training environment. In contrast, a Dental Laboratory Technician may work on a broader range of dental prosthetics with more experience. Both roles require similar certifications and work in dental labs, but their focus and complexity differ.

What cities are hiring for Trainee Orthodontic Lab Technician jobs?

Cities with the most Trainee Orthodontic Lab Technician job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Orthodontic Lab Technician jobs?

The most popular types of Orthodontic Lab Technician jobs are:

What states have the most Trainee Orthodontic Lab Technician jobs?

States with the most job openings for Trainee Orthodontic Lab Technician jobs include:

Infographic showing various Trainee Orthodontic Lab Technician job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,902 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Dental Lab Technician Trainee

National Dentex

Wyoming, MI

$15.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago


National Dentex rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

81st of 120 rated laboratories


Job description

Join National Dentex - a leading healthcare organization specializing in the dental industry! We offer a full spectrum of specialized products, services, and technologies to address any dental restoration need. Currently, we have 50 labs throughout the country. We are seeking to fill a number of key positions within our organization including this Dental Lab Technician Trainee opportunity at NDX Davis Dental Laboratory in Wyoming, MI. 

The regular hours for this position are from 7:30 AM to 3:30 PM, Monday through Friday, and subject to change from time to time. 

This is a full-time position featuring employee benefits including: health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance; paid holiday, vacation, and sick time; 401K with company contribution; and tuition reimbursement!  

Primary Responsibilities and Essential Functions of the Position:

  • Read prescriptions and specifications received from dentist
  • Wax dentures for try-in and/or finish
  • All other duties as assigned

Skills and Abilities Preferred:

  • Knowledge tooth anatomy
  • Ability to articulate according to Rx
  • Knowledge of materials (i.e. stones, acrylic)
  • Ability to use manual & power tools
  • Identify through Impressions margins

Minimum Education and Experience Required:

  • No experience required - on the job / paid training will be provided
  • Preferred: High School diploma or equivalent

Hazardous Materials or Equipment Used:

  • Wax pot/Bunsen burner, Blazer torch
  • Wax, alcohol torch

 Physical Requirements:

  • Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, and/or reach
  • Exhibit fine motor skills and/or perform repetitive motions
  • Read and interpret prescriptions and other required documentation
  • Ability to effectively communicate technical information
  • Vision capabilities: depth perception, attention to detail, and/or color

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