Surgical Technologist

TITLE: Oral Surgery - Surgical Technologist (Oral Surgery Assistant) – Full-Time

REPORTS TO: Oral Surgeon and Management Team

SUMMARY: This position is responsible for providing skilled surgical assistance during oral and maxillofacial procedures. The Surgical Technologist ensures proper preparation of the surgical environment, maintains sterile technique, anticipates surgeon needs, manages instrumentation, and supports safe and efficient patient care before, during, and after procedures. This role works collaboratively with the oral surgeon and clinical team to optimize surgical outcomes and patient experience.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

Surgical Preparation & Sterile Technique

• Prepare and set up surgical suites, ensuring all instruments, equipment, and supplies are sterile, functional, and available for each procedure.
• Establish and maintain sterile fields in accordance with OSHA, CDC, and infection control standards.
• Perform surgical scrubbing, gowning, and gloving techniques.
• Ensure proper sterilization, decontamination, and storage of instruments and surgical equipment.
• Conduct routine autoclave monitoring, including weekly spore testing and documentation.

Intraoperative Surgical Assistance

• Provide chairside surgical assistance using four-handed technique.
• Anticipate surgeon needs by passing instruments, retracting tissue, suctioning, and maintaining a clear surgical field.
• Assist with surgical procedures including extractions, implant placement, bone grafting, biopsies, and other oral surgery procedures.
• Prepare and handle surgical instruments, sutures, dental materials, and implants.
• Maintain accurate counts of instruments, sharps, and surgical materials.

Anesthesia & Patient Monitoring Support

• Assist with patient preparation for anesthesia procedures.
• Place and monitor basic patient equipment (e.g., blood pressure cuff, pulse oximeter, cardiac leads, capnography) under provider direction and within scope.
• Support airway management and patient positioning during procedures.
• Monitor patient status during procedures and recovery, promptly reporting changes to the provider.

Clinical Support & Patient Care

• Obtain and document patient medical history, vital signs, and relevant clinical information.
• Provide pre-operative and post-operative instructions to patients.
• Assist with patient transport, positioning, and recovery processes.
• Ensure all consent forms, documentation, and records are complete and accurate.

Imaging & Documentation

• Capture high-quality diagnostic radiographs (including panoramic and CBCT imaging).
• Maintain accurate clinical records, including surgical notes, implant logs, and biopsy tracking.
• Ensure proper handling, labeling, and documentation of biopsy specimens.

Inventory, Equipment & Compliance

• Maintain inventory of surgical supplies, implants, and medications; notify management of supply needs.
• Ensure all equipment is maintained, serviced, and documented (e.g., AED, anesthesia machines, imaging systems).
• Support compliance with AAOMS, ADA, CDC, OSHA, DEA, and Virginia Board of Dentistry regulations.
• Maintain SDS documentation and ensure proper handling of hazardous materials.

Team Support & Clinic Operations

• Coordinate operatory turnover efficiently between procedures.
• Assist with scheduling workflow to ensure efficient surgical flow.
• Serve as a clinical resource and support training of new team members.
• Participate in team meetings, safety drills, and continuing education.
• Assist with general clinic duties including stocking rooms, maintaining cleanliness, and supporting front office operations as needed.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND ABILITIES:

• Strong knowledge of sterile technique and surgical instrumentation.
• Understanding of oral surgery procedures and workflow.
• Knowledge of OSHA, HIPAA, and CDC compliance standards.
• Ability to anticipate surgical needs and respond quickly in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to remain calm and effective during surgical and emergency situations.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Proficiency with electronic medical records systems.

PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to stand for extended periods (75%+ of the workday).
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• Exposure to biohazards, bloodborne pathogens, and OSHA-regulated chemicals.
• Exposure to nitrous oxide and surgical environment conditions.

LICENSING / CERTIFICATIONS:

• Surgical Technologist Certification (CST) preferred or equivalent oral surgery assisting experience
• CPR/BLS Certification (required)
• X-ray Certification (required per Virginia regulations)

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Completion of an accredited Surgical Technology program OR
• 1–3 years of experience in oral surgery or surgical assisting role
• Strong knowledge of surgical instrumentation and sterile processing

Pay: $24.00 - $29.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• OR: 1 year (Required)

Work Location: In person