Dental Assistant Te Awamutu at Health New Zealand - Te Whatu Ora Waikato, Waikato

Mō tēnei tūranga mahi | About this role

• Dental Assistant Te Awamutu & Surrounding areas
• Part time permanent position 32 hours per week

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is firmly grounded in the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and is committed to building a health system that serves all New Zealanders.

About the Role

Are you passionate about community health and supporting our next generation?

We are looking for a dedicated Dental Assistant to join our team. This role is about more than just clinical support; its about making dental visits a positive, safe, and empowering experience for tamariki and their whānau.

What you will do

• Clinical Support: Assist therapists and dentists with treatments, ensuring a smooth and efficient environment for every patient.
• Tamariki Focus: Use your natural warmth to calm young patients and guide them through their appointments.
• Safety & Care: Manage sterilization, infection control, and prep the clinic to the highest standards.
• Whānau Connection: Communicate clearly with families, ensuring they feel informed and respected from the moment they walk in.

Click here to view the position description.

About you

We are looking for a reliable team player who understands the importance of community, family, and cultural values. You might be an experienced dental assistant, or perhaps you have a background in childcare or community support (like experience at a kōhanga reo) and are ready to transition into oral health.

To thrive in this role, you will bring:

• Whānau & Tamariki Focus: A natural ease and patience when working with children, and a genuine connection to Te Ao Māori or Pacific Island cultures.
• Strong Communication: Good, clear communication skills and the ability to connect easily with families from all walks of life.
• Reliable & Organized: You are conscientious, dependable, and have the ability to prioritize tasks effectively in a busy clinic environment.
• Tech Savvy: Sound computer skills to help manage patient records and clinical scheduling.
• On the Move: A full, current drivers licence, or a genuine commitment to working towards getting one.

About the Team/Service

Oral Health Waikato is a dedicated team of professionals committed to providing high-quality, free dental care to tamariki and rangatahi across our region. As a member of our team, you will be serving theTe Awamutu, Otorohanga, Te Kuiti, Piopio communities and surrounding rural areas. You may also be required to work in other clinics, such as Waikato hospital, if needed. Travel out to rural areas is required and expected.

Working for Health New Zealand

Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora is dedicated to ensuring excellent healthcare for the people of New Zealand. We embrace a workforce that is diverse and inclusive so that we are better positioned to understand and service our community. We welcome applications from our diverse Māori, Pacific, disabled, and rainbow communities.

How to Apply

To apply please click Apply online or apply via our Waikato Careers website by clicking here.

All applications must be submitted through our online careers portal before 11:59 pm on 29 January 2027. If you have any questions about the role, please contact Ekeraam Jones at ekeraam.jones@TeWhatuOra.govt.nz.

We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process, before the closing date of this advert.