Dental Assistant

Are you a caring and organised Dental Assistant looking to make a meaningful impact in a unique primary healthcare setting? This is a great opportunity to support Dental clinicians and deliver high-quality care to Defence members in a professional, team-focused environment. 

What’s on offer 

• Work-life balance – predictable hours, finish on time
• Safe, respectful environment – professional, health focused patient cohort 
• Collaborative team – feel valued and supported in a team of Dentists and Hygienists  
• Meaningful work – support positive oral health outcomes for Defence members 
• Civilian role – be part of the mission without wearing the uniform 
• Practical perks – free parking and uniforms 
• Wellbeing support – mental health resources and lifestyle discounts 

About the Cairns Health Centre 
Cairns Health Centre is located at HMAS Cairns, on the northern shore of Trinity Inlet and close to the CBD of Cairns.  Members mainly conduct border controls and responsibility extending from Rockhampton to Thursday Island, providing maintenance, logistic and administrative support for Cairns fleet-based units.  The base is home to approximately 1000 Navy and civilian personnel providing primary medical, underwater medicine, dental, nursing, and mental health services. The standard operating hours of the centre are generally 0700-1630 Monday – Thursday depending on role requirements, and a half day (5.5 hours) Friday. 

What you’ll do 

• Working Monday to Friday on a fixed term contract till December 2026
• Supporting dental procedures through chair-side assisting 
• Preparing and maintaining clinical equipment and treatment areas 
• Promoting oral health and supporting patient care 
• Maintaining infection control and hygiene standards 
• Managing patient records and supporting administrative tasks 

What you bring 

• Certificate III in Dental Assisting or equivalent qualification 
• 2 years chair-side experience in a dental clinical setting 
• Current First Aid (HLTAID011) and CPR (HLTAID009) certification 
• Strong understanding of infection control and clinical standards 
• Great communication skills with a caring, team-focused approach 

Who we are 

Serco supports governments by delivering essential services across defence, health, justice, maritime and community services. 

Through our partnership with Bupa, we provide integrated on-base healthcare to Australian Defence Force personnel across 45+ locations.