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Positions involving dental support work including patient care, instrument preparation, and clinic operations.
2025 Base Pay (before locality adjustment)
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7 | Step 8 | Step 9 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
| GS-9 | $52,205 | $53,945 | $55,685 | $57,425 | $59,165 | $60,905 | $62,645 | $64,385 | $66,125 | $67,865 |
| GS-11 | $63,163 | $65,268 | $67,373 | $69,478 | $71,583 | $73,688 | $75,793 | $77,898 | $80,003 | $82,108 |
| GS-12 | $75,706 | $78,229 | $80,752 | $83,275 | $85,798 | $88,321 | $90,844 | $93,367 | $95,890 | $98,422 |
| GS-13 | $90,025 | $93,026 | $96,027 | $99,028 | $102,029 | $105,030 | $108,031 | $111,032 | $114,033 | $117,034 |
| GS-14 | $106,382 | $109,928 | $113,474 | $117,020 | $120,566 | $124,112 | $127,658 | $131,204 | $134,750 | $138,296 |
| GS-15 | $125,133 | $129,304 | $133,475 | $137,646 | $141,817 | $145,988 | $150,159 | $154,330 | $158,501 | $162,672 |
Note: These are 2025 base pay rates. Most federal employees receive locality pay adjustments of 15-40%+ depending on location.
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0681
Individual Occupational Requirements for GS-0681:
Radiologic Procedures Credentialing: All personnel administering radiologic procedures must meet 42 CFR Part 75 standards, requiring completion of an accredited educational program and certification as radiographers. Federal employees hired before January 13, 1986 may demonstrate competence through current performance or certification from a licensed practitioner.
Specialized Experience (GS-4 and above): Applicants must possess experience in:
Education and Training Requirements:
Special Requirements for GS-5+ Expanded Function Positions: Applicants must complete 1 year of acceptable course work, preceptorship, or other formal training and/or work assignments in intra-oral procedures, including:
Experience and Education Requirements by Grade Level (Group Standard):
| Grade | General Experience | Specialized Experience | Education |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-3 | 6 months | None | 1-year ADA program or practical nurse training |
| GS-4 | 6 months | 6 months | 2-year dental program |
| GS-5 | None | 1 year at GS-4 level | 4-year bachelor's degree |
| GS-6+ | None | 1 year at next lower grade | Graduate education if directly related |
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal dental assistant position
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
Match your years of experience and education to the appropriate GS grade. Generally: GS-5 (entry), GS-7/9 (junior), GS-11/12 (journey), GS-13+ (senior).
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
Military jobs that transition to GS-0681
Dental Assistant series. VA dental clinics and military dental facilities.
Direct translation to dental assistant roles. Highlight dental procedures, patient care, and clinic management.
Dental assistant.
💡 Tip: Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
Skill in assisting dentists during examinations and procedures.
Ability to prepare and sterilize dental instruments and equipment.
Skill in taking and processing dental X-rays.
Ability to prepare patients for dental procedures.
Knowledge of dental infection control and sterilization procedures.
Skill in handling dental materials and supplies.
Ability to communicate with patients and explain procedures.
Skill in maintaining dental records and appointment schedules.
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
GS-0681 Dental Assistants support dentists during examinations and procedures. They prepare patients, sterilize instruments, take dental X-rays, maintain records, schedule appointments, order supplies, and educate patients. They work at VA dental clinics, IHS facilities, military dental clinics, and federal prisons.
GS-0681 follows a one-grade interval typically ranging from GS-4 ($30,795) to GS-7 ($42,679-$55,486). Most positions are GS-5 to GS-6 ($34,454-$49,927). Lead dental assistants reach higher grades. Add locality pay of 15-40% plus excellent federal benefits.
At entry, you need dental assistant training or equivalent experience. DANB certification (Certified Dental Assistant) strengthens applications significantly. Radiography certification required for X-ray duties. Higher grades require specialized dental assisting experience. Knowledge of sterilization and infection control is essential.
Yes. Military dental assistant or dental technician training (68E Dental Specialist) directly qualifies. Your four-handed dentistry skills, sterilization procedures, and radiography experience transfer completely. Veterans with dental MOSs are highly valued at VA and military dental clinics.
Entry at GS-4/5 with progression to GS-6/7. Lead dental assistant positions offer advancement. Many pursue dental hygiene education to transition to GS-0682 at higher grades. Expanded functions certification opens additional opportunities. VA offers tuition assistance for career advancement.
Search USAJOBS for 'Dental Assistant.' VA dental clinics and IHS are the largest employers. Emphasize your chairside experience, radiography certification, and sterilization training. Veterans with dental MOSs have directly applicable qualifications—your military dental training is highly valued.
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.