Dental Assistant/Receptionist

Role overview

Join a welcoming dental team in Palmerston North where patient care, teamwork, and a supportive workplace culture come first. This fixed-term opportunity is suited to someone who enjoys variety, works well with people, and wants to contribute to a practice that aims to make every visit feel comfortable and positive.

What the role involves

This is a dual-function position with the main focus on chairside dental assisting, plus reception support when needed. You will help the practice run smoothly while ensuring patients feel looked after from arrival to departure.

• Support clinicians during a range of dental treatments
• Set up treatment rooms and uphold strong sterilisation and infection-control practices
• Track, organise, and replenish clinical stock and supplies
• Help patients feel calm, comfortable, and reassured throughout their visit
• Greet patients in a warm and professional manner
• Handle appointments, enquiries, and booking requests
• Process payments and carry out general administration
• Contribute to the smooth daily functioning of the practice

What you need

Experience as a dental assistant is preferred, but the employer is also open to people new to the field who bring a positive attitude, solid customer service skills, and a willingness to learn. Full training will be provided to the right person.

• Dental assisting experience is an advantage, though not essential
• Exposure to sterilisation tasks or a background in customer service
• Clear communication and a cooperative, team-oriented approach
• Good attention to detail and strong organisational ability
• Comfort using computers and learning new systems quickly
• Professional, patient-first attitude with strong interpersonal skills
• Valid New Zealand work rights
• Must live locally

Work schedule and contract details

This is a fixed-term role running from 6 July 2026 to 25 May 2027. Working hours are Monday to Wednesday from 8:30am to 5:30pm, and Thursday from 8:30am to 5:00pm.

Other information

The team values reliability, enthusiasm, and a willingness to contribute to a close-knit, supportive workplace. Applicants can expect a quick first step in the process: after applying, an automated email will be sent with a few simple questions to complete at their convenience, after which the team will review responses and move the process along promptly.