"Dental Assistant – Sterilising Assistant"

The role | Te mahi

The Faculty of Dentistry invites applications for a Dental Assistant – Sterilising Assistant position at our Auckland Dental Facility.

This purpose-built clinical teaching facility, developed in partnership with Counties Manukau Health, is located in South Auckland and supports a wide range of clinical and teaching activities.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Assist clinicians and dental students during patient treatment.
• Prepare treatment rooms and clinical areas for patient care.
• Ensure dental instruments and equipment are cleaned, sterilised and maintained according to required infection control standards.
• Support the smooth and efficient operation of clinics by preparing and organising instruments, materials and equipment.
• Maintain high standards of infection prevention and sterilisation processes in accordance with Faculty protocols and regulatory requirements.

Your skills and experience | Kā pūkeka me kā wheako

We are looking for a motivated and organised individual to contribute to the delivery of high-quality patient care and clinical teaching support within a collaborative and professional university environment.

Key skills will also include:

• A recognised Dental Assistant qualification or equivalent clinical experience.
• Experience working in a dental clinic or sterilisation environment.
• Knowledge of infection prevention and sterilisation protocols, including instrument processing and autoclave use.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication skills and a professional, patient-focused approach.
• Competency using patient management systems and general computer applications.

About our team | Mō te tīma

The University of Otago is one of New Zealand’s largest and most research-intensive universities. Founded in 1869, the Faculty of Dentistry is based at the University’s main campus in Dunedin and is the only dental school in New Zealand.

The Auckland Dental Facility supports clinical teaching and patient care in a modern purpose-built environment, providing students with practical experience while delivering high-quality dental services to the community.

Further details | Pūroko

This is a full time (37.5 hours) permanent position, based in Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland.

The appointment range for this role is $63,508 to $68,185. Top of range $73,640.

Days and hours of work will be discussed with the successful candidate.

You must have the right to live and work in New Zealand to apply for this role.

The University of Otago is a workplace that values and utilises diverse and inclusive thinking, people and behaviours. This means that we honour Te Tiriti o Waitangi and value the contributions of staff with diverse backgrounds, experiences, skills and perspectives.

For further information regarding the role, please contact Ros Syms via the contact details below.

Application | Tono

To submit your application (including CV and cover letter), please click the apply button. Applications will close on Sunday, 22 March 2026.

Applications may be reviewed as they are received. The university reserves the right to close this vacancy at any time.

Additional Information

Contact: Ros Syms

Position details: Job Description

Further Information: Department Website