Hospital Dental Assistant (0.6 FTE) Nelson
Hospital Dental Assistant, Nelson Hospital, Permanent Part-time
- This is an exciting opportunity to join our friendly team at Nelson Hospital Dental Department. It’s a diverse role covering theatre and clinic, providing a wide range of treatment on all ages.
- Our Hospital Dentists work 1:1 with our Dental Assistants.
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
As a Hospital Dental Assistant, you will provide chairside assistance for dentists and dental specialists providing treatment for both in-patient and out-patients, eligible for hospital level oral health services The role includes both clinical services in dental clinics and Theatres and supporting administrative duties.
This is a permanent, part-time role working 48 hours per fortnight (0.6 FTE), across three days per week 8.00AM to 5.00PM. There is no on-call.
Please view the position description for further information.
About the Team/Service/ Location
We’re a vibrant team of 5 Dental Assistants supporting 6 Dentists and Consultant Dental Specialists providing a diverse range of dental treatment. We work in well-equipped facilities and are focused on providing a high standard of general oral health care to our patients/clients.
This role is mainly based at Nelson Hospital, however form time-to-time you may be required to work in the wider Nelson/Tasman/Marlborough region.
For more information on living and working in Nelson click here
About you
As a Hospital Dental Assistant, you will entail:
- Previous dental experience essential;
- A good standard of oral and written communication (minimum of Year 11 NCEA English and Maths – or equivalent) and, if not previously attained, you will be prepared to undertake the NZQA Level 3: New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Dental Assistance) which is to be completed within 2 years of commencement in the role;
- Have a valid full drivers license;
- Enjoy working in a supportive team, demonstrating enthusiasm and the ability to follow instructions and learn new skills.
The successful candidate must be eligible to work in New Zealand or hold a valid NZ visa at the time of applying.
Working at 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 now.” All applications must be submitted through our online careers’ portal by 28 June 2026. If you have any questions about the role, please contact
Sonja Rae (Recruitment) at sonja.rae@tewhatuora.govt.nz OR
Gillian Champion (Service Manager Surgical Services) at gillian.champion@nmdhb.govt.nz .
Job ref: R1N26-153
We will review applications as received and may proceed with the recruitment process, before the closing date of this advert.
Whilst Health New Zealand is undergoing change, affected
employees will be given preference and priority for this position.
Permanent/Part Time
Job no: R1N26-153
Location: Nelson Hospital
Closing Date: Sunday, 28 June 2026