Dental Nurse - Woking

Location: Woking - Surrey

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent (36+ hours per week)

Salary: Competitive hourly rate (based on experience and qualifications)

Hours: Monday – Friday, flexible full-time hours

About the Role: We are seeking a knowledgeable, caring, and enthusiastic Dental Nurse to join our friendly, modern practice. This is a full-time permanent position where you will deliver exceptional chairside support, maintain the highest standards of infection control, and play a key role in our collaborative, patient‑centred team.

Responsibilities:

• Chairside Assisting: Provide skilled, efficient chairside support to our dentists across all general and specialist procedures. Ensure patient comfort, safety, and reassurance throughout treatment. Anticipate clinician needs and maintain smooth, uninterrupted clinical workflows. Maintain accurate clinical records and support digital workflows.
• Surgery & Instrument Management: Prepare surgeries, instruments, and materials in line with clinical protocols and best practice. Set up for multiple procedures across several surgeries. Maintain efficient, organised working areas.
• Infection Control & Decontamination: Ensure strict adherence to infection control and cross‑infection prevention procedures. Manage decontamination, sterilisation, and instrument care to the highest standards. Maintain compliance with clinical governance and best practice. Support the practice in maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and safety.
• Patient Care & Communication: Provide a calm, reassuring presence for patients, building confidence and trust. Communicate professionally with patients and support clinical teams in patient education. Contribute to creating a welcoming, patient‑centred environment.
• Team Collaboration: Work collaboratively with dentists and all team members. Support a positive, professional practice culture. Assist with ongoing team training and induction of new staff where appropriate. Contribute ideas and raise concerns constructively within the team.

What We're Looking For:

• Essential Qualifications: Active GDC registration as a Dental Nurse. A recognised UK Dental Nursing qualification (NVQ Level 3 / Diploma in Dental Nursing or equivalent). A decent level of practical experience as a qualified Dental Nurse.
• Essential Skills & Attributes: Strong understanding of clinical workflows and infection control standards. Careful, empathetic approach with genuine compassion for patients. A proactive, reliable team player who thrives in a fast‑paced environment. Calm, patient‑focused demeanour; able to keep composure under pressure. Strong organisational skills and attention to detail. Commitment to maintaining high professional standards.
• Desirable (but not essential): Familiarity with Exact dental practice software (training will be provided). Additional qualifications (e.g., radiography certification, extended duties). Experience in specialist dentistry or sedation. Previous experience in a well‑equipped, modern dental environment.

What We Offer:

• Compensation & Benefits: Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications. All GDC registration and indemnity insurance costs fully covered. Bonus scheme based on practice performance. Enhanced maternity/paternity leave. Life assurance and pension scheme. 25 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays. Birthday off as an additional benefit. Option to buy 3 additional days of leave per year.
• Professional Development: Full training provided in all areas of the role. Access to ongoing clinical training and support. Opportunity to develop skills and progress your career. Supportive guidance from experienced clinicians and team. Room for development and internal career opportunities.
• Working Environment: Modern, well‑equipped surgeries with advanced technology. Collaborative, multi‑disciplinary team. Staff room with treats and refreshments.
• Additional Perks: Every minute of overtime is paid. Potential sponsorship available for suitable candidates.
• Hours & Flexibility: Flexible scheduling available (discuss with the team at interview). The practice is open 7 days a week; we welcome candidates open to occasional additional hours (all overtime paid).
• Working with the Team: You will work directly with our dentists and clinical team. Supportive, friendly practice culture where your development matters. Regular team meetings and open communication. No role hierarchy — your ideas and concerns are valued.

Professional Requirements: Active GDC registration is mandatory before your start date. You must be committed to maintaining GDC Continuing Professional Development (CPD) requirements (fully funded by us). Enhanced DBS clearance required. Any GDC fitness‑to‑practice investigations or sanctions must be disclosed immediately. You will be subject to standard employment background checks and reference checks.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES: We are an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, gender, gender identity, marriage or civil partnership status, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. Sponsorship available for suitable candidates.