RECEPTIONIST AND TEMPORARY DENTAL SURGERY ASSISTANT – Olive Branch Dental 1294 views

A minimum of a Senior Secondary School Certificate (SSC) or equivalent is usually required, along with basic computer literacy and strong communication skills. While formal dental assisting certification is not always mandatory for temporary roles, completion of a short course in dental assisting from institutions like BOCODOL or a recognised private training provider is increasingly preferred by employers in Gaborone and major towns.

You’ll manage front-desk duties—answering calls, scheduling appointments, handling patient records—and assist the dentist during procedures by sterilising instruments, preparing trays, and supporting infection control protocols aligned with Botswana’s Ministry of Health and Wellness guidelines. Flexibility is key: you may switch between administrative tasks and clinical support depending on patient flow and team needs, especially in smaller practices like Olive Branch Dental.

Respect for hierarchy, punctuality, and courteous interaction with patients—especially elders and those from diverse cultural backgrounds—are strongly emphasised in Botswana’s health sector. Dress code typically requires modest, professional attire (e.g., scrubs or smart business casual), and fluency in English is essential, while Setswana language skills are highly valued for effective patient communication in public and private clinics.

With experience and further training—such as a National Diploma in Dental Therapy from the University of Botswana or BOCODOL—you may progress to full-time dental assistant, practice coordinator, or pursue nursing or oral health technician pathways. Some professionals transition into practice management or register with the Botswana Allied Health Professionals Council (BAHPC) for formal recognition and broader employment options.

Employers must comply with the Employment Act and provide at least 24 days of paid annual leave, sick leave as per medical certification, and adherence to the Botswana National Pension Scheme (BNPS) contributions. Medical aid is not legally mandated but is commonly offered by established private practices; confirm coverage details—including dependants’ eligibility—during the interview, as offerings vary significantly across clinics.

Submit a tailored CV and cover letter via email or in person, highlighting customer service experience, familiarity with dental terminology, and any local work history—employers value references from previous Botswana-based employers. They prioritise reliability, discretion with patient information (aligned with Botswana’s Data Protection Act), and evidence of adaptability in fast-paced, people-focused environments common in Gaborone and Francistown dental practices.