Program Director, Dental Hygiene

Position Title

Dental Hygiene Program Director

Description

At Chattanooga College MDTC, the Dental Hygiene Program Director will help implement our strategy of “Where a small school can make a BIG difference!!”. The Dental Hygiene Program Director will provide administrative leadership and academic oversight to the Dental Hygiene department and its students to support program accreditation, student retention, and clinical excellence.

This includes responsibilities such as curriculum development, clinical supervision, faculty management, and ensuring total compliance with the Commission on Dental Accreditation (CODA) standards. Ideal candidates must have excellent interpersonal, communication, problem-solving, and listening skills. Candidates must be able to adapt to a fast-paced work environment and manage multiple priorities and changing assignments.

This is a professional and instructional position supporting the Dental Hygiene Department. This role requires considerable interaction with students, faculty, and external partners—including CODA and clinical sites—through individual meetings, group sessions, and/or events. Dental Hygiene Program Directors are expected to possess extensive knowledge of CODA accreditation requirements, clinical safety protocols, and state dental board regulations.

They must be able to interpret individual needs, provide personalized support, and work effectively with individuals who may be confused, stressed, or demanding. Employees in this role can expect to support individuals regarding academic plans and professional goals , assist with decision-making related to clinical education and institutional processes , and help guide individuals toward successful licensure and career outcomes. This position requires maintaining confidentiality and accurate records to ensure compliance with accreditation standards, institutional policies, and federal regulations such as FERPA and HIPAA.

The role may also support institutional events such as Orientation, Graduation, or community health outreach activities. A strong commitment to equity, access, and success for underrepresented or at-risk populations is essential.

Responsibilities

• Provides clinical and academic leadership to a diverse population of dental hygiene students, including regular contact regarding clinical performance.
• Implements institutional or departmental strategic priorities related to CODA accreditation, program completion, and board exam success.
• Counsels, advises, or supports students through individual and group sessions to address academic concerns and provide career guidance.
• Educates individuals on institutional resources, clinical policies, and professional ethics.
• Implements solutions, including dental clinic technology and software, to promote efficiency and student success.
• Completes required professional development and clinical training annually.
• Supports department-wide initiatives and student services.
• Maintains accurate documentation and student records in compliance with CODA and federal requirements.
• Collaborates with departments to increase student engagement and success, especially for at-risk populations.
• Provides appropriate referrals for personal or academic concerns that may impair student success.
• Upholds confidentiality and complies with institutional policies and federal regulations.
• Assists with planning and coordination of events such as pinning ceremonies and workshops.
• Maintains clinical tools, systems, and supplies necessary to effectively perform job duties.
• Remains current on relevant state and federal dental guidelines and emerging best practices in dental hygiene education.
• Collaborates with the Dean of Allied Health or College Leadership.
• Please note: This job description is not exhaustive, and additional duties may be assigned as needed.

Skills

• Strong interpersonal, communication, and public presentation skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, faculty, and clinical partners.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally in verbal and written formats.
• Knowledge of the role’s function in supporting learning, clinical access, and student success.
• Ability to use technology to support services, including Microsoft Office, student information systems, and dental practice management software.

Education & Experience

• Education or Training:
  • Must be a dental hygienist who is a graduate of a CODA-accredited program and holds a Master’s degree or higher; OR a licensed dentist (DDS/DMD).
• Experience:
  • A minimum of five (5) years of full-time clinical experience in dental hygiene or dentistry.
  • Prior experience in dental hygiene education or higher education administration is preferred.

Other Requirements

Please submit a 2–5 minute video response summarizing your qualifications, interest in the position, and the reason you feel you would be the right fit to careers@chattanoogacollege.edu. Applications that do not include the required materials will not be reviewed.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Chattanooga College MDTC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic. Chattanooga College MDTC encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and is dedicated to providing equal access to employment opportunities.