Lead Clinical Trainer at Affiliated Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics en Specialty Dental Brands

Description

The Pediatric Clinical Trainer is responsible for the onboarding, training, and continued development of clinical team members across pediatric dental and orthodontic departments. This role ensures all clinical protocols, systems, and patient care standards are consistently upheld, while creating a culture of learning, accountability, and excellence. The Clinical Trainer will serve as a key bridge between leadership and clinical staff to elevate team performance, support clinical quality, and help maintain a cohesive and high-performing team culture.

Vision Statement: 

To cultivate a confident, cohesive, and empowered clinical team by providing hands-on training, clear expectations, and continuous support—ensuring every assistant delivers exceptional care with consistency, compassion, and pride.

Mission Statement: 

As the Lead Clinical Trainer, I lead by example to elevate the skill, confidence, and consistency of our clinical team. I train with clarity, coach with compassion, and hold high standards that reflect our commitment to exceptional care. I partner closely with doctors and leadership, support individual growth, and drive a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous learning.

Key Responsibilities:

Training & Onboarding:

· Lead the onboarding and clinical training of new dental and orthodontic assistants, ensuring they meet practice standards in technique, efficiency, and patient interaction.

· Develop and maintain structured training checklists, timelines, and evaluation tools.

· Provide hands-on clinical coaching, including chairside observation, technique guidance, and protocol reinforcement.

· Follow up with doctors after assistant shadow days, skill evaluations, or milestone check-ins to ensure alignment and gather feedback.

· Partner with department leads to tailor training plans to individual learning styles and role-specific expectations.

Clinical Systems & Standards:

· Ensure consistent execution of clinical protocols, sterilization guidelines, and safety standards.

· Conduct periodic skill refreshers and technique calibration to maintain consistency across providers and departments.

· Audit clinical workflows and identify training needs, skill gaps, or system inefficiencies.

Leadership & Communication:

· Serve as a trusted mentor and point-of-contact for clinical team members navigating challenges or new responsibilities.

· Provide real-time feedback and positive reinforcement, escalating concerns appropriately.

· Keep doctors informed on the training progress and performance status of assistants; collaborate to align expectations and support growth.

· Support department leads in coaching, accountability conversations, and performance improvement plans (PIPs) when needed.

Professional Development & Culture:

· Encourage growth-mindset, confidence-building, and career development within the clinical team.

· Collaborate with leadership to develop CE opportunities and hands-on workshops.

· Champion practice values and helps create a cohesive, respectful, and supportive work environment.

Required Qualifications:

· 3+ years of clinical dental assisting experience in a pediatric or orthodontic setting.

· AZ X-ray and Coronal Polish Certifications

· Demonstrated ability to train, coach, or mentor others successfully.

· Strong understanding of infection control, radiology, dental software, and clinical best practices.

· Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.

· Calm under pressure, approachable, and patient centered.

Preferred Qualifications:

· Experience in multi-provider or multi-specialty practice environments.

· Familiarity with digital workflows and chartless systems.