School Based Trainee – Dental Assistant – Warilla

Kick-start your career in healthcare while still at school – and get paid to learn!

$11.64 per hour + 12% super | Temporary Part-time (Traineeship: 1 Feb 2026 to 1 Jan 2028 | Warilla | REQ625366 | Grade: School Based Trainee | Applications close: 16 December 2025

Join us in shaping healthier futures. Together we can do more.

This School-Based Traineeship is a fantastic opportunity for students with an interest in health, specifically Oral Health, to gain hands-on experience in the dental industry while working towards a nationally recognised Certificate III in Dental Assisting.

As a dental assisting trainee, you’ll be part of a professional dental team, helping support dentists, hygienists and therapists in delivering quality care to patients. You’ll learn how to prepare and sterilise equipment, mix dental materials, and assist during procedures – all while maintaining high standards of infection control. You’ll also gain valuable experience with reception and admin tasks, giving you a well-rounded understanding of how a busy dental clinic operates.

For more information and to view the position classification, see the Position Description here.

A little about us.

ISLHD operate four hospital sites on Dharawal Country in the Illawarra: Coledale District Hospital, Bulli District Hospital, Wollongong Hospital and Shellharbour Hospital.

With the ocean to the east and the escarpment to the west, there are also many benefits of living and working in the Illawarra. The contrast between mountains and beach gives the South Coast its own special charm. Life is lived at a slower pace, with mornings spent exploring cafes, eateries or food markets, and afternoons spent at the beach, on bushwalks or at one of many world-class wineries.

Benefits of working with ISLHD.

We understand that balancing career aspirations with the demand of the everyday, as well as maintaining a healthy work-life balance, can be a challenge. To help with this, we offer a range of benefits which include:

-          Fitness Passport - discounted gym membership that both you and your family can enjoy (eligible employees)

-          Employee Assistance Program (EAP) - free confidential and professional assistance for staff and their families

-          Early Career Opportunities – Begin your career journey while still at school, gaining hands-on experience in a supportive healthcare environment.

-          Nationally Recognised Qualifications – Graduate with your HSC and a qualification that’s valued across Australia, giving you a head start in the workforce.

-          Paid Learning – Earn while you learn at work.

-          University Pathways – Boost your chances of early university entry through supported education and experience in healthcare.

-          Dedicated Support – Receive guidance and mentorship from experienced clinical staff and a dedicated Student Engagement Coordinator.

-          Additional Leave

-          Enjoy 2 sick leave days and 2 annual leave days per year, tailored for student participants. Work Locally – Enjoy the convenience and community connection of working close to home.

Apply now by reading the Position Description, then, using our online portal, submit a resume and respond to the targeted questions listed below. In addition, please note you must have the following essential requirements:

-          Applicable vaccination requirements for a Category A role.

The targeted questions (max 300 words each):

-          Tell us about a time when you used great communication skills that led to a positive outcome.

-          Tell us why you’re interested in this role.

This is a temporary position due to being funded.

ISLHD is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

ISLHD is dedicated to fostering a child-safe environment that respects and upholds the rights of children and young people, aligned with NSW Health’s commitment to implementing the Child Safe Standards. We aim to ensure that children and young people feel safe, supported, and included in their care. All current and prospective staff are expected to prioritise the safety, welfare, and wellbeing of children and young people, actively working to protect them from harm and abuse.

Need more information or help applying?

-          Visit the ISLHD website for application tips, to learn more about ISLHD and other important application information.

-          Visit the Stepping Up website here. Stepping Up supports Aboriginal people to navigate the recruitment process and find a career or employment in NSW Health.

-          Follow us on social media: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.

-          For role-related queries or help applying, contact Tracy King at ​Tracy.King2@health.nsw.gov.au