Job Description

Removable Department Manager - Dental Lab

Chicago, IL

Benefits: Full

Salary - 100-120k DOE

Job Summary

The Removable Department Manager is responsible for the overall operation, management, and quality assurance of the laboratory's removable prosthetics department (e.g., complete dentures, partial dentures, immediate dentures, night guards, etc.). This leadership role ensures the efficient, timely, and high-quality production of all removable cases, manages the technical team, and serves as a key technical liaison with prescribing dentists.

Key Responsibilities

Production & Quality Management

• Oversee the day-to-day workflow, scheduling, and distribution of removable cases to meet doctor due dates and production targets.
• Establish and enforce rigorous quality control (QC) standards at all critical stages of removable fabrication, from model work to final finish.
• Perform final inspection of all completed removable appliances to ensure they meet prescription specifications, aesthetic requirements, and lab quality benchmarks.
• Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues, problematic cases, and remake/repair inquiries.
• Manage inventory of dental materials and equipment specific to the Removable department, ensuring all supplies are ordered efficiently and maintained properly.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and motivate a team of Removable Dental Technicians, promoting a culture of precision, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Conduct technical training, coaching, and performance evaluations for department staff.
• Assist in the recruitment, interviewing, and onboarding of new Removable Technicians.
• Manage departmental scheduling, ensuring adequate staffing and coverage to handle fluctuating case volumes.

Technical Expertise & Communication

• Maintain an expert-level technical proficiency in all removable processes (both analog and digital workflows , including CAD/CAM for dentures).
• Serve as the primary technical contact for doctors and their staff regarding case planning, material selection, design specifications, and issue resolution.
• Implement new materials, techniques, and equipment to enhance departmental efficiency and product quality.
• Ensure the department is fully compliant with all safety (OSHA) and regulatory standards.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent; advanced technical training or a degree in Dental Technology is highly preferred.
• Experience:
• Minimum of 5+ years of progressive experience as a Removable Dental Technician.
• Minimum of 2+ years of experience in a leadership, supervisory, or management role within a dental laboratory setting.

Technical Skills:

• Exceptional knowledge and manual dexterity in all phases of removable prosthetics (e.g., setup, wax, processing, repairs, relines).
• Proficiency in modern Digital Dentures/Removable CAD/CAM software and equipment (e.g., 3Shape, exocad, milling/printing systems) is a strong asset.
• Management Skills: Proven ability to manage complex workflows, prioritize production schedules, and effectively lead a technical team.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills for clear interaction with staff, management, and dental clients.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous precision and commitment to delivering the highest standard of dental appliances.

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