Dental Investigator

The Division of Health Professions Licensure under the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) is seeking a dynamic Dental Investigator to play an essential role in safeguarding public health by ensuring that dental professionals and facilities operate in compliance with established laws, regulations, and standards of practice. This position combines investigative work with regulatory oversight, requiring careful evaluation of permit applications, on-site inspections, and the thorough review of complaints and evidence. As a visible representative of the Division of Health Professions Licensure, the Dental Investigator serves as both an enforcer of standards and an advisor, helping dental professionals understand and meet compliance requirements.

This role offers the opportunity to make a direct impact on the quality and safety of dental care while engaging in meaningful, detail-oriented work. From conducting inspections and interviews to preparing reports and testifying at hearings, the Dental Investigator is at the center of ensuring accountability and maintaining public trust. The position provides a dynamic blend of fieldwork and casework, making it a rewarding choice for professionals who are motivated by service, accuracy, and the pursuit of excellence in healthcare oversight.

Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive):

• Review and verify dental permit applications, including facility and anesthesia permits, for accuracy and compliance with regulations.
• Provide guidance to applicants regarding compliance with laws, rules, and regulations governing dental practice.
• Schedule and conduct on-site inspections of dental facilities to assess eligibility for permits and adherence to established standards.
• Document and monitor correction of identified deficiencies to ensure ongoing compliance with Board regulations.
• Conduct investigations of alleged violations by obtaining evidence, interviewing involved parties, and verifying information for accuracy and authenticity.
• Prepare clear, detailed reports of inspections and investigations, including recommendations for appropriate action.
• Testify at hearings and present findings to support enforcement actions and promote accountability.
• Maintain regular liaison with agency personnel and external stakeholders to exchange information, resolve issues, and encourage compliance.
• Respond to inquiries and provide information regarding agency policies, procedures, and governing regulations.
• Contribute to policy and procedure improvements by analyzing reports, identifying issues, and recommending changes to enhance regulatory effectiveness.

Required Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of clinical practice, patient safety, and quality improvement principles.
• At least 10 years of clinical experience in the field of dentistry.
• Knowledge of investigative and inspection procedures, including evidence gathering, interviewing, and records examination.
• Strong writing skills, including proficiency in business writing such as composing  memos and letters and investigation reports.
• Proficiency in data analysis, and the ability to prepare clear, concise, and logical written documentation.
• Skilled in using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook) and agency-specific databases for documentation and case management.
• Strong communication skills, with the ability to convey information clearly in both oral and written form and to provide understandable instructions.
• Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain discretion with confidential information, and remain calm in high-pressure situations.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to establish rapport, work harmoniously with diverse populations, and handle sensitive situations tactfully.
• Capable of working independently, adapting to varied work situations, and motivating others when needed.
• Knowledge of supervisory principles and experience applying leadership techniques in a professional setting.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Current and valid Massachusetts license as a dental professional, and driver’s license.
• Familiarity with administrative law, regulatory compliance, and the interpretation of legal documents such as statutes, regulations, and court decisions.

Dph Mission And Vision:

The mission of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH) is to promote and protect health and wellness and prevent injury and illness for all people, prioritizing racial equity in health by improving equitable access to quality public health and health care services and partnering with communities most impacted by health inequities and structural racism.

We envision a Commonwealth with an equitable and just public health system that supports optimal well-being for all people in Massachusetts, centering those with systemically and culturally oppressed identities and circumstances.

Learn more and share a one-pager on DPH and what we do: DPH at a Glance PDF | Doc

Pre-Hire Process:

A criminal background check will be completed on the recommended candidate as required by the regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services prior to the candidate being hired. For more information, please visit http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori

Education, licensure and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines.

Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Record Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website.

If you require assistance with the application/interview process and would like to request an ADA accommodation, please click on the link and complete the ADA Reasonable Accommodation Online Request Form

For questions regarding this requisition, please contact the Executive Office of Health and Human Services Human Resources at 1-800- 510-4122 Ext. #4

First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

Minimum Entrance Requirements: Applicants must have at least (A) four years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, experience in investigatory, law enforcement or regulatory administration work, or (B) and equivalent combination of the required experience and the substitutions below.

Substitutions:

A Bachelor's or higher degree may be substituted for a maximum of the two years of the required experience.*

*Education toward such a degree will be prorated on the basis of the proportion of the requirements actually completed.

Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate’s years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division’s Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.  Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.  Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements.  We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.