Essential Job Details

• Position Title: Community Oral Health Officer (COHO)
• Job Requisition ID: TWivCR7SBo
• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Employment Type: Part-Time, Permanent
• Number of Vacancies: 1
• Salary: Not disclosed
• Category/Department: Medical Centres (Dental Services)
• Reporting To: Dental Services Manager or Clinical Director (inferred from industry standards)
• Application Deadline: Not specified (apply as soon as possible, rolling basis)
• Posted Date: August 1, 2025

Introduction

The Community Oral Health Officer (COHO) role at Penda Health in Nairobi is a pivotal part-time position designed for a dedicated dental professional committed to promoting oral health and delivering high-quality dental services. This role focuses on conducting dental examinations, providing preventive care, educating patients on oral hygiene, and supporting dentists in diagnostic and treatment processes. Ideal for Kenyan professionals with a Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Community Oral Health, a valid KMPDC license, and at least two years of post-internship experience in a dental clinic, this position offers a flexible opportunity to contribute to Penda Health’s mission of delivering trustworthy healthcare across Africa while advancing your career in Nairobi’s vibrant healthcare sector.

As a COHO, you will play a critical role in preventing dental diseases, enhancing patient care through education and outreach, and collaborating with healthcare teams to integrate oral health with overall wellness. With a focus on patient safety, ethical conduct, and community engagement, this role is perfect for individuals who thrive in a collaborative, mission-driven environment and are passionate about making a lasting impact on oral health in Nairobi and beyond.

About Penda Health

Penda Health is an award-winning healthcare company dedicated to providing high-quality, trustworthy healthcare to everyone in Africa. Operating 16 Medical Centres across Nairobi and Kiambu Counties, Penda Health employs over 350 professionals committed to tech-enabled, patient-focused care. With a vision to ensure accessible and reliable healthcare, the organization is pursuing a profitable, sustainable expansion over the next two years to strengthen its network. Penda Health fosters a culture of accountability, integrity, and continuous improvement, valuing diversity, collaboration, and innovation. By joining Penda Health, you will contribute to a dynamic team dedicated to transforming healthcare in Africa while advancing your career in a supportive, inclusive environment that embodies the Penda Way—a commitment to teamwork, excellence, and exceeding expectations.

Key Responsibilities

The Community Oral Health Officer (COHO) is responsible for delivering dental services, promoting oral health education, and supporting quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient outcomes. The role involves collaboration with dentists, dental nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide integrated care. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key responsibilities:

1. Dental Examinations and Treatment

• Conduct dental examinations to identify common oral health conditions, such as dental caries, gingivitis, and oral infections, ensuring accurate diagnoses.
• Provide oral hygiene dental services, including cleanings, scaling, fluoride applications, and other preventive treatments, under the supervision of a dentist.
• Support dentists with diagnostic and preventive care measures, assisting in procedures like dental impressions, sealants, and minor restorative work.
• Manage treatment for common dental conditions, ensuring alignment with Penda Health’s standards and clinical guidelines.
• Monitor patient progress, adjusting care plans as needed to promote optimal oral health outcomes.

2. Oral Health Education and Community Outreach

• Develop and implement oral health education initiatives, focusing on preventive care and best practices for oral hygiene, such as proper brushing and flossing techniques.
• Educate patients and caregivers on maintaining healthy teeth and gums, addressing topics like diet, oral hygiene habits, and the importance of regular dental check-ups.
• Participate in community outreach programs to promote dental health awareness, engaging with local communities to drive patient growth and preventive care adoption.
• Counsel patients on oral health strategies, tailoring advice to diverse backgrounds and needs to enhance adherence and outcomes.

3. Collaboration and Teamwork

• Collaborate with dentists, dental nurses, and other healthcare professionals to deliver integrated, high-quality patient care that aligns oral health with overall wellness.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient cases, share insights, and align on treatment strategies.
• Support the Dental Services Manager in implementing quality improvement initiatives to enhance dental care delivery across Penda Health’s Medical Centres.
• Contribute to a positive team environment by fostering collaboration and supporting colleagues in achieving optimal patient outcomes.

4. Compliance and Documentation

• Maintain accurate patient records in Penda Health’s Health Management Information System (HMIS), documenting examinations, treatments, and progress while adhering to confidentiality and legal standards.
• Ensure strict compliance with infection control protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and sterilization procedures, to maintain a safe clinical environment.
• Adhere to all ethical and legal standards of the medical profession, ensuring patient privacy and compliance with Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) regulations.
• Participate in clinical audits, contributing to quality improvement initiatives by implementing best practices and addressing identified gaps.

5. Inventory and Equipment Management

• Manage the inventory of dental supplies, ensuring adequate stock levels and proper storage to support clinical operations.
• Oversee the maintenance of dental equipment, coordinating repairs and servicing to ensure functionality and safety.
• Monitor supply usage, reporting needs to the Pharmacy or Procurement teams to prevent shortages or waste.

6. Data Analysis and Reporting

• Collect and analyze oral health data to identify trends, inform service improvements, and enhance patient care strategies.
• Prepare reports on oral health outcomes, contributing to monthly or quarterly reviews to support Penda Health’s quality improvement efforts.
• Document findings from community outreach and clinical activities to guide strategic planning and patient growth initiatives.

7. Professional Development and Patient Growth

• Stay updated on advancements in dental practices and technologies, applying best practices to patient care through continuous professional development.
• Attend relevant workshops, conferences, and training sessions to enhance clinical expertise and align with industry trends.
• Develop and implement strategies to attract new patients and retain existing ones, contributing to growth in dental patient numbers.
• Support Penda Health’s mission by actively participating in initiatives to enhance oral health services and patient satisfaction.

8. Additional Duties

• Embrace the Penda Way by being a collaborative teammate, going above and beyond to support colleagues and enhance their work experience.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Dental Services Manager or Clinical Director to support Penda Health’s objectives.
• Contribute to hospital-wide initiatives, such as quality improvement or community health programs, to advance Penda Health’s mission.

Qualifications and Skills

To excel as a Community Oral Health Officer (COHO) at Penda Health, candidates must meet the following qualifications and skills, as outlined in the job description and aligned with industry standards:

• Education:
• Diploma in Community Oral Health or Bachelor of Science in Oral Health from a recognized institution.
• Registered with the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) with a valid practicing license.
• Experience:
• Minimum 2 years of post-internship experience in a dental clinic, demonstrating proficiency in oral health examinations and preventive care.
• Technical Skills:
• Expertise in dental examinations and preventive treatments, including cleanings, scaling, and fluoride applications.
• Knowledge of infection control protocols to ensure a safe and sterile clinical environment.
• Proficiency in using Health Management Information Systems (HMIS) for accurate record-keeping and reporting.
• Ability to manage dental supplies and equipment, ensuring operational readiness and compliance.
• Skills in data analysis to collect and interpret oral health data for service improvements.
• Behavioral Competencies:
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage effectively with patients, caregivers, and colleagues.
• Empathy and compassion to provide patient-centered care to diverse populations.
• Strong organizational and time-management abilities to handle clinical and administrative tasks efficiently.
• Commitment to professional development and continuous learning to stay updated with dental advancements.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and lead initiatives to grow patient numbers.
• Strong commitment to patient safety, confidentiality, and ethical conduct, aligning with Penda Health’s values.
• Preferred Skills:
• Experience in community outreach programs to promote dental health awareness.
• Ability to drive patient growth through strategic initiatives and exceptional care.
• Familiarity with clinical audits and quality improvement processes in dental care.

Company Culture and Values

Penda Health fosters a dynamic, inclusive, and patient-centric culture, rooted in its vision of ensuring everyone in Africa has access to trustworthy healthcare. The organization values accountability, integrity, compassion, and continuous improvement, creating a workplace where employees are empowered to deliver high-quality care and contribute to meaningful change. With a commitment to diversity and equal opportunity, Penda Health supports a collaborative environment that encourages innovation and professional growth. As a Community Oral Health Officer, you will thrive in a culture that prioritizes patient safety, teamwork, and excellence, aligning with the Penda Way—a commitment to being a great teammate and exceeding expectations.

How to Apply

Apply now for the Community Oral Health Officer (COHO) position at Penda Health. To submit your application:

• Prepare your detailed CV and cover letter, clearly stating the job title (Community Oral Health Officer) and Job Requisition ID (TWivCR7SBo) in the subject line.
• Attach your CV as a .pdf, .doc, .docx, .odt, .txt, or .rtf file (limit 5MB) or paste your resume directly into the application form.
• Submit your application via the online portal: Apply for Community Oral Health Officer.
• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Note: Penda Health is an equal opportunity employer and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. For assistance or accommodations due to a disability, contact the employer directly through the application portal.

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Tags

Community Oral Health Officer, Nairobi jobs, dental care careers, healthcare jobs, oral health specialist

Role Overview

The Community Oral Health Officer (COHO) role at Penda Health in Nairobi is a critical part-time position within the Dental Services department, focusing on delivering preventive dental care, promoting oral health education, and supporting dentists in clinical operations. This role involves conducting examinations, providing treatments, and driving community outreach to enhance oral health outcomes. Ideal for professionals with a Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Community Oral Health and two years of post-internship experience, this position offers a flexible opportunity to contribute to Penda Health’s mission of delivering trustworthy healthcare while advancing your career in Nairobi.

Why This Role Matters

As a Community Oral Health Officer, you will play a vital role in preventing dental diseases and improving oral health outcomes at Penda Health, directly impacting patient well-being across Nairobi and Kiambu Counties. By providing preventive care, educating communities, and collaborating with healthcare teams, you will contribute to Penda Health’s vision of accessible, high-quality healthcare. This part-time role is both impactful and rewarding, offering the opportunity to make a significant difference in Nairobi’s healthcare landscape while maintaining flexibility for personal commitments.

Program Context: Dental Services at Penda Health

Penda Health’s Dental Services department is a key component of its mission to deliver tech-enabled, high-quality healthcare across its 16 Medical Centres. The Community Oral Health Officer role supports this mission by providing preventive and diagnostic dental services, promoting oral health education, and integrating oral care with overall health strategies. By collaborating with dentists and other healthcare professionals, the role ensures comprehensive patient care and aligns with Penda Health’s commitment to excellence and accessibility.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

The Community Oral Health Officer will engage in a variety of clinical and community-focused tasks to support oral health and departmental goals. Daily responsibilities include:

• Dental Examinations: Conducting oral health assessments to diagnose common conditions.
• Preventive Treatments: Providing cleanings, scaling, fluoride applications, and sealants.
• Patient Education: Counseling patients on oral hygiene and preventive care practices.
• Community Outreach: Participating in programs to promote dental health awareness.
• Collaboration: Working with dentists and healthcare teams to deliver integrated care.
• Inventory Management: Monitoring dental supplies and maintaining equipment.
• Data Analysis: Collecting and reporting oral health data to inform service improvements.
• Compliance: Adhering to KMPDC regulations and infection control protocols.

Skills Development Opportunities

The Community Oral Health Officer role offers significant opportunities for professional growth, including:

• Enhancing Dental Expertise: Mastering preventive and diagnostic dental techniques.
• Developing Community Engagement Skills: Gaining experience in outreach and patient education.
• Building Compliance Knowledge: Deepening expertise in KMPDC regulations and infection control.
• Strengthening Data Analysis Skills: Analyzing oral health data to drive service improvements.
• Improving Organizational Skills: Managing clinical schedules, inventory, and records efficiently.
• Advancing Patient-Centered Care: Enhancing skills in empathy and communication for diverse patients.

These opportunities position you for career advancement in dental care, clinical support, or leadership roles within Penda Health or the broader healthcare sector.

Working in Nairobi

Nairobi, Kenya’s capital and largest city, is a vibrant hub for healthcare and medical innovation, hosting leading hospitals and a thriving professional community. As a Community Oral Health Officer at Penda Health, you will work part-time across its 16 Medical Centres in Nairobi and Kiambu Counties, engaging with diverse patients and healthcare teams in a dynamic environment. Nairobi’s economic and cultural vibrancy provides an ideal setting for delivering high-quality oral care while advancing your career in a flexible, part-time role.

Career Growth Potential

The Community Oral Health Officer role is a gateway to advanced roles in dental care, clinical support, or healthcare management. By working with Penda Health, you will gain exposure to advanced dental practices, community health initiatives, and quality improvement strategies. Key career growth prospects include:

• Senior Dental Roles: Advancing to positions like Lead COHO or Dental Services Coordinator.
• Clinical Support Roles: Transitioning to roles in patient education or community health.
• Leadership Opportunities: Moving into supervisory or management positions within dental services.
• Professional Development: Accessing training programs and certifications through KMPDC or Penda Health.
• Regional Impact: Contributing to Penda Health’s expansion across East Africa.

The part-time nature of the role offers flexibility while providing a strong foundation for long-term career growth in healthcare.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Penda Health is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of background. The organization upholds strict policies against discrimination and prioritizes accessibility for candidates with disabilities. As a Community Oral Health Officer, you will contribute to a culture of compassion, accountability, and excellence, aligning with the Penda Way and Penda Health’s values of quality care and patient-centricity. The diverse patient base and collaborative environment create a supportive setting for professional success.

Who Should Apply

The Community Oral Health Officer role is ideal for professionals with a Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Community Oral Health, a valid KMPDC practicing license, and at least two years of post-internship experience in a dental clinic. If you have excellent communication skills, empathy for patients, and a commitment to professional development, this part-time position offers a chance to thrive in Nairobi’s healthcare industry.

How to Stand Out as an Applicant

To increase your chances of being shortlisted for the Community Oral Health Officer role:

• Highlight Clinical Experience: Emphasize your 2+ years of post-internship dental clinic experience in your CV.
• Showcase KMPDC Registration: Include your valid practicing license and compliance expertise.
• Demonstrate Patient-Centered Skills: Provide examples of patient education and community outreach.
• Emphasize Collaboration: Highlight your ability to work with dentists and healthcare teams.
• Align with Penda’s Values: Reflect your commitment to the Penda Way and excellence in your cover letter.

Application Tips

When applying for the Community Oral Health Officer position:

• Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant experience in dental examinations, preventive care, and outreach.
• Write a Concise Cover Letter: Address your alignment with Penda Health’s mission and your qualifications for the role.
• Submit Early: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so apply as soon as possible.
• Ensure Accuracy: Verify that your CV and cover letter are correctly formatted and include the Job Requisition ID (TWivCR7SBo).
• Prepare for Interviews: Be ready to discuss your clinical expertise, patient engagement, and community outreach experience.

Why Work at Penda Health

Working as a Community Oral Health Officer at Penda Health offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a leading healthcare organization while advancing your career in Nairobi. Key benefits include:

• Impactful Work: Promote oral health and prevent dental diseases through patient care and education.
• Flexible Schedule: Enjoy the flexibility of a part-time role to balance professional and personal commitments.
• Dynamic Culture: Join a collaborative team committed to compassion and innovation.
• Career Advancement: Access pathways to senior dental or leadership roles.
• Regional Impact: Contribute to Penda Health’s expansion across East Africa.

By joining Penda Health, you will play a critical role in delivering trustworthy oral healthcare, supporting patient well-being, and building a rewarding career in a mission-driven organization.

Additional Information

Penda Health is an equal opportunity employer committed to fair and transparent recruitment processes. Canvassing or presenting fake certificates will lead to disqualification, and no fees are charged for applications. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. For more details, refer to the official application portal: Apply for Community Oral Health Officer.

Conclusion

The Community Oral Health Officer role at Penda Health in Nairobi is a transformative opportunity for dental professionals passionate about promoting oral health and delivering high-quality care. By joining Penda Health, you will provide preventive dental services, engage in community outreach, and contribute to a leading healthcare organization’s mission. With a focus on quality, compassion, and career growth, this part-time role offers a chance to make a lasting impact in Nairobi’s healthcare industry. Apply today to become part of Penda Health’s vision to deliver trustworthy healthcare to all.