Megan Surkitt
Department of Defence - Army
Brisbane,QLD
12
years of professional experience
Motivated Speech Pathology student and experienced Dental Assistant with a solid background in client care, clear communication, and reliable clinical support. Brings extensive experience delivering advanced chairside assistance, maintaining strict infection control standards, and contributing to efficient clinical operations. Currently seeking an Allied Health Assistant role to gain practical experience within allied health settings while completing my degree. Known for building rapport with clients, staying organised under pressure, and approaching all tasks with professionalism, empathy, and a commitment to positive client outcomes.
Work History
Senior Dental Assistant
11 Years 8 Months- Provide high-quality clinical support within a fast-paced, disciplined healthcare environment
- Assist across a range of dental procedures, ensuring excellent client care and strict adherence to infection control standards
- Manage instrument sterilisation, equipment preparation, and accurate treatment record-keeping
- Undertake interim practice management responsibilities, including coordinating staff rosters, overseeing daily workflow, monitoring stock levels, and supporting compliance with clinical standards
- Support onboarding and training of new dental staff, contributing to efficient and well-organised daily operations
- Train and assess ADF (Army) recruits in drill, weapons handling, and basic soldier skills, ensuring safety, competency, and adherence to Defence protocols
- Deliver clear, structured instruction to individuals and groups, adapting communication to varying experience levels
- Maintain a clean, organised, and compliant clinical environment in line with Defence and national standard
Education
Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Honours)
- Studying core units in communication sciences, anatomy, physiology, and clinical foundations
- Building knowledge and skills relevant to allied health support roles
- Building foundational skills relevant to allied health support across speech pathology practice areas: speech, language, voice, fluency, AAC, cognition, and literacy
Certificate IV - Dental Assisting with Radiography
Certificate III - Dental Assisting
Certificate II - Military Skills
Skills
Strong ability to work effectively within diverse teams
Highly adaptable
with experience living and working across four Australian states
Enthusiastic
motivated
and committed to achieving high standards
Compassionate and client-focused in all interactions
Professional conduct and communication in clinical and organisational settings
Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
Broad Defence experience across multiple roles
including dental assisting
recruit instructing
and working in rural and remote environments
Timeline
Senior Dental Assistant
Department of Defence - Army
01.2015 - CurrentRead More
University of Southern Queensland
Bachelor of Speech Pathology (Honours)
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Defence Registered Training Organisation
Certificate IV from Dental Assisting with Radiography
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Defence Registered Training Organisation
Certificate III from Dental Assisting
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Defence Registered Training Organisation
Certificate II from Military Skills
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Personal Information
Title: Senior Dental Assistant & Speech Pathology Student