Nutrition Assistant I: Patient Nutrition Services

The Nutrition Assistant is responsible for supporting patient nutrition services while displaying a professional, service-focused work style that reflects the mission, vision, and values of the department and hospital. This role helps ensure patients receive accurate, safe, and high-quality meal service based on their dietary needs, preferences, allergies, cultural considerations, and special diet requirements.

The Nutrition Assistant works under the direction of the Nutrition Assistant Lead, Patient Care Supervisors, and Patient Services Operations Manager. This role also collaborates with clinical nutrition staff and nursing teams to support patient satisfaction, food safety, sanitation standards, and overall quality of service.

Qualifications

• Required: High school diploma or equivalent
• Preferred: Previous food service, customer service, or hospital experience
• Previous exposure to a hospital environment
• Computer skills
• Knowledge of therapeutic diets
• College students majoring in Registered Dietitian, Dietetic Technician, or related fields
• Licenses: No license required
• Certifications: ServSafe Certification preferred
• Physical Requirements: Ability to meet the physical requirements of the role, including standing for extended periods, walking, lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, bending, reaching, and working in a fast-paced food service or patient care environment

Responsibilities

• Deliver nutrition services to patients in a professional and customer-focused manner
• Obtain patient meal selections using a computerized tablet and electronic diet office system
• Document patient food preferences, including likes, dislikes, allergies, cultural needs, and special dietary requirements
• Prepare food items according to patient dietary needs and established guidelines
• Follow safe food handling practices and sanitation standards
• Participate on trayline to ensure accurate tray setup
• Deliver and retrieve patient trays according to established patient safety guidelines
• Communicate with patients, nursing, clinical nutrition staff, and department leadership to support patient satisfaction
• Maintain a professional image in communication, appearance, and conduct
• Participate in continuous quality improvement activities by completing required forms and preventative maintenance logs
• Contribute to positive customer relations by providing high-quality service
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the lead, supervisor, or manager