Dietary Services Leader

Description

Registered Dietician/Dietary Services Leader will work under the supervision of the COO, the Registered Dietician/Dietary Services Leader is responsible for the planning, organizing, and developing of food service systems to include the daily operation and supervision of the Dietary Services department and its staff. to ensure all food is prepared in accordance with established recipes, hospital policies, and food safety regulations. The ideal candidate will possess a comprehensive understanding of clinical nutrition, patient assessment, and care planning, with a focus on delivering personalized nutritional support across diverse settings. As a Registered Dietitian, you will be responsible for evaluating patients’ nutritional needs, developing tailored care plans, and providing expert guidance to improve health outcomes. This role offers an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patient well-being through evidence-based nutritional interventions. Statutory Authority established by: Hospital RCW 43.20.050; Nursing Home WAC 248-18-180 & WAC 388-97-120; Washington Food Code WAC 246-215.

Essential Functions

• Proven experience as a Registered Dietitian within hospital or clinical environments is essential.
• Conduct thorough patient assessments to determine nutritional status and identify specific dietary needs.
• Demonstrated expertise in managing dietary needs for geriatrics, acute care patients, and those requiring long-term nutritional support.
• Supervising experience in dietary departments or healthcare teams is highly desirable.
• Strong background in nutrition science, physiology, and diagnostic evaluation techniques.
• Monitor patient progress and adjust Care Plans, accordingly, using diagnostic evaluation techniques and EMR (Electronic Medical Records) systems used for patient documentation and care coordination to collaborate with the healthcare teams for overall patient care practices.
• Prior experience with dietary programs, care plans development, and dietary management in hospital or long-term care settings is preferred.  
• Knowledge of tube feeding protocols, Geriatrics nutrition strategies, and dietary adjustments for various medical conditions. 

· Meal Preparation: Prepare, cook, and portion meals for patients, staff, and visitors, following hospital menus and dietary restrictions. Ensure meals meet quality standards for taste, appearance, and nutrition.

· Dietary Compliance: Follow prescribed dietary guidelines and restrictions for patient meals (e.g., low-sodium, diabetic, gluten-free, etc.). Collaborate with team as a registered dietician to accommodate special dietary needs.

· Food Safety & Hygiene: Adhere to all food safety guidelines, including proper food handling, storage, sanitation, and cleaning practices in compliance with Washington state health regulations.

· Inventory Management: Assist in managing kitchen inventory, including ordering, receiving, and stocking food and kitchen supplies. Monitor and report inventory levels to avoid shortages.

· Kitchen Maintenance: Ensure kitchen equipment is clean, well-maintained, and used properly. Report any maintenance or safety issues with kitchen equipment to supervisors.

· Collaboration: Work closely with other kitchen staff to maintain a smooth workflow. Participate in team meetings to discuss menu changes, dietary needs, and patient feedback.

· Patient Interaction: Respond to patient food preferences and provide alternative meal options when necessary, ensuring patient satisfaction and comfort.

Working Conditions:

· May be required to work weekdays and/or weekends, evenings, and/or night shifts if needed to meet deadlines.

· May be required to work on religious and/or legal holidays on scheduled days/shifts. 

· Will required to work in a hospital kitchen environment, with exposure to hot equipment, food allergens, and cleaning chemicals.

· May be required to perform other duties assigned by supervisor  

Skills: 

· Supervising experience in dietary departments or healthcare teams. · Knowledge of food preparation, kitchen equipment, and proper cooking techniques. 

· Ability to follow detailed recipes and meal plans while ensuring dietary compliance. 

· Strong attention to food safety, cleanliness, and sanitation standards. 

· Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and prioritize tasks effectively. 

· Excellent communication and teamwork skills. 

Requirements

Qualifications:

· Education / Experience: Bachelor of Science Degree in human foods & nutrition degree, dietetics, or food management is required to work as a Dietician. 

Formal dietary training or food service evidence of completion of 900 hours, accumulated over a maximum of 36 months of continuous preprofessional experience in dietetics.

· Experience: Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in institutional cooking experience, food service, or a healthcare setting. Experience in a hospital kitchen is a plus.

· Certifications:

Washington state food handlers’ card or able to obtain upon hire

Verification of current Written examination with the Commission on Dietetic Registration