Job Description

Department: Food Service

Location: Facility Level – Optalis Health & Rehabilitation

Reports To: Administrator / Director of Food Service

FLSA Status: Salary Exempt

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The Dietitian is responsible for providing nutrition services that meet residents’ daily dietary needs in accordance with comprehensive care plans. This role develops and evaluates nutrition programs, oversees dietary assessments, ensures compliance with state and federal regulations, and collaborates with facility leadership and food service staff to promote resident health and well-being.

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Key Responsibilities:

• Assess residents’ nutritional needs and complete nutrition assessments, MDS sections, and care plans.
• Monitor resident weights, food acceptance, and nutritional outcomes, documenting interventions and results.
• Collaborate with nursing, medical, and food service teams to ensure nutrition interventions are integrated into care plans.
• Plan menus in accordance with recommended dietary allowances, CMS regulations, and resident preferences.
• Conduct meal observations and audits to ensure quality, compliance, and resident satisfaction.
• Develop and deliver in-service education for dietary staff and other facility personnel.
• Participate in interdisciplinary care conferences and survey preparation.
• Promote resident rights, dignity, and individualized choice in nutrition services.

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Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of clinical nutrition, therapeutic diets, and food safety standards.
• Familiarity with CMS, state dietary regulations, and long-term care requirements.
• Ability to conduct nutrition assessments and develop individualized care plans.
• Effective communication, education, and teamwork abilities.

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Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition or Dietetics.
• Active registration by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (RDN).

Preferred:

• Experience in long-term care or skilled nursing facilities.
• Advanced certification in gerontological nutrition or food service management.

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Physical & Work Requirements

• Ability to move freely within facility, attend resident care meetings, and conduct audits.
• Prolonged standing and walking during meal observations and audits.

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Personal Attributes:

• Integrity and professionalism
• Attention to detail
• Compassion and empathy
• Educational and mentoring mindset

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