Clinical Dietitian

Job Title: Clinical Dietitian
Location: Salinas, CA
Duration: 3 Months+ and Possibility of Extension
 
Pay Rate: $57/hr. on W2

Department: Clinical Nutrition
Reports To: Clinical Nutrition Manager
 
Job Summary:
Under the supervision of the Clinical Nutrition Manager, the Clinical Dietitian provides comprehensive nutrition care to patients through assessment, counseling, care planning, education, and interdisciplinary collaboration. This role serves as a key nutritional consultant to the healthcare team, actively contributes to policy development, and ensures patient-focused, evidence-based nutrition services across the continuum of care.
 
Key Responsibilities:

1. Nutrition Assessment & Care Planning
   • Assess patients’ nutritional status and risks using evidence-based guidelines.
   • Develop and implement individualized nutrition care plans.
   • Modify plans based on patient response and changing clinical condition.
2. Patient & Family Counseling
   • Provide education and counseling on diet, lifestyle changes, and therapeutic nutrition tailored to diagnosis and patient goals.
   • Empower patients and caregivers through clear, compassionate communication.
3. Interdisciplinary Collaboration
   • Act as a nutrition consultant and resource for physicians, nurses, and other healthcare staff.
   • Communicate nutrition-related updates in patient care team meetings and documentation.
4. Documentation & Record-Keeping
   • Maintain accurate and timely clinical notes, assessments, and care plans in compliance with hospital and regulatory standards.
   • Complete documentation of services rendered in EMR systems within required timeframes.
5. Education & Policy Involvement
   • Participate in the development of clinical protocols, standards of care, and departmental policies.
   • Assist in staff training and patient education initiatives as needed.
6. Compliance & Quality
   • Ensure all nutrition services adhere to hospital policies, accreditation requirements, and food safety standards.
   • Maintain sanitation and order in workspaces and clinical nutrition areas.
7. Professionalism & Workload Management
   • Demonstrate flexibility, efficiency, and professionalism in high-volume or high-acuity settings.
   • Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions with patients and staff.
8. Ongoing Development
   • Attend required department meetings and continuing education activities.
   • Stay current with clinical guidelines and trends in nutrition therapy.
9. Additional Duties
   • Perform other related duties as assigned by the Clinical Nutrition Manager or leadership team.

 
Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Nutrition, Dietetics, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• Completion of an accredited dietetic internship.
• Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credential required.
• Licensed Dietitian (LD) status as required by the state of practice.
• Minimum 1–2 years clinical experience in an acute care or hospital setting preferred.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Proficiency in electronic medical records and computer systems.
• Knowledge of therapeutic diets, nutrition support, and evidence-based practice.

 
Work Environment & Physical Requirements:

• Fast-paced healthcare environment.
• Requires mobility to move throughout clinical units.
• May require standing for extended periods and occasional lifting of materials or equipment.