Dietitian (Clinical)

Veterans Health Administration • Deltona, FL

24d • Hybrid

About The Position

This is a full-performance-level clinical dietitian position in the Clinical Section of Nutrition and Food Services (NFS), serving as a medical nutrition expert. The dietitian independently applies evidence-based nutrition practice guidelines to Veterans, including those with complex medical and nutritional needs. The position conducts comprehensive nutrition assessments using the Nutrition Care Process (NCP), develops and evaluates Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT), and adjusts interventions to support positive patient outcomes. It also involves nutrition support recommendations, patient and group education, interdisciplinary collaboration, accurate clinical documentation, and participation in quality improvement and new initiatives. The dietitian collaborates with Food Operations and department leadership to support patient satisfaction and improve the Veterans' dining experience.

The work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Ad-hoc telework is available; this is not a virtual position. The position is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), subject to eligibility and program approval. Potential EDRP awards are up to $200,000, with an eligibility period of one to five years. Relocation and recruitment incentives and permanent change of station are not authorized.

The full-performance assignment is at the GS-11 level. Applicants must meet the applicable VA qualification requirements, including holding the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credential, with a limited temporary-appointment exception for eligible non-credentialed dietitians. The announcement also describes GS-07 and GS-09 developmental grade qualifications. A minimum of two years of clinical nutrition experience and competency in MNT are preferred.

Requirements

• Be a U.S. citizen, subject to the stated statutory exception for non-citizens when qualified citizens cannot be recruited.
• Hold the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credential from the Commission on Dietetic Registration, except as allowed under the specified temporary-appointment exception.
• Demonstrate proficiency in spoken and written English.
• For the GS-11 full-performance level, have at least one year of experience as an RDN equivalent to the next lower grade.
• Demonstrate skill in delivering patient care using the Nutrition Care Process, interpreting research to apply evidence-based nutrition practices, developing patient-centered goals, analyzing data for performance improvement, and collaborating with stakeholders.
• Be able to comply with applicable accrediting, regulatory, and agency authorities.
• Meet applicable pre-employment conditions, including background/security investigation, onboarding and identification requirements, a pre-employment physical examination, and participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.
• Serve a one- or two-year trial period, during which continued employment is subject to written certification that it advances the public interest.
• Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with Selective Service.
• Submit all application requirements detailed in the announcement's Required Documents section.

Nice To Haves

• At least two years of clinical nutrition experience, with competency in providing Medical Nutrition Therapy.
• Experience collaborating with interdisciplinary healthcare teams.
• Experience facilitating group education, workshops, or wellness programs.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive nutrition assessments using the Nutrition Care Process, including nutrition-focused physical examinations, to establish nutrition diagnoses and assess malnutrition risk or degree.
• Develop and implement Medical Nutrition Therapy, evaluate and monitor its effectiveness and outcomes, and modify plans as needed.
• Calculate nutrient requirements and diet restrictions, and account for food and drug interactions when tailoring diet prescriptions.
• Document Medical Nutrition Therapy in the medical record using the ADIME format and maintain accurate, independent clinical records.
• Identify patients who need nutritional support, recommend an appropriate mode of support, and communicate recommendations to the healthcare team.
• Participate in formal and informal interdisciplinary team meetings.
• Assess educational needs and provide individualized or group nutrition education and counseling tailored to Veterans.
• Use virtual care technology to improve access to care and maintain productivity standards.
• Complete patient encounters and record daily clinical activities using approved systems.
• Support continuous improvement of safe, high-quality Veteran care and lead implementation activities for new initiatives.
• Use data to develop measures, evaluate performance, and initiate corrective actions.
• Comply with The Joint Commission and other accrediting agency standards.
• Collaborate with Food Operations and department leadership to enhance the Veterans' dining experience, support patient satisfaction, and act as a liaison between clinical units and Food Operations.
• Perform other related duties appropriate to the grade and assignment.

Benefits

• Eligibility for the Education Debt Reduction Program, subject to program requirements and approval; awards may be up to $200,000.
• Federal employee benefits package; specific benefits depend on position eligibility.
• Selected applicants may request prior work or military service credit toward annual leave accrual, subject to approval.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level