Nutrition Specialist

Tohono O'odham Nation

12h

About The Position

Under general supervision, educates, plans, and coordinates activities on nutrition and awareness to prevent disease and obesity. Provides counseling and follow-up with eligible clients. The work is normally reviewed upon completion, with occasional spot checks while in process, to ensure accuracy, timeliness and conformance to established standards; major work tasks are covered by instructions or procedures and unusual situations are referred to a supervisor.

Requirements

Knowledge of the Tohono O'odham culture, customs, and traditions.
Knowledge of applicable federal, state, tribal laws, regulations and requirements.
Knowledge of proper diets for diabetics, gluten-free or wheat-free diets.
Knowledge of USDA food guidelines and requirements.
Knowledge of nutritional principles, diet, food selection, and economics.
Knowledge of safe and sanitary food preparation and storage.
Knowledge of computers and computer software, internet and computer data entry.
Knowledge in Stars Manual, Breastfeeding Kardex Manual and breast pump equipment.
Skill in interacting with clients to effectively educate them on nutrition.
Skill in developing culturally appropriate teaching materials.
Skill in public speaking and communication methods and techniques.
Skill in operating a variety of office equipment, including personal computers, telephone, and calculators.
Skill in providing superior customer service for both internal and external customers.
Skill in operating various word-processing, spreadsheets, and database software programs.
Skill in analyzing problems, projecting consequences, identifying solutions, and implementing recommendations.
Ability to communicate efficiently and effectively both verbally and in writing.
Ability to establish and maintain positive and effective working relationships with other employees and the general public.
Ability to motivate others.
Ability to maintain privileged confidential information.
Ability to work independently and meet strict time lines.
Ability to work extended hours and various work schedules.
Ability to create and present effective speeches and presentations.
Ability to exercise independent judgement.
Ability to travel within the interior/exterior boundaries of the Tohono O'odham Nation.
Associate's Degree in Health Education, Nutrition or closely related field and two years' work experience in a nutrition counseling or a health educator field; or an equivalent combination of training, education, and work experience which demonstrates the ability to perform the duties of this position.
Must possess a current Food Handler's card.
Must possess certifications in Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and First Aid.
Must possess Community Nutrition Worker Certification.
Must possess Breastfeeding Counselor Certification.
Upon recommendation for hire, a criminal background and National FBI check is required to determine suitability for hire, including a 39-month Motor Vehicle Record.
May require possessing and maintaining a valid driver's license, (no DUIs or major traffic citations within the last three years).
If required, must meet the Tohono O'odham Nation tribal employer's insurance requirements to receive a driver's permit to operate program vehicles.
Based on the department's needs, incumbents may be required to demonstrate fluency in both the Tohono O'odham Language and English as a condition of employment.

Responsibilities

Visits clinics or makes home visits to provide individual counseling to teach principles of food and nutrition; conducts blood draws and evaluates hemoglobin levels for individuals.
Provides nutritional advice to individuals who have special dietary requirements; works closely with breastfeeding counselor to provide moms with tools and helpful hints or techniques to promote breastfeeding.
Conducts nutrition education, cooking procedures, food safety, food selections, and menu planning.
Ensures that clients are instructed in the storing methods; introduces a variety of recipes to clients.
Orients clients; takes weight and measurement; obtains dietary histories of individuals to plan individualized nutrition programs.
Determines client eligibility and certifies/re-certifies clients as needed.
Assists in scheduling with health service providers.
Assists in planning, outreach and participates in community health fairs, activities, and community presentations; sets up and takes down tables, chairs and computer stations and conducts food preparation demonstrations.
Maintains accurate documentation; writes narrative and statistical reports on activities; enters data for each client; documents client charts and keeps accurate records.
Makes referrals to other agencies as needed.
Travels to remote areas and house to house to provide services to individuals.
Maintains professional knowledge by conducting research, attending seminars, educational workshops, classes and conferences; conferring with representatives of contracting agencies and related organizations.
Performs other job related duties as assigned and contributes to a team effort.