Dietitian (Clinical)

The Clinical Dietitian provides comprehensive nutrition assessment, intervention, and care for patients across various acuity levels, progressing from entry-level to full performance. This role emphasizes patient-centered care, evidence-based practice, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

• *Key Responsibilities (Vary by Grade Level):**
• Conduct nutrition assessments using the Nutrition Care Process (NCP).
• Apply evidence-based nutrition practice guidelines to develop patient-centered goals and improve outcomes.
• Interpret research and integrate whole health principles into care plans.
• Utilize virtual care technology to enhance patient access.
• Maintain accurate records of clinical activities and patient encounters.
• Ensure compliance with Joint Commission (TJC) and other accrediting standards.
• Collaborate with Food Service teams to enhance the Veteran's dining experience and satisfaction.
• Collect and analyze data for performance improvement initiatives (GS-9/11).
• Lead implementation of new initiatives and collaborate with stakeholders (GS-11).
• *Basic Requirements:**
• **Citizenship:** United States Citizen.
• **English Language Proficiency:** Proficient in spoken and written English.
• **Credential:** Hold the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credential from the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).

* **Temporary Appointment Exception:** Non-credentialed Dietitians may receive a temporary appointment (max 1 year, GS-7/GS-9) if they possess a Bachelor's or higher degree from a U.S. regionally accredited institution, completed an ACEND® accredited supervised practice program, and are eligible to take the CDR registration exam. Must obtain RDN credential for promotion/conversion.

• *Experience & Education by Grade Level:**
• **GS-7 (Entry-Level):** None beyond basic requirements. Works under direct supervision, performing increasingly complex tasks.
• **GS-9:**

* **Experience:** At least one year equivalent to the GS-7 grade level; or * **Education:** Master's degree from a regionally accredited university or college. * **Required Skills:** Knowledge of accrediting/regulatory requirements, virtual technology for nutrition care, ability to deliver patient care (NCP), apply evidence-based practices, develop patient-centered goals, collect data for performance improvement, and collaborate with stakeholders.

• **GS-11 (Full Performance):**

* **Experience:** At least one year as an RDN equivalent to the GS-9 grade level. * **Required Skills:** Strong skill in delivering patient care (NCP), interpreting research for evidence-based practice, developing patient-centered goals, analyzing data for performance improvement, collaborating with stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with authorities.

• *Preferred Experience:** Two to three years of work experience as a Registered Dietitian (RD) in an acute care setting.
• *Note:** The full performance level for this vacancy is GS-11. Applicants may be selected at grades GS-7, GS-9, or GS-11 based on qualifications. For more information, refer to VA Qualification Standards.