What is a Nutrition Services Worker Job?
Nutrition Services Workers, also known as Dietary Assistants or Food Service Workers, are professionals who work in healthcare facilities, schools, and other institutions to prepare and serve meals to patients, students, and residents. They work under the supervision of a licensed dietitian or nutritionist to ensure that meals meet the nutritional needs of those they serve.
What Usually Do In This Position?
Nutrition Services Workers perform a variety of tasks related to food preparation and service. They may plan menus, prepare food, and serve meals to patients or residents in hospitals, long-term care facilities, and nursing homes. In schools and universities, they may prepare and serve meals to students and staff. They may also be responsible for cleaning and sanitizing kitchen equipment and facilities, as well as ordering and stocking supplies.
Top 5 Skills for Position:
- Food preparation and cooking skills
- Knowledge of nutrition and dietary guidelines
- Attention to detail and ability to follow recipes and menus
- Customer service and communication skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and multitask
How to Become a Nutrition Services Worker?
To become a Nutrition Services Worker, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Some employers may also require a food handler's certification or a ServSafe certification. On-the-job training is common, and some employers may offer formal training programs. In some cases, a post-secondary certificate or degree in nutrition or food service may be preferred.
Average Salary:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for Food Preparation and Serving Workers, including Nutrition Services Workers, was $23,730 as of May 2020. However, salaries can vary depending on the industry, location, and level of experience.
Roles and Types:
Nutrition Services Workers can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, long-term care facilities, nursing homes, schools, and universities. They may also work for private companies that provide food services to these institutions. In addition to preparing and serving meals, some Nutrition Services Workers may also be responsible for menu planning, food ordering, and inventory management.
Locations with the Most Popular Jobs in USA:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, California, Texas, and Florida are the states with the highest employment levels for Food Preparation and Serving Workers, including Nutrition Services Workers. Other states with high employment levels include New York, Pennsylvania, and Ohio.
What are the Typical Tools?
Nutrition Services Workers typically use a variety of kitchen tools and equipment, including knives, food processors, ovens, and stovetops. They may also use computer software to order supplies and track inventory.
In Conclusion:
Nutrition Services Workers play an important role in ensuring that patients, residents, and students receive nutritious meals. They must have strong food preparation and cooking skills, as well as knowledge of nutrition and dietary guidelines. While a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required, some employers may prefer candidates with post-secondary education in nutrition or food service. Salaries can vary depending on the industry, location, and level of experience, but job opportunities are available in a variety of settings across the United States.