- Dietitians and nutritionists are primarily employed by hospitals or other health care organizations, although fitness facilities and similar organizations also hire dietitians to develop menus.
- Dietitians look at patients’ medical diagnoses and laboratory levels and create diets for patients to follow while at the hospital or under medical care.
- Nutritionists perform similar work.
- This is a mid-level position.
- Dietitians and nutritionists must have bachelor’s degrees and valid licenses for the state in which they work.
- Most employers seek experienced dietitians.
- Although not required, the Commission on Dietetic Registration of the American Dietetic Association awards the Registered Dietitian credential to those who pass an exam after completing academic course work and a supervised internship.
- Dietitians and nutritionists are expected to have good communication and organizational skills.
- A nutritionist or dietitian does not have direct reports.
- Experienced dietitians may become self-employed or advance to management positions, such as assistant director, associate director, or director of a dietetic department.
