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Associate Nutritionist Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Nutritionist Associate

Staunton, VA · On-site

$37K - $40K/yr

Nutritionist Associate Apply now Job no: 5095464 Work type: Full-Time (Salaried) Location: Staunton, Virginia Categories: Administrative Services Title: Nutritionist Associate State Role Title:

Nutritionist Associate

Staunton, VA · On-site

$37K - $40K/yr

Nutritionist Associate Apply now Job no: 5100796 Work type: Full-Time (Salaried) Location: Staunton, Virginia Categories: Administrative Services Title: Nutritionist Associate State Role Title:

Nutritionist Associate

Portsmouth, VA · On-site

$38K - $42K/yr

Nutritionist Associate State Role Title: Direct Service Associate II Hiring Range: $38,000-$42,808 Pay Band: 2 Agency: Virginia Department of Health Location: PORTSMOUTH -TW Agency Website:

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Associate Nutritionist information

See Virginia salary details

$32.2K

$53.7K

$89.2K

How much do associate nutritionist jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for associate nutritionist in Virginia is $53,673.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $41,600.00 and $60,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an associate nutritionist?

Associate nutritionists are professionals who typically have a degree in nutrition or a related field and provide support in promoting healthy eating and nutrition education. They often work under the supervision of registered dietitians or senior nutritionists, assisting with meal planning, community nutrition programs, and client education. Associate nutritionists may work in healthcare settings, schools, public health organizations, or private practices. Their role is focused on helping individuals and groups make informed food choices and maintain a balanced diet.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an associate nutritionist?

To thrive as an Associate Nutritionist, you need a solid understanding of nutrition science, diet planning, and public health principles, often demonstrated by a relevant bachelor's degree. Familiarity with nutrient analysis software, dietary assessment tools, and relevant certifications (such as Registered Dietitian Nutritionist eligibility) is important. Strong communication, empathy, and the ability to educate and motivate clients are essential soft skills. These qualifications ensure evidence-based guidance, accurate assessments, and effective client support for promoting optimal health outcomes.

What are some common challenges faced by associate nutritionists when working with diverse client populations?

Associate Nutritionists often encounter a variety of client backgrounds, each with unique dietary needs, cultural preferences, and health concerns. Navigating language barriers, addressing food accessibility issues, and tailoring recommendations to respect cultural norms can be challenging. Building rapport and trust is essential, as is staying adaptable and informed about different nutritional practices. Collaborating closely with other healthcare professionals, such as dietitians and physicians, can help in providing comprehensive and individualized care.

What is the difference between Associate Nutritionist vs Registered Dietitian?

AspectAssociate NutritionistRegistered Dietitian
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in nutrition or related field; may need certification or licensure depending on stateRequires a bachelor's degree, completion of supervised practice, and passing the RD exam
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, community health, wellness programsHospitals, healthcare facilities, private practice, public health
Industry UsageEntry to mid-level roles in nutrition and healthLicensed professionals providing medical nutrition therapy

The main difference between an Associate Nutritionist and a Registered Dietitian lies in credentials and scope of practice. Registered Dietitians have completed specific supervised training and passed a national exam, allowing them to provide medical nutrition therapy. Associate Nutritionists often hold similar educational backgrounds but may not have the full licensure or certification, limiting their scope in clinical settings. Both roles work in health and wellness environments, but RDs typically have more advanced responsibilities and recognition in the healthcare industry.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nutritionist jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Nutritionist jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Associate Nutritionist jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Associate Nutritionist job openings:

Infographic showing various Associate Nutritionist job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,673 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

$37K - $40K/yr

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Re-posted 29 days ago


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Job description

Nutritionist Associate

Title: Nutritionist Associate

State Role Title: Direct Service Associate II

Hiring Range: $37,751 - $40,000

Pay Band: 2

Agency: Virginia Department of Health

Location: Cent Shen-August/Staunton -TW

Job Duties

The Nutritionist Associate independently determines nutrition eligibility of applicants/clients within program guidelines and independently prescribes appropriate food packages. Assesses nutritional status/eligibility for program services by Nutrition Assessment using VENA technique process/food frequency history, assessing growth patterns, weight patterns, biochemical values and medical history. Independently sets dietary goals based on the assessment. Provides patient counseling specific to the individual's nutritional needs. Makes referrals for high-risk counseling with Nutritionist when appropriate. This is a restricted position, which is solely funded by the WIC program for a year's period ending September 30, 2026. The availability of funding is scheduled for review annually and periodically thereafter. Continued employment is contingent on the continued availability of funds.

Minimum Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of nutrition and nutritional standards • Ability to conduct interviews and collect information • Ability to interpret, document, calculate, and compile routine data • Experience providing patient education and/or communicating information to individuals • Good communication skills, verbally and in writing, to interact with a variety of patients, peers, and supervisors • Ability to work effectively individually and as a team member • Experience multi-tasking and prioritizing workloads • Skills using computer systems

Additional Considerations

• Training, job experience, or coursework in Nutrition, Dietetics, food services, or a related area preferred • Bilingual in Spanish and English preferred • Experience obtaining blood samples/finger sticks, and taking heights and weights of individuals

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or résumé is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

VDH accepts only on-line applications. Faxed, mailed, or e-mailed applications will not be considered. Applications are accepted until 11:55 p.m. on the job closing date. Applications and/or resumes should include relevant work history which indicates your qualifications for this position. Supplemental questions are encouraged to be answered in a comprehensive manner and reference any pertinent knowledge, skills, and abilities as well as any previous experience that relates to the position. Employment is contingent upon satisfactory results of a state and federal criminal history background check and the Department of Social Service's Child Abuse and Neglect Central Registry check, U.S. HHSIG Exclusion List check, employment reference check and E-Verify. Other financial, credit, driving, background checks or completion of Statement of Economic Interests may be required for certain positions.

In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Each agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia is dedicated to recruiting, supporting, and maintaining a competent and diverse work force. Equal Opportunity Employer


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