... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
Millikin Nursing Scholarship - Patient Care Technician
$16.77 - $25.99/hr
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
Millikin Nursing Scholarship - Patient Care Technician
$16.77 - $25.99/hr
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
... care aide, etc.) * Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes * Minimum of two (2) ... Records percentage of diet intake. * Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake.
Diet Aide information
See Decatur, IL salary details
$8.86 - $9.79
1% of jobs
$9.79 - $10.73
4% of jobs
$10.73 - $11.66
7% of jobs
$11.66 - $12.59
10% of jobs
$12.79 is the 25th percentile. Wages below this are outliers.
$12.59 - $13.52
13% of jobs
The median wage is $14.25 / hr.
$13.52 - $14.46
19% of jobs
$14.46 - $15.39
16% of jobs
$15.71 is the 75th percentile. Wages above this are outliers.
$15.39 - $16.32
14% of jobs
$16.32 - $17.25
9% of jobs
$17.25 - $18.19
5% of jobs
$18.19 - $19.12
2% of jobs
$8
$14
$19
How much do diet aide jobs pay per hour?
As of Jun 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for diet aide in Decatur, IL is $14.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.60 and $15.87 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Diet Aide, and why are they important?
To thrive as a Diet Aide, you need a basic understanding of nutrition, food safety, and meal preparation, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with dietary software, tray assembly systems, and sanitation procedures is typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and teamwork are soft skills that help ensure meals meet individual dietary needs. These skills are essential for providing safe, accurate, and supportive meal services in healthcare or institutional settings.
What jobs make $3,000 a month without a degree?
For a Diet Aide or similar entry-level roles, earning $3,000 a month typically requires working full-time, often with overtime or in high-demand settings. Other jobs that can reach this income level without a degree include commercial truck driving, sales positions, or skilled trades like HVAC or plumbing, which may require certifications or on-the-job training. These roles often involve physical work, specialized skills, or flexible schedules to achieve higher earnings.
What are some common challenges a Diet Aide might face in a healthcare setting?
Diet Aides often work in fast-paced healthcare environments where meeting strict dietary requirements and accommodating patients' individual needs can be challenging. They must pay close attention to detail to avoid errors when preparing and delivering meals, especially for patients with allergies or specific medical diets. Additionally, they often collaborate with dietitians, nursing staff, and kitchen teams, requiring strong communication skills to ensure patient safety and satisfaction. Adapting quickly to last-minute menu changes or special requests is also a frequent part of the job.
What is the difference between Diet Aide vs Nutrition Assistant?
| Aspect | Diet Aide | Nutrition Assistant |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | None required or basic food service certifications | Often similar, may require food safety or nutrition-related certifications |
| Work Environment | Hospitals, nursing homes, healthcare facilities | Healthcare settings, clinics, hospitals |
| Job Responsibilities | Assisting with meal prep, serving, cleaning, basic patient support | Supporting dietitians, preparing nutritional plans, assisting with patient education |
Both roles typically work in healthcare environments and may require similar certifications. However, Nutrition Assistants often have more responsibilities related to nutritional planning and supporting dietitians, whereas Diet Aides focus more on meal service and basic patient support. Understanding these differences can help you choose the right career path in the healthcare nutrition field.
What are Diet Aides?
Diet Aides are healthcare support professionals who assist in the preparation and delivery of meals to patients, residents, or clients in hospitals, nursing homes, or other care facilities. They work under the supervision of dietitians or nutritionists to ensure that individuals receive meals tailored to their dietary needs and restrictions. Their duties often include preparing food trays, delivering meals, cleaning kitchen areas, and sometimes assisting with menu selections. Diet Aides play a crucial role in maintaining food safety and supporting the nutritional well-being of those in their care.
What job categories do people searching Diet Aide jobs in Decatur, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Diet Aide jobs in Decatur, IL are:
What cities near Decatur, IL are hiring for Diet Aide jobs? Cities near Decatur, IL with the most Diet Aide job openings:
$25.99/hr
Full-time
Medical, Vision, PTO
Posted 10 days ago
Memorial Health rating
6.8
Based on 170 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz
485th of 870 rated healthcare providers
Job description
Min
USD $16.77/Hr.
Max
USD $25.99/Hr.
Overview
*Millikin Nursing Scholarship Program- must be currently enrolled in Millikin's nursing program*
Position Summary:
Under supervision of the registered nurse, performs a variety of tasks and services to assist in the provision of care and comfort for patients; provides care appropriate to the age of the patients served; reports and records observations; contributes to the efficient functioning of the unit; all duties are performed in accordance with established, policies, procedures, standards and guidelines. Embodies the Memorial Health System Performance Excellence Standards of Safety, Courtesy, Quality, and Efficiency that support our mission, vision and values.
Highlights & Benefits:
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Employee Assistance Program and Colleague Wellness
Benefits - Memorial HR
Qualifications
Education:
High school diploma or GED preferred.
One of the following required:
Licensure/Certification/Registry:
CPR certification required, or obtained during nursing team onboarding process.
Other Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
Annual Credentialing:
Attends all Joint Commission, OSHA and hospital/nurse manager mandated inservices. Submits supporting documentation to nurse manager in conjunction with annual performance appraisal. Demonstrates clinical competence.
Responsibilities
Principal Duties & Responsibilities:
Performs and documents nursing care measures to meet the physical needs of patients as directed by the registered nurse. Illustrative tasks and expectations include, but are not limited to, the following:
Activity:
Nutrition:
Elimination:
Other related needs:
Performs and documents monitoring procedures; observes and reports the patient response. Illustrative tasks and expectations include, but are not limited to, the following:
Performs therapeutic measures/procedure, observes and reports changes, deviations from normal. Illustrative tasks and expectations include, but are not limited to, the following:
Maintains safety and security of patient/family/self/others, observing safety precautions and promoting a sense of security and well being. Illustrative tasks and expectations include but are not limited to the following:
Embodies the Memorial Health System Performance Excellence Standards of Safety, Courtesy, Quality, and Efficiency that support our mission, vision and values:
Promotes efficient and effective functioning of the unit/hospital. Illustrative tasks and expectations include but are not limited to, the following:
Performs additional unit specific tasks/care elements for which they have received specific instruction and demonstrated competence.
Performs other related work as required or requested.
USD $16.77/Hr.
Max
USD $25.99/Hr.
Overview
*Millikin Nursing Scholarship Program- must be currently enrolled in Millikin's nursing program*
Position Summary:
Under supervision of the registered nurse, performs a variety of tasks and services to assist in the provision of care and comfort for patients; provides care appropriate to the age of the patients served; reports and records observations; contributes to the efficient functioning of the unit; all duties are performed in accordance with established, policies, procedures, standards and guidelines. Embodies the Memorial Health System Performance Excellence Standards of Safety, Courtesy, Quality, and Efficiency that support our mission, vision and values.
Highlights & Benefits:
Paid Time Off (PTO)
Employee Assistance Program and Colleague Wellness
Benefits - Memorial HR
Qualifications
Education:
High school diploma or GED preferred.
One of the following required:
- Relevant healthcare program completion (e.g. certified nursing assistant, emergency medical technician-basic, medical assistant, personal care aide, etc.)
- Completion or active enrollment in core nursing classes
- Minimum of two (2) years of relevant work experience performing the essential responsibilities of the patient care technician role.
Licensure/Certification/Registry:
CPR certification required, or obtained during nursing team onboarding process.
Other Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:
- Basic computer data entry skills, including the ability to enter, store and retrieve information.
- Possesses updated knowledge and competency in using equipment related to job duties (i.e., gait belt, mobility devices, protection/safety equipment, etc.)
- Demonstrates effective communication skills with the ability to relay information to/from patients, their families, and members of the care team.
Annual Credentialing:
Attends all Joint Commission, OSHA and hospital/nurse manager mandated inservices. Submits supporting documentation to nurse manager in conjunction with annual performance appraisal. Demonstrates clinical competence.
Responsibilities
Principal Duties & Responsibilities:
Performs and documents nursing care measures to meet the physical needs of patients as directed by the registered nurse. Illustrative tasks and expectations include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Provides hygiene and comfort measures, assuring privacy and preventing undue exposure.
- Provides or assists patient with bathing, oral hygiene, hair care, nail care, shaving, etc.
- Assures that linens are dry, wrinkle free and that patient is comfortable.
- Provides handwashing opportunity before and after meals, toileting, etc.
Activity:
- Assists with patient's activities including ambulation, chair, dangling and repositioning; uses proper body mechanics, positioning techniques, and assistive devices.
Nutrition:
- Serves and collects food trays and nourishments. Records percentage of diet intake.
- Feeds or assists patients as necessary. Records intake. Reports deviations from normal.
- Clears IV and Tube Feeding Pumps at end of each shift and documents appropriately.
Elimination:
- Provides bed pan/urinal. Performs perineal care.
- Performs bladder catheter care and discontinues bladder catheter as directed.
- Performs ostomy care (ileostomy, colostomy, urostomy) including application of appropriate appliances.
- Records output. Reports deviations from normal.
Other related needs:
- Assists with post-mortem care.
- Assists with admission, transfer and discharge of patients.
- Promptly responds to patient call light or requests (usually in less than ten minutes).
Performs and documents monitoring procedures; observes and reports the patient response. Illustrative tasks and expectations include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Obtains vital signs (B/P and TPR).
- Obtains weight in kg (standing, chair or bed scale) and reports deviation from previous weight.
- Empties drainage collection devices.
- Performs blood glucose monitoring.
- Observes and reports unusual conditions and/or change in patient behavior or appearance.
Performs therapeutic measures/procedure, observes and reports changes, deviations from normal. Illustrative tasks and expectations include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Application of heat; i.e., K-pad.
- Application of cold; i.e., ice bags, sponge baths.
- Therapeutic baths, i.e., Sitz, Aveeno.
- Obtains routine non-sterile specimens.
- Assists with patient preparation for surgical, therapeutic and/or diagnostic procedures.
- Oxygen therapy (sets up/maintains/discontinues) as directed.
- Applies nonsterile dressing as directed.
- Discontinues peripheral IV as directed.
- Performs oral pharyngeal suctioning.
- Preps skin and applies telemetry patches.
- Records all interventions; observes and reports the patient response, changes, and/or deviations from normal parameters.
Maintains safety and security of patient/family/self/others, observing safety precautions and promoting a sense of security and well being. Illustrative tasks and expectations include but are not limited to the following:
- Conducts purposeful hourly rounding as a team member, inquiring of the four P's (Pain, Potty, Possessions and Positioning).
- Follows standard precautions. Always washes hands between patients.
- Reports equipment malfunctions.
- Assists in keeping patient rooms/corridors free of clutter. Cleans fluid spills.
- Uses proper body mechanics in moving, transferring and transporting patients.
- Positions side rails appropriate to the patient's condition.
- Applies and maintains restraining devices as directed.
- Interacts with patients/visitors/others in a courteous and respectful manner.
- Fully explains procedures to patients/families prior to performing.
- Assures patient privacy/rights/confidentiality.
- Recognizes and reports patient concerns; offers constructive solutions.
Embodies the Memorial Health System Performance Excellence Standards of Safety, Courtesy, Quality, and Efficiency that support our mission, vision and values:
- SAFETY: Prevent Harm - I put safety first in everything I do. I take action to ensure the safety of others.
- COURTESY: Serve Others - I treat others with dignity and respect. I project a professional image and positive attitude.
- QUALITY: Improve Outcomes - I continually advance my knowledge, skills and performance. I work with others to achieve superior results.
- EFFICIENCY: Reduce Waste - I use time and resources wisely. I prevent defects and delays.
Promotes efficient and effective functioning of the unit/hospital. Illustrative tasks and expectations include but are not limited to, the following:
- Skilled in computer messaging, obtaining results.
- Completes assigned aspects of unit inventory management.
- Complies with established policies, procedures, standards and guidelines.
- Uses designated lines of communication and authority.
- Supports efforts to reduce costs.
- Consistently utilizes time and resources effectively and efficiently.
- Maintains cleanliness of unit, service area and equipment.
- Cooperates with all members of the healthcare team.
- Enthusiastically supports and participates in planned changes.
- Accepts responsibility for accurate and timely completion of tasks as assigned.
- Adheres to MHS Behavioral Standards.
- Handles floor stock medications or medications delivered from Pharmacy directly or through the pneumatic tube system. Relocate these medications, in original containers, to designated secure storage locations or deliver directly to appropriate licensed staff.
Performs additional unit specific tasks/care elements for which they have received specific instruction and demonstrated competence.
Performs other related work as required or requested.
What Memorial Health employees say
Pay
Benefits
Hours and flexibility
Workplace
Get the full story on Breakroom
About Memorial Health
Sourced by ZipRecruiter
Industry
Health care and social assistance and hospitals
Company size
5,001 - 10,000 Employees
Headquarters location
Springfield, IL, US