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Diet Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Diet Assistant

Mountainside, NJ · On-site

$19.47/hr

Diet Assistant Location: Mountainside (MTN) Department Name: Dietary-Management Req #: 0000248077 Status: Hourly Shift: Day Pay Range: $19.47 - $19.47 per hour Pay Transparency: The above reflects ...

Diet Assistant

Elgin, IL · On-site

$19.80 - $29.70/hr

Coordinates all diet office activities as related to the patient trayline and production in an ... For patient lifts of over 35 pounds, or when patient is unable to assist with the lift, patient ...

$19.80 - $29.70/hr

Coordinates all diet office activities as related to the patient trayline and production in an ... For patient lifts of over 35 pounds, or when patient is unable to assist with the lift, patient ...

Diet Assistant

Mountainside, NJ · On-site

$19.47/hr

Diet Assistant Location: Mountainside (MTN) Department Name: Dietary-Management Req #: 0000248077 Status: Hourly Shift: Day Pay Range: $19.47 - $19.47 per hour Pay Transparency: The above reflects ...

Utilizing department software, the Diet Assistant transcribes patient diet orders in a manner that facilitates accurate delivery of nourishment from tray line to patient. In tandem with clinical ...

Utilizing department software, the Diet Assistant transcribes patient diet orders in a manner that facilitates accurate delivery of nourishment from tray line to patient. In tandem with clinical ...

Utilizing department software, the Diet Assistant transcribes patient diet orders in a manner that facilitates accurate delivery of nourishment from tray line to patient. In tandem with clinical ...

Utilizing department software, the Diet Assistant transcribes patient diet orders in a manner that facilitates accurate delivery of nourishment from tray line to patient. In tandem with clinical ...

Utilizing department software, the Diet Assistant transcribes patient diet orders in a manner that facilitates accurate delivery of nourishment from tray line to patient. In tandem with clinical ...

Utilizing department software, the Diet Assistant transcribes patient diet orders in a manner that facilitates accurate delivery of nourishment from tray line to patient. In tandem with clinical ...

Diet Assistant II

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$30.68 - $42.95/hr

Knowledge of various nutritional diet principles, views, and equipment used in the treatment of patients with varying conditions. * Possess written and verbal communications skills to explain ...

Review and update physician diet orders in the hospital's EHR to ensure each patient receives meals matching their prescribed diet * Assist patients with menu selections, print and distribute menus ...

Review and update physician diet orders in the hospital's EHR to ensure each patient receives meals matching their prescribed diet * Assist patients with menu selections, print and distribute menus ...

Review and update physician diet orders in the hospital's EHR to ensure each patient receives meals matching their prescribed diet * Assist patients with menu selections, print and distribute menus ...

Review and update physician diet orders in the hospital's EHR to ensure each patient receives meals matching their prescribed diet * Assist patients with menu selections, print and distribute menus ...

Dallas Regional Medical Center - Mesquite, TX * Review and update physician diet orders in the hospital's EHR to ensure each patient receives meals matching their prescribed diet * Assist patients ...

Review and update physician diet orders in the hospital's EHR to ensure each patient receives meals matching their prescribed diet * Assist patients with menu selections, print and distribute menus ...

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Diet Assistant information

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$19

$31

How much do diet assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for diet assistant in the United States is $19.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $25.72 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Diet Assistant vs Nutritionist?

AspectDiet AssistantNutritionist
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationBachelor's degree in nutrition or dietetics; licensure or certification often required
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, community health programsPrivate practice, healthcare facilities, wellness centers, research
Job FocusAssist with meal planning, patient education, and basic nutritional supportProvide comprehensive nutritional counseling, develop diet plans, conduct assessments

While both roles involve nutrition, Diet Assistants support dietitians and focus on basic tasks, whereas Nutritionists provide in-depth nutritional advice and planning. The roles differ mainly in education requirements and scope of practice, with Nutritionists typically having more advanced credentials and responsibilities.

How do you become a diet assistant?

To become a diet assistant, individuals typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue postsecondary education such as a certificate or associate degree in nutrition, dietetics, or a related field. Relevant skills include knowledge of nutrition, communication, and customer service, and some positions may require certification or training in food safety or health standards.

How does a diet assistant typically collaborate with dietitians and kitchen staff in a healthcare setting?

As a Diet Assistant, you play a key role in bridging communication between dietitians and kitchen staff to ensure patient meal plans are followed accurately. You’ll often review diet orders, help clarify patient dietary needs, and relay any updates or special instructions to the kitchen team. Regular collaboration with dietitians is essential to confirm nutritional requirements and address any changes in patient status, while working with kitchen staff ensures meals are prepared and delivered according to those plans. This teamwork is critical for maintaining high-quality patient care and meeting strict dietary guidelines.

What is a diet assistant?

Diet Assistants, also known as dietary aides, work in healthcare or food service settings to support dietitians and nutritionists in planning, preparing, and serving meals that meet specific dietary requirements. Their responsibilities often include assisting with food preparation, delivering meals to patients or clients, and ensuring that food safety and sanitation standards are followed. Diet Assistants also help monitor food consumption and may assist with record-keeping related to patient diets. This role is essential in hospitals, nursing homes, and other care facilities to ensure individuals receive proper nutrition according to their health needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a diet assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Diet Assistant, you need a basic understanding of nutrition, food safety, and dietary guidelines, typically supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with food preparation equipment, menu planning software, and patient meal tracking systems is often required. Strong attention to detail, good communication, and a customer-service mindset help ensure accurate meal delivery and patient satisfaction. These skills are crucial for maintaining patient health, meeting dietary needs, and supporting the overall healthcare team.
More about Diet Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Diet Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Diet Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Diet jobs? The most popular types of Diet jobs are:
What states have the most Diet Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Diet Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Diet Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,045 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

Diet Assistant

RWJBarnabas Health

Mountainside, NJ • On-site

$19.47/hr

Other

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


RWJBarnabas Health rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 329 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

233rd of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Job Title: Diet Assistant

Location: Mountainside (MTN)

Department Name: Dietary-Management

Req #: 0000248077

Status: Hourly

Shift: Day

Pay Range: $19.47 - $19.47 per hour

Pay Transparency:

The above reflects the anticipated hourly wage range for this position if hired to work in New Jersey.

The compensation offered to the candidate selected for the position will depend on several factors, including the candidate's educational background, skills and professional experience.

Job Overview:

Performs a variety of duties in preparing, distributing and clean up of cold food for patients and staff.

Qualifications:

Required:

High School Diploma or GED equivalent required within one (1) year of hire.

Preferred:

  • Previous food service experience preferred
  • Ability to speak, read and write English as it relates to the competent daily preparation of the count sheet, reading menus for baby formulas 
  • Ability to do simple mathematics as it relates to the above
  •  Ability to work a variety of schedules

Certifications and Licenses Required:

  • ServSafe

Scheduling Requirements:

  • Day shift, 7:00am-3:30pm (times may vary)
  • Flexibility throughout the week/weekends
  • Per Diem, as needed

Essential Functions:

  • Prepares and handles food in accordance with sanitary and HACCP regulations, in sufficient quantities and on time to meet schedules
  • Performs all food service duties as they relate to the patient's meal service including trayline setup, cold food assembly, tray delivery, pickup cleaning, and sanitation
  • Prepares special baby formulas and other nourishments such as tube feedings according to direction by Dietician or Dietetic Technician
  • Responsible for patient menus, including distribution, assisting patients filling them out, check for accuracy according to cardex, and preparing the count sheet for the next day
  • Follows standardized recipes in preparation of cold food for patients and staff under strict sanitary guidelines paying attention to portion control
  • Heads menus for patient use, ensuring proper menu for each patient according to diet order in cardex. Cleans equipment and general work area and maintains a sanitary and orderly work area
  • Serves hot food to staff in cafeteria. Follows pre-established par levels of food needed to meet cafeteria meal requirements
  • Estimates time required to prepare food in order to meet cafeteria menu requirements and other similar deadlines
  • Performs other duties as assigned 

Other Duties:

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Choosing RWJBarnabas Health!

RWJBarnabas Health is the premier health care destination providing patient-centered, high-quality academic medicine in a compassionate and equitable manner, while delivering a best-in-class work experience to every member of the team.  We honor and appreciate the privilege of creating and sustaining healthier communities, one person and one community at a time.  As the leading academic health system in New Jersey, we advance innovative strategies in high-quality patient care, education, and research to address both the clinical and social determinants of health. 

RWJBarnabas Health aims to truly make a unique impact in local communities throughout New Jersey. From vastly improving the health of local residents to creating educational and career opportunities, this combination greatly benefits the state. We understand the growing and evolving needs of residents in New Jersey—whether that be enhancing the coordination for treating complex health conditions or improving community health through local programs and education.

Equal Opportunity Employer


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About RWJBarnabas Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

RWJBarnabas Health is New Jersey’s largest integrated health care delivery system, providing treatment and services to more than three million patients each year. Throughout RWJBarnabas Health, our dedicated physicians, nurses, and health professionals are committed to providing the highest quality of patient care and health education to the community and region. We aim to truly make a unique impact in local communities throughout New Jersey. From vastly improving the health of local residents to creating educational and career opportunities, this combination greatly benefits the state. We understand the growing and evolving needs of residents in New Jersey - whether that be enhancing the coordination for treating complex health conditions or improving community health through local programs and education.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Orange, NJ, US

Year founded

2015