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Dietary Associate Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Helia Healthcare

DIETARY ASSOCIATE - COOK

Hillsboro, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

The overall purpose of the Culinary Associate position is to prepare meals and snacks for residents ... Demonstrate responsibility for the food service operation in the absence of the Dietary Manager.

Guthrie

Dietary Associate - Dietary - Full Time

Towanda, PA · On-site

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

To be an active member of the dietary team to provide the best dietary service for patients, employees and staff. Education, License & Cert: Must have grammar school education, should be able to read ...

Helia Healthcare

DIETARY ASSOCIATE - COOK

Aviston, IL · On-site

$18/hr

The overall purpose of the Culinary Associate position is to prepare meals and snacks for residents ... Demonstrate responsibility for the food service operation in the absence of the Dietary Manager.

Helia Healthcare

DIETARY ASSOCIATE - COOK

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$17 - $20/hr

The overall purpose of the Culinary Associate position is to prepare meals and snacks for residents ... Demonstrate responsibility for the food service operation in the absence of the Dietary Manager.

Heritage Valley Sewickley

Dietary Associate

Beaver, PA · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

Department: Nutrition Services Work Hours: Varying days and evenings shifts, weekends and holidays. Performs duties within the department including assembly of patient meals, working all tray line ...

Valley Medical Facilities

Dietary Associate

Beaver, PA · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

Department: Nutrition Services Work Hours: Varying days and evenings shifts, weekends and holidays. Performs duties within the department including assembly of patient meals, working all tray line ...

Heritage Valley Sewickley

Dietary Associate

Beaver, PA · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

Department: Nutrition Services Work Hours: Varying days and evenings shifts, weekends and holidays. Performs duties within the department including assembly of patient meals, working all tray line ...

Guthrie

Dietary Associate - Cafeteria - Part Time

Sayre, PA · On-site

$14.25 - $18/hr

To be an active member of the dietary team to provide the best dietary service for patients, employees and staff. Education, License & Cert: Must have grammar school education, should be able to read ...

Heritage Valley Health

Dietary Associate

Beaver, PA · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

Nutrition Services Position Performs duties within the department including assembly of patient meals, working all tray line stations, works in the dish room, transporting patient carts, and performs ...

Guthrie

Dietary Associate - Cafeteria - Part Time

Sayre, PA · On-site

$14.75 - $19.50/hr

To be an active member of the dietary team to provide the best dietary service for patients, employees and staff. Education, License & Cert: Must have grammar school education, should be able to read ...

Wellspring of Milwaukee

Dietary Aide

Milwaukee, WI

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

May be subject to the handling of and exposure to hazardous chemicals Experienced Dietary Associate come check out our new higher wage rates! Seeking part-time evenings and weekends. 4 pm - 8 pm.

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How much do dietary associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for dietary associate in the United States is $15.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $17.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dietary associate?

Dietary Associates are healthcare support professionals who assist in preparing, serving, and delivering meals to patients, residents, or clients in hospitals, nursing homes, or other care facilities. They ensure that meals meet specific dietary requirements and follow sanitation and safety guidelines. Their duties often include taking meal orders, preparing food trays, cleaning kitchen areas, and working closely with dietitians and food service managers. By supporting nutrition services, Dietary Associates play an important role in the overall well-being and recovery of patients.

What are some common challenges dietary associates face when working with patients who have special dietary needs?

Dietary Associates often encounter challenges when preparing meals for patients with specific dietary restrictions, such as allergies, chronic illnesses, or cultural preferences. Ensuring that each meal adheres strictly to the prescribed guidelines while still being appetizing and nutritionally balanced can be demanding, especially in a busy healthcare setting. Clear communication with dietitians, nursing staff, and sometimes directly with patients is essential to avoid errors and maintain patient safety. Staying organized and detail-oriented helps Dietary Associates manage these complexities effectively.

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

To thrive as a Dietary Associate, you need knowledge of nutrition and food safety, basic food preparation skills, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with dietary management software, kitchen equipment, and food handling certifications like ServSafe are typically required. Attention to detail, strong communication, and teamwork are essential soft skills in this role. These skills ensure safe, accurate meal preparation and delivery, directly impacting patient or resident health and satisfaction.

What is the difference between Dietary Associate vs Dietary Aide?

AspectDietary AssociateDietary Aide
CertificationsFood Handlers Permit, CPR (if required)Food Handlers Permit, CPR (if required)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, nursing homes, healthcare facilitiesHospitals, nursing homes, healthcare facilities
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with meal prep, serving, cleaning, and patient dietary needsAssisting with meal delivery, cleaning, and basic food service tasks

Both roles involve supporting food service in healthcare settings, often requiring similar certifications. The main difference is that Dietary Associates typically have more responsibilities related to meal preparation and patient interaction, while Dietary Aides focus more on meal delivery and basic support tasks. Both positions are essential for patient nutrition and are used interchangeably in many healthcare facilities.

What cities are hiring for Dietary Associate jobs?

Cities with the most Dietary Associate job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Dietary jobs?

The most popular types of Dietary jobs are:

What states have the most Dietary Associate jobs?

States with the most job openings for Dietary Associate jobs include:

Dietary Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dietary Associate job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,807 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

DIETARY ASSOCIATE - COOK

PALLADIAN EMPLOYEE SERVICES LLC

Saint Louis, MO • On-site

$16.50 - $18/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Description

**Experience pays off-literally. Tell us about your background and maximize your earning potential**

The overall purpose of the Culinary Associate position is to prepare meals and snacks for residents within guidelines of the facility. 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Performs duties and responsibilities with assigned functional area within a nursing home facility which may include, but are not limited to, any combination of the following tasks:

  • Prepare food according to the menu for the day, so that residents will receive the meals they are expecting, and they will be well-balanced and healthy for the residents. 
  • Ensure all meals are prepared following recipes and guidelines established by the Culinary Services Director. 
  • Follow all requests for special diets to assure good resident health. 
  • Taste, smell, and observe food to ensure conformance with recipes and appearance standards. Measure satisfaction levels among residents by walk-thru and conversations with residents on meal satisfaction. 
  • Place food servings on plates using standard measuring ladles, scoops, spoons, etc. assuring residents receive sufficient portions. 
  • Provide residents "seconds" as needed to satiate their appetites. 
  • Prepare snacks for residents according to snack schedule and menu in order assuring residents are getting adequate nutrition and hydration. 
  • Properly clean all equipment and work areas, including walls and floors, to provide a sanitary kitchen environment. 
  • Assure all open food in refrigerators and freezers are covered and dated and that outdated food is discarded promptly. 
  • Demonstrate responsibility for the food service operation in the absence of the Dietary Manager.
  • Wash and sanitize dishes according to foodservice standards. Prepare sanitation sink according to directions and monitors and documents sanitizing solution levels. 
  • Operate the dishwashing process in an organized fashion. 
  • After food is served, keep dirty dishes running through the dish machine until all dishes are clean and ready for the next meal. 
  • Assure all freezers and refrigerators are maintained at proper temperatures and the temperatures are documented. 
  • Present a clean and neat appearance which includes but is not limited to wearing aprons, hair nets, and other protective clothing as necessary. 
  • Collect and place garbage and trash in designated containers. 
  • Is fully knowledgeable of the fire evacuation and disaster policy of the community and participates as assigned in fire and disaster drills. 
  • Maintain confidentiality of all pertinent personal or health information concerning residents and staff.

Requirements

The Culinary Associate must have the following: 

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • To be qualified for this position you must maintain a current Food Services Sanitation certificate and have one (1) year job related experience including food preparation, full-line menu items and therapeutic diets. 
  • A culinary apprenticeship or training is preferred. 
  • Restaurant, cooking and/or culinary experience preferred.  

The Fine Print (Still Important!):

Offers of employment are contingent upon a successful background check and drug screen. We want to keep our residents safe, happy, and in good hands-you're part of that promise.

Helia Healthcare, LLC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We're committed to building a team that represents a variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and skills. The more inclusive we are, the better we can serve our community.

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