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Nutrition Assistant Jobs in Decatur, AL (NOW HIRING)

The Assistant General Manager (AGM) will contribute to Smoothie King's success by assisting the GM ... A genuine commitment to helping people live healthier lives through nutrition. It's been more than ...

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Nutrition Assistant information

See Decatur, AL salary details

$8

$16

$25

How much do nutrition assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for nutrition assistant in Decatur, AL is $16.26, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.32 and $18.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a nutrition assistant?

A Nutrition Assistant is a healthcare professional who supports dietitians and nutritionists by helping to plan, prepare, and deliver meals that meet specific dietary needs, often in hospitals, nursing homes, or schools. They may assist with menu planning, keep records of patient food intake, educate patients about proper nutrition, and ensure food safety standards are met. Nutrition Assistants play a vital role in promoting health and recovery by making sure patients receive balanced, appropriate meals according to their medical requirements.

What does a nutrition assistant do?

As a nutrition assistant, you educate clients or patients on healthy eating and nutrition. You evaluate your patient's dietary habits and help them develop a plan for healthy meals. Your job duties are to conduct patient interviews, provide dietary guidance, and report patient progress to the dietitian in charge. Depending on your employer, you will be responsible for other duties related to food and nutrition services. You can find nutrition assistant jobs in hospital settings, health facilities, and government food assistance programs such as the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program.

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

To thrive as a Nutrition Assistant, you need basic knowledge of nutrition principles, food safety, and meal preparation, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with dietary management software, food service equipment, and food handling certifications such as ServSafe are typically required. Strong attention to detail, teamwork, and effective communication with patients and staff set outstanding Nutrition Assistants apart. These skills ensure accurate dietary support, compliance with health regulations, and positive patient outcomes in healthcare or institutional settings.

What are some common challenges nutrition assistants face when working in healthcare settings, and how can they overcome them?

Nutrition Assistants in healthcare settings often encounter challenges such as managing special dietary needs for patients with medical conditions, coordinating with busy nursing staff, and ensuring food safety and compliance with regulations. To overcome these challenges, it’s important to maintain clear communication with dietitians and nursing teams, stay organized with meal tracking, and keep up-to-date with food safety protocols. Building strong teamwork skills and being adaptable can also help Nutrition Assistants effectively support patient care and maintain high standards.

What is the difference between Nutrition Assistant vs Dietetic Technician?

AspectNutrition AssistantDietetic Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may require certificationAssociate's degree in dietetics or nutrition; certification as a Dietetic Technician (DTR)
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, community health programsHospitals, long-term care facilities, outpatient clinics
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, public health organizationsHealthcare facilities, dietetics departments
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in nutritionClarifying professional responsibilities and credentials

Nutrition Assistants typically have a high school diploma and support dietitians in meal planning and patient education. Dietetic Technicians usually hold an associate's degree and certification, performing more specialized tasks under supervision. Both roles work in healthcare settings, but Dietetic Technicians have more formal training and responsibilities.

What cities near Decatur, AL are hiring for Nutrition Assistant jobs?

Cities near Decatur, AL with the most Nutrition Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Nutrition Assistant job openings in Decatur, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,827 per year, or $16.3 per hour.

Nutrition Education Program Coordinator

Normal, AL • On-site

Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University
Education • 11 - 50 employees

$53K - $69K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Salary: $53,325.00 - $69,270.00 Annually
Location : Normal
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Number: 202300591
Department: Cooperative Extension
Opening Date: 05/13/2025
Description
Summary:
Nutrition Education Program Coordinator will lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of direct nutrition education and physical activity programs in urban areas. This role involves supervising Nutrition Educators to ensure the use of evidence-based strategies, including behavior-focused techniques, effective motivators, and various communication networks. The ideal candidate will should have experience in promoting health, innovative educational programs, and successful health initiatives.
The Nutrition Education Program Coordinator will work under the direct supervision of the Nutrition and Hospitality Specialist at Alabama A&M University. This is a grant-funded position to meet everyone's health and nutrition needs.
Examples of Duties
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Assist the Principal Investigator (PI) and Co-Principal Investigator (Co-PI) with projects, reports, articles, curriculum materials, and media communications.
  • Lead the implementation of nutrition education and physical activity programs aligned with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and HHS Physical Activity Guidelines.
  • Supervise, mentor, and support staff and volunteers to ensure successful program execution.
  • Train educators on curricula, partnership development, and marketing strategies.
  • Organize training and professional development for educators.
  • Oversee daily operations of nutrition and physical activity interventions.
  • Ensure compliance with university, system, and program policies.
  • Build partnerships with community organizations and stakeholders to enhance program reach.
  • Collect, analyze, and report data to assess program effectiveness and participant outcomes.
  • Evaluate and improve program components for greater impact and engagement.
  • Develop and submit reports ensuring compliance with program guidelines.
  • Maintain accurate records following program protocols.
  • Collaborate with the Communication and Marketing team to promote healthy behaviors through social media, websites, and other channels.

Typical Qualifications
Minimum Position Requirements (including years of experience, certifications, licenses, etc.):
  • Master's degree in nutrition/dietetics, health education, health science or a related field.
  • Five years of experience coordinating or managing nutrition outreach education programs.
  • Strong leadership and supervisory skills with the ability to manage teams and work collaboratively.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including experience preparing reports, presentations, and training materials.
  • Proficient in computer operations, software applications, data management, and adapting to new technologies (e.g., PEARS, MS Word, Banner, Concur, etc.).
  • Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills with the ability to adapt strategies to program needs.
  • Must have reliable transportation and a valid driver's license to travel within the designated area (mileage reimbursement available).

Supplemental Information
For inquiries about this position, contact Juanesta Green, Administrative Services Coordinator/Office Manager at greenj9@aces.edu.
We offer a complete benefits package to full-time employees including health care, dental, vision, retirement, deferred compensation plans, flexible spending accounts, life insurance, short and long-term disability, holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
To learn more details, visit our benefits page at
01
Do you have a master's degree in nutrition/dietetics, health education, health science or a related field?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Do you have five years of experience coordinating or managing nutrition outreach education programs?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Are you proficient in computer operations, software applications, data management, and adapting to new technologies (e.g., PEARS, MS Office, Banner, Concur, etc.)
  • Yes
  • No

04
Do you have reliable transportation and a valid driver's license to travel within the designated area (mileage reimbursement is available)?
  • Yes
  • No

Required Question