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Nutrition Associate Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Nutrition Care Associate PRN

West Covina, CA · On-site

$17.68 - $22.99/hr

As a Nutrition Care Associate on our Food & Nutrition Services team, you'll support patient care and enhance the patient experience by delivering and presenting high-quality, nourishing meals for ...

Food Service

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$13.50 - $19.92/mo

A public school food service employee - often titled a Food Service Worker or School Nutrition Associate - is responsible for preparing and serving meals to students while maintaining a sanitary and ...

In this role, you will be providing nutritional care, supervising food service associates, and promoting a culture of wellness for residents and staff. What You'll Do: • Medical Nutrition Therapy ...

In this role, you will be providing nutritional care, supervising food service associates, and promoting a culture of wellness for residents and staff. What You'll Do: • Medical Nutrition Therapy ...

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Nutrition Associate information

See California salary details

$7

$34

$65

How much do nutrition associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for nutrition associate in California is $34.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $65.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a nutrition associate?

Nutrition Associates are professionals who support dietitians and nutritionists in providing nutrition services to patients or clients. They often assist with meal planning, nutrition education, and monitoring dietary needs in various settings, such as hospitals, schools, or community organizations. Their responsibilities may include preparing educational materials, helping with food service operations, and ensuring that meals meet specific dietary guidelines. Nutrition Associates typically work under the supervision of a registered dietitian or nutritionist and play a key role in promoting healthy eating habits.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a nutrition associate in a healthcare setting?

As a Nutrition Associate in a healthcare environment, your daily tasks often include preparing and delivering patient meals according to dietary guidelines, assisting with menu selections, and ensuring food safety protocols are followed. You may also interact directly with patients to gather feedback or relay dietary restrictions to the kitchen staff. Collaboration with dietitians, nurses, and food service teams is common to ensure each patient's nutritional needs are met, making strong communication skills essential. This role requires attention to detail and adaptability, as patient needs and meal plans can frequently change.

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

To thrive as a Nutrition Associate, you need a foundational knowledge of nutrition science, food safety, and dietary guidelines, usually supported by a relevant degree or certification. Familiarity with nutrition analysis software, inventory management systems, and food service tools is typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and attention to detail help you effectively support clients and collaborate with healthcare professionals. These skills ensure accurate nutrition guidance, safe food preparation, and positive client outcomes in diverse settings.

What is the difference between Nutrition Associate vs Nutritionist?

AspectNutrition AssociateNutritionist
CredentialsTypically requires a bachelor's degree in nutrition, dietetics, or related field; certification may varyOften requires a bachelor's degree, and many are registered dietitians (RD) with additional certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, community health programs, or wellness centersPrivate practice, healthcare facilities, or consulting roles
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare providers, public health organizations, and educational institutionsHealthcare, private practice, and wellness industries

The main difference between a Nutrition Associate and a Nutritionist lies in their credentials and scope of practice. Nutrition Associates often work under supervision and focus on supporting nutrition programs, while Nutritionists may have more autonomy and specialized roles, especially if registered or licensed.

What are the most commonly searched types of Nutrition jobs in California?

The most popular types of Nutrition jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Nutrition Associate jobs?

Cities in California with the most Nutrition Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Nutrition Associate job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,863 per year, or $34.5 per hour.

Nutrition Associate (Part Time) 183 Days Per Year

Salinas City Elementary School District

Salinas, CA • On-site

Other

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Nutrition Associate

Under the general supervision of the Lead Cook, assists the Lead Cook at the base kitchen in food preparation; cleans kitchen equipment and utensils. Does other related work as required by the supervisor. The Nutrition Associate is distinguished from other Nutrition Program jobs by being assigned to a satellite or base kitchen function in a support capacity as part of a team. To perform the job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each essential duty. The requirements listed in the job description are representative of the knowledge, skills, and abilities required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential duties.

See job description Only those applicants with a complete application packet & meeting the job description qualifications will be invited to interview. A complete application package includes Application with the previous work history filled out Contact information for 3 professional references completely filled out Upload of all required documents

Education and Experience: * Any combination of training and experience that has provided the applicant with the required knowledge and abilities to successfully perform job duties * Requires passing the District Nutrition Basic Skills Test * Must obtain a Health Department-required Food Handler Card within 30 days of employment; this card must be kept current Licenses and Certificates: * Possession of an appropriate, Valid California driver's license with evidence of insurability * Current ServSafe Food Handlers Certificate; this certificate must be kept current

  • Driver's License Copy (Driver License)
  • Proof of HS Graduation (HS or equivalent)
  • OR Proof of HS Graduation (HS or equivalent)

Loma Vista 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. See job description. Requires passing District Nutrition Basic Skills Test Qualified candidates will be notified of the date and time of the testing session.