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Nutrition Associate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

* We are hiring immediately for full and part time NUTRITION OPERATOR positions. * Location : Inova ... Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace ...

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Nutrition Associate information

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$7

$34

$66

How much do nutrition associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for nutrition associate in Virginia is $34.71, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $65.53 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a nutrition associate?

A nutrition associate is a professional who supports dietitians and nutritionists by collecting data, preparing educational materials, and assisting with client assessments. They often work in healthcare, community programs, or food service settings and may require knowledge of nutrition principles and relevant certifications. The role involves communication skills and attention to detail to promote healthy eating habits.

Is an Associates in nutrition worth it?

An associate's degree in nutrition prepares individuals for entry-level roles such as Nutrition Associate, focusing on basic nutrition knowledge, client education, and health promotion. It can lead to employment in healthcare, wellness centers, or community programs, but advancement often requires further education or certification. The degree provides foundational skills but may have limited job opportunities without additional qualifications.

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 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.

Can a nutritionist help with arthritis?

A nutrition associate or nutritionist can provide dietary guidance to help manage arthritis symptoms by recommending anti-inflammatory foods and maintaining a healthy weight. They often work with clients to develop personalized nutrition plans and may collaborate with healthcare providers for comprehensive care.

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.

How much does a nutrition associate make?

The average salary for a nutrition associate is around $35,000 to $45,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with certifications or specialized skills can earn higher wages. Salaries often increase with additional certifications such as Registered Dietitian or Nutritionist credentials.

What are Nutrition Associates?

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 most commonly searched types of Nutrition jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Nutrition jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Nutrition Associate jobs in Virginia? For Nutrition Associate jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Nutrition Associate jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Nutrition Associate jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Nutrition Associate jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Nutrition Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Nutrition Associate job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 45% Full Time, and 55% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $72,192 per year, or $34.7 per hour.
Nutritionist Associate

$38K - $42K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago


State Of Virginia rating

8.0

Company rating: 8.0 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 50 rated states


Job description

Nutritionist Associate

Apply now Job no: 5100574
Work type: Restricted Full-Time
Location: Portsmouth, Virginia
Categories: Health and Human Services

Title: Nutritionist Associate

State Role Title: Direct Service Associate II

Hiring Range: $38,000-$42,808

Pay Band: 2

Agency: Virginia Department of Health

Location: PORTSMOUTH -TW

Agency Website: https://www.vdh.virginia.gov/portsmouth/

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

Job Duties

The Nutritionist Associate independently determines nutrition eligibility of
applicants/clients within program guidelines and independently prescribes
appropriate food packages. Assesses nutritional status/eligibility for program services
by: dietary recall/food frequency history, assessing growth patterns, weight patterns,
biochemical values and medical history. Independently sets dietary goals based on
the assessment. Provides patient counseling specific to the individual's nutritional
needs. Makes referrals for high-risk counseling with Nutritionist when appropriate.

The Virginia Department of Health offers 12 paid holidays, medical, dental, vision and life insurance, retirement plans (including 401a Cash Match and 457 Deferred Compensation Plan) as well as sick, family/personal, and annual leave.

This position is restricted and subject to annual renewal of funds. 

Minimum Qualifications

Basic knowledge of nutrition and nutritional standards
Ability to conduct interviews and collect information
Ability to interpret, document, calculate, and compile routine data
Experience providing patient education and/or communicating information to individuals
Good communication skills, verbally and in writing, to interact with a variety of patients, peers, and supervisors
Ability to work effectively individually and as a team member
Experience multi-tasking and prioritizing workloads
Skills using computer systems

Additional Considerations

Training, job experience, or coursework in Nutrition, Dietetics, food services, or a related area preferred
Bilingual in Spanish and English preferred
Experience obtaining blood samples/finger sticks, and taking heights and weights of individuals

Special Instructions

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or resume is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.

You will be provided a confirmation of receipt when your application and/or resume is submitted successfully. Please refer to "Your Application" in your account to check the status of your application for this position.
"Employment is contingent upon satisfactory results of a state and federal criminal history background check and the Department of Social Service's Child Abuse and Neglect Central Registry check, U.S. HHSIG Exclusion List check, employment reference check and E-Verify. Other financial, credit, driving, background checks or completion of Statement of Economic Interests may be required for certain positions.
VDH accepts only on-line applications. Faxed, mailed, or e-mailed applications will not be considered. Applications are accepted until 11:55 p.m. on the job closing date. Applications and/or resumes should include relevant work history which indicates your qualifications for this position.
It is the policy of the Commonwealth and VDH that all aspects of human resource management be conducted without regard to race (or traits historically associated with race including hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles such as braids, locks, and twists); sex; color; national origin; religion; sexual orientation; gender identity or expression; age; veteran status; political affiliation; disability; genetic information; and pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. VDH employees have a shared Code of Ethics, which can be found in the bottom banner of our website: www.vdh.virginia.gov.
If you have been affected by DHRM Policy 1.30 layoff and possess a valid Interagency Placement Screening
Form (Yellow Card) or a Preferential Hiring Form (Blue Card), you must submit the card before the closing date for this position. The Card may be submitted with the state application as an attachment.
As a V3 (Virginia Values Veterans) employer VDH Welcomes Veterans to apply!
Supplemental Questions: You may be required to respond to position-specific questions at the end of this application. This information will help us evaluate your credentials and qualifications for the job. Failure to respond to any questions may disqualify you from further consideration."

Contact Information

Name: TANYA WEAVER

Phone: (757)393-8585

Email: Tanya.Weaver@vdh.virginia.gov

In support of the Commonwealth's commitment to inclusion, we are encouraging individuals with disabilities to apply through the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process. To be considered for this opportunity, applicants will need to provide their AHP Letter (formerly COD) provided by the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS), or the Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Service-Connected Veterans are encouraged to answer Veteran status questions and submit their disability documentation, if applicable, to DARS/DBVI to get their AHP Letter. Requesting an AHP Letter can be found at AHP Letter or by calling DARS at 800-552-5019.

Note: Applicants who received a Certificate of Disability from DARS or DBVI dated between April 1, 2022- February 29, 2024, can still use that COD as applicable documentation for the Alternative Hiring Process.

Advertised: 06 Mar 2026 Eastern Standard Time
Applications close:

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