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Nutrition Program Specialist information

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$30.5K

$67.1K

$114K

How much do nutrition program specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for nutrition program specialist in the United States is $67,077.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $79,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Nutrition Program Specialist do?

A Nutrition Program Specialist is responsible for developing, implementing, and evaluating nutrition programs designed to improve health and well-being in communities or organizations. They may work in schools, government agencies, healthcare settings, or non-profits, and often provide education, assess nutritional needs, and ensure compliance with government regulations. Their work includes creating educational materials, training staff, analyzing program effectiveness, and sometimes managing budgets or grants. They play a key role in promoting healthy eating habits and addressing nutrition-related health issues.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Nutrition Program Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Nutrition Program Specialist, you need a solid background in nutrition science, program planning, and often a degree in nutrition, dietetics, or public health. Familiarity with nutrition analysis software, data management systems, and relevant certifications such as Registered Dietitian (RD) or Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) are typically required. Strong communication, organizational skills, and cultural competence help specialists engage communities and collaborate with stakeholders effectively. These skills and qualifications are crucial for designing, implementing, and evaluating nutrition programs that improve public health outcomes.

What are some typical challenges faced by Nutrition Program Specialists when implementing community nutrition initiatives?

Nutrition Program Specialists often encounter challenges such as limited resources, varying cultural dietary preferences, and ensuring participant engagement. Coordinating with local organizations and adapting programs to meet the unique needs of diverse populations requires flexibility and creativity. Additionally, measuring program effectiveness and securing ongoing funding are common aspects that require strong organizational and communication skills.

What is the difference between Nutrition Program Specialist vs Nutrition Educator?

AspectNutrition Program SpecialistNutrition Educator
Required CredentialsRegistered Dietitian (RD) or Nutrition CertificationCertification in nutrition or health education often preferred
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, community programs, healthcare settingsSchools, community centers, public health programs
Employer & Industry UsagePublic health, government, non-profitsEducational institutions, community outreach

Both roles focus on promoting healthy eating habits, but Nutrition Program Specialists typically develop and manage nutrition programs within organizations, often requiring formal credentials like an RD. Nutrition Educators primarily deliver educational content to the public or specific groups, often with less emphasis on program management. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

More about Nutrition Program Specialist jobs
What states have the most Nutrition Program Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Nutrition Program Specialist jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Nutrition Program Specialist jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Nutrition Program Specialist jobs are:
Nutrition Program Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Nutrition Program Specialist job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $67,077 per year, or $32.2 per hour.
Regional Child Nutrition Program Specialist

Regional Child Nutrition Program Specialist

State of Oklahoma

Sayre, OK • On-site

$66K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Job Posting Title
Regional Child Nutrition Program Specialist
Agency
265 DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION
Supervisory Organization
Department of Education-Oliver Hodge Education Building
Job Posting End Date
Refer to the date listed at the top of this posting, if available. Continuous if date is blank.
Note: Applications will be accepted until 11:59 PM on the day prior to the posting end date above.
Estimated Appointment End Date (Continuous if Blank)
Full/Part-Time
Full time
Job Type
Regular
Compensation
$66,358 based on education and experience.
Job Description
POSITION OVERVIEW
The Regional Child Nutrition Specialist serves as a knowledgeable consultant and trusted resource supporting the effective administration of Child Nutrition Programs (CNP) within an assigned territory. This position provides technical assistance, training, and regulatory guidance to school and non-school administrators and food service personnel. The Specialist interprets state and federal program requirements, proactively addresses operational and compliance concerns, and supports the overall success, integrity, and continuous improvement of child nutrition programs serving children across the region.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.
  • Knowledge & Expertise: Knowledge of Child Nutrition Programs and applicable state and federal regulations, including USDA requirements. Understanding of food service operations, menu planning, nutrition standards, and procurement practices. Ability to interpret regulations and apply them practically in operational settings. Strong instructional and facilitation skills, including the ability to deliver effective training. Ability to work independently, manage a regional territory, and prioritize multiple responsibilities. Professional judgment, discretion, and the ability to handle sensitive situations with tact and fairness.
  • Training, Education & Technical Assistance: Provide training and technical assistance to CNP participants within the assigned territory to support program understanding, compliance, and effective operations. Collaborate with Nutrition Education and Training staff to plan, organize, and deliver in-person and virtual training opportunities. Assist in the development, maintenance, and implementation of current and relevant training curricula for CNP participants. Encourage and support the use of online and self-paced training resources. Provide peer support to fellow regional staff by assisting with technical assistance, administrative reviews, and problem resolution as needed. Assist with onboarding and training of new field staff. When a regional field position is vacant, temporarily assist in assuming regulatory responsibilities for that territory to ensure continuity of program oversight.
  • Program Monitoring, Compliance, and Reviews: Conduct comprehensive reviews of Child Nutrition Program operations at participating institutions within the assigned territory using established review instruments. Evaluate compliance with contract requirements and applicable state and federal laws, rules, and regulations. Review work standards, procurement and purchasing practices, and the proper use of USDA donated foods. Evaluate menus to ensure required nutritional standards are met. Review food service facilities to observe food preparation, meal service, and operational practices. Prepare clear, accurate, and timely reports documenting review findings, observations, and required corrective actions. Communicate program requirements, updates, and guidance clearly and respectfully to diverse stakeholders.
  • Program Improvement, Investigation, and Support: Identify management or operational concerns and provide guidance to support corrective action and continuous improvement. Investigate complaints related to Child Nutrition Programs and document findings, recommendations, and required corrective measures. Provide technical support related to corrective action plans and follow-up activities.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS
  • Bachelor's degree in Education, Nutrition, or related field. [official transcripts required upon hire];
  • Three (3) years of experience in the administration or coordination of food and nutrition programs.
  • Or an equivalent combination of education and experience, substituting one year of relevant experience for each year of the required education.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Master's degree in Education, Nutrition, or related field [official transcripts required upon hire];

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
  • Applicants must be currently authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without sponsorship;
  • Successful completion of a pre-employment background check;
  • Must possess a valid driver's license from a U.S. state or territory to perform necessary job-related travel.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT
Location: Designated Counties in Oklahoma
Physical Demands Include:
o Ability to stand, reach, and bend 50% of the time;
o Operates a computer and other office productivity machinery, such as a calculator, copy machine/printer, and office telephone 75% of the time;
o Ascends/descends stairs 25% of the time;
o Ability to lift to 30 lbs.
Cognitive Requirements:
o This role requires clear and accurate communication, strong analytical skills, and the ability to evaluate information and make timely decisions.
o Sustained focus and attention to detail are essential, along with memory retention of policies, procedures, and facts over various time frames.
o Adaptability and mental flexibility are also necessary to handle changing information, work conditions, and unexpected challenges.
TRAVEL
80% regular regional travel is required to conduct reviews, provide training, and deliver technical assistance on-site to program participants.
Discover the Benefits of Joining Our Team!
Are you ready to take the next step in your career with an agency that values your well-being? Look no further! At OSDE, we're proud to offer a robust benefits package designed to support you and your family every step of the way.
  • Generous Benefits Allowance: Up to $21,934.08 annually, tailored to family size, for purchasing benefits.
  • Comprehensive Insurance Plans: Choose from a variety of insurance plans with no pre-existing conditions, exclusions, or limitations
  • Flexible Spending Accounts: Manage healthcare expenses and/or dependent care with ease.
  • Full Participation in TRS: Enjoy employer-covered contributions (7.5% of annual salary) for Teacher's Retirement System participation.
  • Generous Leave Policy: Full-time employees receive 15 days of vacation and 15 days of sick leave in their first year.
  • Paid Holidays: Benefit from 11 paid holidays per year.
  • Employee Discounts: Access discounts with various companies and vendors.
  • Longevity Bonus: Earn a bonus after completing two years of service, with bonuses continuing annually thereafter.
  • Compensatory Time: FLSA Exempt and Nonexempt employees receive compensatory time.
  • Employee Assistance Program: Access support and resources through our Employee Assistance Program.

Equal Opportunity Employment
The State of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of genetic information, race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, or disability.
Current active State of Oklahoma employees must apply for open positions internally through the Workday Jobs Hub.
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