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Nutrition Service Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Assists the Director and directs the nutrition team in establishing, implementing, and maintaining a measurable focus on quality and service enhancement, cost reduction and customer and associate ...

Assists the Director and directs the nutrition team in establishing, implementing, and maintaining a measurable focus on quality and service enhancement, cost reduction and customer and associate ...

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Nutrition Service Director information

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$34.5K

$54.8K

$111.5K

How much do nutrition service director jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for nutrition service director in the United States is $54,779.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,000.00 and $51,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become a nutrition service director?

To become a nutrition service director, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in nutrition, dietetics, or a related field, along with several years of experience in food service or nutrition management. Certification as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) or similar credential is often required, and strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills are essential for overseeing nutrition programs and staff.

What are some common challenges faced by a nutrition service director in coordinating with other departments within a healthcare facility?

A Nutrition Service Director often works closely with nursing, medical, and administrative teams to ensure patient dietary needs are met and food safety standards are maintained. Common challenges include managing communication across departments with differing priorities, adapting meal plans to meet diverse medical needs, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. Balancing the demands of patient satisfaction, cost control, and staff training can also be complex, but effective collaboration and strong organizational skills help in overcoming these hurdles.

What is a nutrition service director?

A nutrition service director is responsible for overseeing the planning, implementation, and management of nutrition programs in settings such as schools, hospitals, or community organizations. They ensure compliance with health regulations, develop menus, and supervise staff, often requiring certifications in nutrition or dietetics. Strong leadership, organizational skills, and knowledge of food safety are essential for this role.

What is the difference between Nutrition Service Director vs Dietitian?

AspectNutrition Service DirectorDietitian
CredentialsRegistered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), often with leadership experienceRegistered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)
Work EnvironmentHealthcare facilities, schools, or large organizations overseeing nutrition programsClinical settings, outpatient clinics, or community health programs
ResponsibilitiesManaging nutrition services, staff supervision, program developmentProviding individual nutrition counseling, assessments, and education

The Nutrition Service Director typically oversees entire nutrition programs and manages staff, while a Dietitian focuses on direct client care and nutrition counseling. Both roles require RD/RDN credentials, but their scope and responsibilities differ significantly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a nutrition service director?

To thrive as a Nutrition Service Director, you need a solid background in dietetics, food service management, and regulatory compliance, typically supported by a bachelor’s degree in nutrition or a related field and, often, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credential. Familiarity with menu planning software, food safety management systems, and budgeting tools is essential. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills set top candidates apart in managing teams and ensuring high service standards. These competencies ensure the delivery of safe, nutritious meals while maintaining operational efficiency and compliance with health regulations.

What does a nutrition service director do?

A Nutrition Service Director is responsible for overseeing the planning, implementation, and management of food and nutrition programs within institutions such as hospitals, schools, or long-term care facilities. They ensure that meals meet dietary guidelines, budgetary requirements, and food safety standards. Additionally, they supervise staff, develop menus, coordinate with other departments, and may also be involved in nutrition education and policy development. Their role is essential in promoting healthy eating habits and ensuring the well-being of those they serve.
More about Nutrition Service Director jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Nutrition Service jobs?

The most popular types of Nutrition Service jobs are:

What states have the most Nutrition Service Director jobs?

States with the most job openings for Nutrition Service Director jobs include:

Infographic showing various Nutrition Service Director job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,779 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Food & Nutrition Director

Cookeville Regional Medical Center

Cookeville, TN • On-site

$38K - $44K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Cookeville Regional Medical Center rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 37 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

508th of 1,059 rated hospitals


Job description

A hospital food service director is responsible for overseeing all aspects of food service operations, ensuring quality, compliance with health regulations, and effective management of staff and resources.
Bachelor of Science Degree in Nutrition or Dietetics, as well as the completion of an Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics approved internship or clinical experience.
Successfully passed CDR exam. Licensed in the State of Tennessee by the Board of Dietitian/Nutritionist Examiners
Any required education/certifications required by the State of Tennessee or other regulatory agency.
Five years' supervisory experience required, preferably in related field.

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