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Nutrition Service Director Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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.

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Encompass Health rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 422 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

413th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Nutrition Services Director Career Opportunity

Appreciated for your Nutrition Services skills
Are you in search of a career close to home and heart, where your nutrition expertise can make a significant impact? As the Nutrition Services Director at Encompass Health, you will lead the coordination and direction of our Nutrition Services Department. Your responsibilities will include setting and implementing policies and procedures that guide cafeteria management, food preparation, budgeting, purchasing, staff development and safety practices. If you are passionate about having a career close to home and heart, then consider joining us to help patients heal. 

A Glimpse into Our World
At Encompass Health, you'll experience the difference the moment you become a part of our team. Working with us means aligning with a rapidly growing national inpatient rehabilitation leader. Our achievements include being named one of the "World's Most Admired Companies" and receiving the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For Award, among other accolades, which is nothing short of amazing.

Starting Perks and Benefits
At Encompass Health, we are committed to creating a supportive, inclusive, and caring environment where you can thrive. From day one, you will have access to:

  • Affordable medical, dental, and vision plans for both full-time and part-time employees and their families.
  • Generous paid time off that accrues over time.  
  • Opportunities for tuition reimbursement and continuous education.
  • Company-matching 401(k) and employee stock purchase plans.
  • Flexible spending and health savings accounts.
  • A vibrant community of individuals passionate about the work they do!

Become the Nutrition Services Director you always wanted to be

  • Manage Departmental budget as it relates to position.
  • Perform and document all purchasing, receiving, and inventory control of food and supplies.
  • Maintain proper sanitation, temperature, and food handling techniques to comply with regulations.
  • Determine quality, quantity and portion size of food required and ensure proper handling of food.
  • Ensure adequate staffing and management of the department's employees.
  • Ensure production for both patient meals and cafeteria line are properly coordinated.
  • Develop cafeteria menu as needed.
  • Purchase food, assist with and assign duties for special needs or special occasions.

License or Certification 

  • Registered Dietitian (RD/RDN) or Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR/NDTR) with the Commission of Dietetic Registration (CDR) or Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) with the Certifying Board for Dietary Managers (CBDM) or an executive chef required.

Qualifications

  • Registered Dietitian (RD/RDN) with the Commission of Dietetic Registration (CDR) or Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) with the Certifying Board for Dietary Managers (CBDM) or an executive chef required.
  • Three to five years of healthcare clinical nutrition, or executive chef experience required.
  • Ten plus years healthcare food service experience, or five plus years of healthcare management experience required.
  • Graduate of a Bachelor's degree program in Dietetics, Culinary Arts or related field preferred.
  • Must have thorough knowledge of nutrition and dietetics, administration, and operation of hospital food services, and knowledge of all H.A.C.C.P. guidelines.

#LI-KM1 

The Encompass Health Way 

We proudly set the standard in care by leading with empathy, doing what's right, focusing on the positive, and standing stronger together. Encompass Health is a trusted leader in post-acute care with over 150 nationwide locations and a team of 36,000 exceptional individuals and growing! 
 
At Encompass Health, we celebrate and welcome diversity in our inclusive culture. We provide equal employment opportunities regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, religion, national origin, color, creed, age, mental or physical disability, or any other protected classification. 

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About Encompass Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Helping patients regain hope and independence, Encompass Health is a national leader in post-acute care. We operate rehabilitation hospitals in 36 states as well as Puerto Rico. Following the Encompass Way, we are driven by our core values: We proudly set the standard, lead with empathy, do what's right, focus on the positive, and remain stronger together.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Birmingham, AL, US