1

Nutrition Tech Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Nutrition Tech information

See Tennessee salary details

$11

$18

$25

How much do nutrition tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for nutrition tech in Tennessee is $18.51, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a nutrition tech?

Nutrition Techs, or Nutrition Technicians, are healthcare professionals who assist registered dietitians and nutritionists in planning, implementing, and monitoring nutrition programs for patients or clients. They may help with meal planning, educate patients on healthy eating habits, collect dietary information, and ensure compliance with nutritional guidelines. Nutrition Techs often work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, or community health settings, playing a key role in supporting overall patient wellness.

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

To thrive as a Nutrition Tech, you need a solid understanding of nutrition principles, food safety, and dietary guidelines, often supported by a certificate or associate degree in nutrition or dietetics. Familiarity with food service management systems, nutrition analysis software, and basic kitchen equipment is typically required. Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and effective communication make someone stand out in this position. These skills are crucial for ensuring the safe and accurate preparation of meals that meet dietary requirements and support patient or client health.

What are some common challenges nutrition techs face when working with patients and how can they be addressed?

Nutrition Techs often encounter challenges such as working with patients who have dietary restrictions, limited food preferences, or varying levels of nutrition knowledge. Building strong communication skills and collaborating closely with Registered Dietitians can help address these issues. Additionally, staying organized and adaptable allows Nutrition Techs to effectively manage multiple patient cases, ensure accurate meal planning, and provide tailored support to diverse individuals.

What is the difference between Nutrition Tech vs Dietetic Technician?

AspectNutrition TechDietetic Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be optionalAssociate's degree in dietetics or nutrition; DTR credential
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, community health settingsHospitals, long-term care, outpatient clinics
Job ResponsibilitiesAssist with food prep, basic nutrition education, data collectionPlan menus, provide nutrition counseling, support dietitians

Nutrition Techs typically have less formal education and focus on assisting with food service and basic nutrition tasks. Dietetic Technicians have specialized training, often hold a credential, and perform more advanced nutrition planning and counseling. Both roles work closely with healthcare teams but differ in scope and qualifications.

How to become a nutrition tech?

To become a nutrition tech, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and may pursue a certification in nutrition or health sciences. Relevant skills include knowledge of nutrition principles, customer service, and familiarity with medical or dietary tools; some positions may require additional training or certification programs.

What job categories do people searching Nutrition Tech jobs in Tennessee look for?

The top searched job categories for Nutrition Tech jobs in Tennessee are:

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Nutrition Tech jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Nutrition Tech job openings:

Infographic showing various Nutrition Tech job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 10% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,509 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

$35K - $45K/yr

Other

Re-posted yesterday


East Tennessee Children's Hospital rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

683rd of 1,061 rated hospitals


Job description

Job Title

Assists the Food Service Supervisors in meeting patient needs in the areas of infant formula preparation, diet office, tray line, and department clerical needs. May assist the Clinical Dietitian when requested in meeting patient care needs under supervision of the Registered Dietitian.

Reports To

Director—Food & Nutrition

Job Requirements

Supervisory Responsibilities: No

Minimum Education:

  • Associate degree for Dietetic Technician or currently pursuing a Bachelor's degree to become a Registered Dietitian preferred.
  • Completion of college-level courses in basic nutrition and diet therapy preferred.
  • High school diploma / GED required.

Degree: Dietic Technician or Registered Dietitian

License/Certification Required: Registered Dietetic Technician by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) preferred.

Minimum Work Experience: 1 year food service or other nutrition-related experience.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Ability to communicate effectively (verbal and written,) MS office skills, computer skills, ability to work with all staff, families and providers, customer service focused.
Duties and Responsibilities
  • Under the direction of the Clinical Dietitian, provides nutrition education and simple diet instructions as assigned. Clearly documents in the medical record.
  • Prepares infant formulas following hospital and HACCP guidelines. Delivers to patient unit refrigerators and returns unused formulas from the previous day.
  • Sterilizes formulas as requested.
  • Completes lab requisitions accurately and takes samples to the lab to be cultured.
  • Plans menus and snacks with patients' families in accordance with diet restrictions, patient preferences and allergies/intolerances.
  • Interacts in a polite and collaborative manner with other members of the health care team as necessary to determine the patient's condition and to determine if modifications are needed in the dietary regimen.
  • Assists the Food Service Supervisor in food production area with patient trayline, snacks, and parent meals, as well as assistance with modified diets and contacts the Clinical Dietitian for direction if needed.
  • Communicates appropriate information to others.
  • Works as a team with other food and nutrition staff for better patient care and overall departmental planning.
  • Demonstrates teamwork and the spirit of cooperation.
  • Willingly accepts any other assignment that may be requested.
  • Maintains accurate and timely inventory within responsibility.
  • Utilizes hospital resources and time respectfully and accountably. Manages time efficiently and is always contributing while on the job.
Physical Requirements
  • Note: Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
  • Medium lifting, pushing and pulling is required for 20-50 lbs occasionally, 10-20 pounds frequently and 10 lbs constantly to move objects. Sudden emergency situations have the potential for exposure for lifting or moving of up to 100 lbs. Frequent bending, walking, sitting, squatting, reaching, and standing are required. Keyboard/computer use and/or repetitive motions may be required.

Come work where you can make a difference everyday.


What East Tennessee Children's Hospital employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom