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Nutrition Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

The Clinical Nutrition Specialist supports UnityPoint Health-Des Moines patients in achieving optimal nutritional health by applying advanced dietetic knowledge and clinical expertise. In alignment ...

The Clinical Nutrition Specialist supports UnityPoint Health-Des Moines patients in achieving optimal nutritional health by applying advanced dietetic knowledge and clinical expertise. In alignment ...

The Clinical Nutrition Specialist supports UnityPoint Health-Des Moines patients in achieving optimal nutritional health by applying advanced dietetic knowledge and clinical expertise. In alignment ...

Support Staff/Nutrition Worker Date Posted: 6/4/2026 Location: PCM Nutrition Date Available: 08/17/2026 Closing Date: Until filled PCM Community School District has an opening for a nutrition worker ...

Support Staff/Nutrition Worker Date Posted: 6/4/2026 Location: PCM Nutrition Date Available: 08/17/2026 Closing Date: Until filled PCM Community School District has an opening for a nutrition worker ...

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Nutrition information

See Iowa salary details

$6

$32

$62

How much do nutrition jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for nutrition in Iowa is $32.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $62.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs can you get with a nutrition degree?

With a degree in nutrition sciences, you can work in a clinical setting, for a private food business, with a public health agency, or in fields such as wellness education or health services. Some nutritionists perform research for a university while others may advise clients on nutrition for health food products or restaurant menus. The type of employment you can find may depend on your degree. For example, a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) has a bachelor’s degree in nutrition sciences, has completed an internship, and passed a certification exam. Employers usually consider certified dieticians experts in their field.

What are careers related to nutrition?

Careers related to nutrition include registered dietitians, nutritionists, clinical nutritionists, food service managers, and community health educators. These roles often require relevant certifications, knowledge of dietary guidelines, and skills in counseling, meal planning, or public health education.

How do nutrition professionals typically collaborate with other healthcare providers to support patient outcomes?

Nutrition professionals often work closely with doctors, nurses, and other allied health professionals to provide comprehensive care for patients. They may participate in interdisciplinary team meetings, contribute to care planning, and communicate dietary recommendations that align with medical treatments. This collaborative approach ensures that nutrition interventions are tailored to each patient's medical needs, supporting better health outcomes and coordinated care.

What is the difference between Nutrition vs Dietitian?

AspectNutritionDietitian
CredentialsGenerally requires a degree in nutrition or related field; certification may varyRequires a bachelor's degree, supervised practice, and licensure or registration
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, wellness centers, research, food industryHospitals, clinics, private practice, public health
Industry UsageUsed broadly for professionals providing nutritional adviceSpecific licensed professionals providing medical nutrition therapy

Nutrition professionals focus on general dietary advice and wellness, often without formal licensure, while dietitians are licensed experts qualified to provide medical nutrition therapy and work in clinical settings. The key difference lies in credentials and scope of practice, with dietitians typically having more regulated responsibilities.

What is a nutritionist?

Nutritionists are professionals who specialize in food and nutrition science to help individuals improve their health and well-being. They assess clients' dietary needs and create personalized meal plans to address specific health goals, such as weight management, disease prevention, or managing chronic conditions. Nutritionists may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, clinics, and private practice. Their role often involves educating people about healthy eating habits and the importance of balanced nutrition.

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

To thrive as a Nutritionist, you need a strong background in nutritional science, dietetics, and health assessment, usually supported by a degree in nutrition and relevant certification or licensure (such as RDN). Proficiency with dietary analysis software and familiarity with medical record systems are commonly required. Excellent communication, empathy, and motivational skills help Nutritionists effectively educate and encourage clients to adopt healthier habits. These skills ensure accurate nutritional guidance, personalized care, and positive health outcomes for diverse populations.
What are the most commonly searched types of Nutrition jobs in Iowa? The most popular types of Nutrition jobs in Iowa are:
What are popular job titles related to Nutrition jobs in Iowa? For Nutrition jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Nutrition jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Nutrition job openings:
Infographic showing various Nutrition job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,394 per year, or $32.9 per hour.

Nutrition Specialist

UnityPoint Health

Des Moines, IA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


UnityPoint Health rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 361 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

265th of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview

$20,000 Sign On Bonus!

In anticipation of upcoming retirements, UnityPoint Health is proactively recruiting Clinical Nutrition/Dietitian Specialists to join our team. This is an exciting opportunity to work in a collaborative environment that is committed to delivering exceptional, patient-centered care.

Our Clinical Dietitian Specialists play a vital role in caring for a highly acute and medically complex patient population. If you are passionate about making a meaningful impact through evidence-based nutrition care while working alongside a dedicated interdisciplinary team, we encourage you to explore this rewarding career opportunity at UnityPoint Health.

The Clinical Nutrition Specialist supports UnityPoint Health–Des Moines patients in achieving optimal nutritional health by applying advanced dietetic knowledge and clinical expertise. In alignment with the organization’s mission to improve community health through healing, caring, and teaching, this role contributes directly to positive patient outcomes by delivering evidence-based, individualized nutrition care. 

Why UnityPoint Health?

At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We’re proud to be recognized as a Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.  

Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you’re in.  Here are just a few:      

  • Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.   
  • Dental and health insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.  
  • Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.   

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.   

And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience. 

Find a fulfilling career and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.

Responsibilities
  • Deliver evidence-based nutrition care using the Nutrition Care Process (assessment, diagnosis, intervention, monitoring, and evaluation)  
  • Conduct comprehensive nutrition assessments using medical, biochemical, and dietary data  
  • Develop and implement individualized nutrition care plans for diverse patient populations  
  • Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and participate in patient rounds  
  • Communicate with providers to clarify orders and recommend safe, effective, and cost-conscious therapies  
  • Respond to complex nutrition consults and adjust care plans to optimize outcomes  
  • Provide nutrition education and counseling to patients, families, and healthcare professionals  
  • Serve as a clinical nutrition resource for staff, physicians, and assigned patient care areas  
  • Support and mentor dietetic technicians, students, and interns  
  • Participate in quality improvement initiatives, research, and outcome monitoring  
  • Contribute to development of policies, procedures, and evidence-based nutrition practices  
Qualifications

Education:  

  • After January 1, 2024 – Master's degree in dietetics or degree that meets the requirements of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.  
  • Individuals credentialed as Registered Dietitians prior to January 1, 2024 are eligible with a Bachelor’s degree in dietetics or degree that meets the requirements of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 
  • Successful completion of internship, coordinated undergraduate program, or post graduate program accredited by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 

Experience:  

  • Advanced level; specific to clinical specialty required. 
  • Preferred: A minimum of two years of progressively responsible inpatient clinical dietetic practice within the past five years 

License(s)/Certification(s):  

  • Licensed Dietitian in the state(s) of practice required. 
  • Reg Dietitian 
    • CDR – Commission on Dietetic Registration 
  • Advanced certification in the following required within 2 years of hire: 
    • Diabetes Comm Care Coord Cert Prog 
    • Board Certified-Gerontological Nutrition 
    • Board Certified-Renal Nutrition 
    • Board Certified-Ped Critical Care Nutrition 
  • IA/IL Child Abuse Mandatory Reporter Training in state(s) where providing care within 90 days of hire. 
  • IA/IL Adult Dependent Abuse Mandatory Reporter Training in state(s) where providing care within 90 days of hire. 
  • Certified Nutrition Support Clinician required within 1.5 years of hire. 
    • NBNSC – National Board of Nutrition Support Certification

What UnityPoint Health employees say

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Benefits

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Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995