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Patient Nutrition Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

UWHealth

Patient Nutrition Assistant - Full time

Madison, WI · On-site

$16.25 - $22.50/hr

We are seeking a Patient Nutrition Assistant who has the drive to create a unique dining experience for adult and pediatric patients. We are seeking a Patient Nutrition Assistant who: * Prioritizes ...

UWHealth

Patient Nutrition Assistant

Rockford, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Our respect for people shines through patient care interactions and our daily work practices as we work to embrace the knowledge, unique perspectives and qualities each employee and faculty member ...

UWHealth

Patient Nutrition Assistant

Rockford, IL · On-site

$16.25 - $22.25/hr

Our respect for people shines through patient care interactions and our daily work practices as we work to embrace the knowledge, unique perspectives and qualities each employee and faculty member ...

UW Health

Patient Nutrition Assistant

Rockford, IL · On-site

$17.62 - $23.79/hr

Our respect for people shines through patient care interactions and our daily work practices as we work to embrace the knowledge, unique perspectives and qualities each employee and faculty member ...

UW Health

Patient Nutrition Assistant

Rockford, IL · On-site

$17.62 - $23.79/hr

Our respect for people shines through patient care interactions and our daily work practices as we work to embrace the knowledge, unique perspectives and qualities each employee and faculty member ...

CommonSpirit Health

Nutrition Assistant II

Omaha, NE

$14.75 - $20/hr

At CHI Health Creighton University Medical Center - Bergan Mercy, our focus is patient-centered ... As a Nutrition Assistant, you will assist in delivering high-quality, safe, and efficient food ...

CommonSpirit Health

Nutrition Assistant II

Omaha, NE

$14.75 - $20/hr

At CHI Health Creighton University Medical Center - Bergan Mercy, our focus is patient-centered ... As a Nutrition Assistant, you will assist in delivering high-quality, safe, and efficient food ...

Select Medical

Nutrition Assistant

Miami, FL

$19.25/hr

Nutrition Assistant Location: Miami, FL Schedule: Per Diem, 8-hour shifts Compensation: $19.25 per ... Responsible for patient food service contact, patient menu management, obtaining patient menu ...

CommonSpirit Health

Nutrition Assistant II

Lincoln, NE

$13.50 - $18.50/hr

As a Nutrition Assistant, you will assist in delivering high-quality, safe, and efficient food ... Collecting patient food preferences and ensuring compliance with prescribed diet orders.

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How much do patient nutrition assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for patient nutrition assistant in the United States is $21.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $21.39 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Patient Nutrition Assistants?

Patient Nutrition Assistants are healthcare support professionals who help ensure patients receive meals that meet their dietary needs and preferences while following medical or nutritional guidelines set by healthcare providers. They typically work in hospitals, nursing homes, or other healthcare facilities, collaborating with dietitians, nurses, and kitchen staff. Their responsibilities include taking meal orders, delivering food trays, addressing patient dietary concerns, and sometimes assisting with menu planning to accommodate special diets. Their role is essential for patient health, comfort, and recovery, as proper nutrition is a key part of medical care.

What is the highest paying job in nutrition?

The highest paying jobs in nutrition typically include roles such as clinical nutrition managers, dietitians in leadership positions, or specialized nutrition researchers, often requiring advanced degrees and certifications like Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). These roles involve overseeing nutrition programs, conducting research, or managing healthcare nutrition services, with salaries varying based on experience and location.

What is the role of a nutrition assistant?

A patient nutrition assistant supports healthcare teams by helping develop and implement nutritional plans for patients, monitoring their dietary intake, and providing education on healthy eating. They often work in hospitals or clinics, requiring knowledge of nutrition guidelines and good communication skills.

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

To thrive as a Patient Nutrition Assistant, you need knowledge of basic nutrition, food safety, and experience in food service, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with dietary management software, tray line systems, and compliance with food handling regulations is typical. Strong communication, attention to detail, and empathy help you accurately address patient dietary needs and collaborate with healthcare teams. These skills are crucial for ensuring patients receive safe, appropriate meals that support their health and recovery.

What are some common challenges faced by Patient Nutrition Assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Patient Nutrition Assistants often encounter challenges such as balancing dietary restrictions with patient preferences, managing high volumes of meal orders, and ensuring clear communication with both patients and clinical staff. To address these, it's important to develop strong organizational skills, be attentive to detail, and stay up to date on hospital dietary guidelines. Effective teamwork and proactive communication with dietitians and nursing staff can also help resolve issues quickly and ensure patients receive appropriate and enjoyable meals.

Is AI going to replace dietitians?

AI is unlikely to replace patient nutrition assistants or dietitians entirely, as these roles require personalized assessment, counseling, and human interaction. AI tools can support dietitians by providing data analysis and meal planning, but the profession relies on professional judgment and communication skills that AI cannot replicate fully.

What is the difference between Patient Nutrition Assistant vs Diet Aide?

AspectPatient Nutrition AssistantDiet Aide
CertificationsTypically requires a nutrition-related certification or trainingMay require basic food service or dietary aide certification
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, long-term care facilitiesHospitals, nursing homes, food service settings
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with patient meal planning, monitoring intake, supporting diet ordersPreparing and serving meals, assisting with food service tasks

The Patient Nutrition Assistant primarily focuses on supporting patient-specific dietary needs and monitoring intake within healthcare settings, often requiring specialized nutrition knowledge. In contrast, the Diet Aide typically handles food preparation and service tasks in various food service environments. While both roles involve working in healthcare or food service settings, the Patient Nutrition Assistant has a more clinical focus on patient care related to nutrition.

What skills do you need to be a nutrition assistant?

A patient nutrition assistant needs strong communication skills to interact effectively with patients and healthcare teams. They should have knowledge of nutrition principles, basic food safety, and often require attention to detail and organizational skills. Certification in food safety or nutrition-related training can also be beneficial.
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What states have the most Patient Nutrition Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Patient Nutrition Assistant jobs include:
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Patient Nutrition Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Patient Nutrition Assistant job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,686 per year, or $22 per hour.
Patient Nutrition Assistant - Full time

Patient Nutrition Assistant - Full time

UW Health

Madison, WI • On-site

$18.50 - $21.21/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

UW Health rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 217 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 877 rated healthcare providers

Job description


Work Schedule:
This is a full-time, 40 hours per week position. Multiple shifts are available. Every other weekend is required. Hours may vary based on the needs of the department.
Be part of something remarkable
Join the #1 hospital in Wisconsin! Put your passion for food and culinary experience to use and join our remarkable culinary team.
We are seeking a Patient Nutrition Assistant who has the drive to create a unique dining experience for adult and pediatric patients.
We are seeking a Patient Nutrition Assistant who:
  • Prioritizes patient care above all other duties.
  • Accurately assembles and delivers patient meal trays.
  • Maintains kitchen order by ensuring cleanliness of work areas.
  • Sanitizes dishes, cookware, equipment, and environment.
  • Is comfortable working in a fast-paced and continually changing environment.

View our video to learn more
Patient Nutrition Assistants are eligible for:
  • Paid time off, including 15 days of vacation time for full-time employees.
  • A free bus pass to assist with transportation to and from work.
  • Continuing education for both professional and personal growth.

Additional components of compensation may include:
  • Evening or night shift differential

At UW Health, you will have:
  • An excellent benefits package, including health and dental insurance, paid time off, retirement plans, two-week paid parental leave and adoption assistance.
  • Options for a variety of schedules and shifts that offer flexibility and allow for work-life balance.
  • Access to UW Health's Wellness Options at Work that support employee/family well-being.
  • Tuition benefits eligibility - UW Health invests in your professional growth by helping pay for coursework associated with career advancement.

Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED Preferred

Work Experience
  • Food service and/or customer service experience Preferred

Licenses & Certifications
  • ServSafe Certification Preferred

Our Commitment to Social Impact and Belonging
UW Health is committed to fostering a workplace that creates belonging for everyone and is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. Our respect for people shines through patient care interactions and our daily work practices as we work to embrace the knowledge, unique perspectives and qualities each employee and faculty member brings to work each day. It is the policy of UW Health to provide equal opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, protected veteran or disabled status, or genetic information.
University Hospital in Madison is a Magnet®-designated facility that's ranked Wisconsin's #1 hospital and considered one of the nation's leading hospitals, teaching institutions and referral centers.
American Family Children's Hospital in Madison, Wisconsin-also a Magnet®-designated facility-provides specialized care in a healing environment designed especially for pediatric patients and their families. American Family Children's Hospital is a comprehensive pediatric medical and surgical center, with nationally recognized pediatric specialists in a wide range of fields. It is also home to our Level One Pediatric Trauma Center and Level IV NICU, which cares for the tiniest patients throughout Wisconsin and beyond.
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About UW Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

UW Health Clinics - our physicians and staff are dedicated to providing an exceptional patient and family experience by delivering the highest quality of care in a compassionate environment. With more than 80 primary and specialty care clinics located throughout Dane County and the surrounding areas, we are proud to have the opportunity to impact the communities we serve.

Industry

Health care and social assistance and hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Madison, WI, US

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