Advance Your Career as a Clinical Dietitian with the VA Puget Sound
Are you a dedicated nutrition professional looking to make a meaningful impact? The VA Puget Sound Health Care System, a prestigious Level 1a interdisciplinary teaching facility, is currently seeking a Clinical Dietitian to join its dynamic team in Tacoma, Washington. This role offers the opportunity to provide evidence-based, compassionate care to those who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Dietitian, your duties are diverse and rewarding. You will:
- Conduct comprehensive nutrition assessments using the Nutrition Care Process (NCP).
- Develop individualized Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) plans.
- Perform Nutrition Focused Physical Exams (NFPE).
- Provide nutrition education to Veterans and their caregivers using motivational interviewing.
- Collaborate with food service staff to ensure nutritional compliance.
- Utilize virtual technology to expand access to care.
Requirements
Candidates must meet stringent federal standards, including:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Valid RDN credential from the CDR.
- English language proficiency.
- Completion of a security investigation.
Salary and Grade Overview
This position is filled within the GS-07 to GS-11 grade range, offering competitive compensation based on experience and education.
| Grade Level | Key Qualification Focus |
|---|---|
| GS-07 | Entry-level, meets basic requirements |
| GS-09 | One year of specialized experience or Master's degree |
| GS-11 | One year of RDN-level experience |
Benefits
Working for the VA provides stable federal employment, including comprehensive health coverage, retirement programs, and the personal satisfaction of serving Veterans.
Application Tips
- Always use the VA-specific clinical resume template.
- Be specific when detailing your experience; do not assume the recruiter knows your background.
- Verify that your DD-214 or other preference documents are attached if applicable.
Serving as a Clinical Dietitian at the VA Puget Sound is more than a job—it is a calling. Join a team where your expertise directly correlates to the quality of life for our nation's Veterans.
Why This Dietitian (Clinical) Job Matters
Transform lives through nutrition: Join the VA Puget Sound team and deliver specialized care to those who have served our country.
Dietitian (Clinical) Job Overview
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Clinical Dietitian to serve as a vital medical nutrition expert within our primary care clinics. In this role, you will collaborate with an interdisciplinary team, patients, and their caregivers to develop evidence-based, individualized nutritional care plans. By leveraging virtual care technologies and a whole-health approach, you will directly influence patient recovery, chronic disease management, and long-term health outcomes for our nation's Veterans.
Requirements for Dietitian (Clinical)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Registration as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959
- Must pass a background/security investigation
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Dietitian (Clinical)
- One or more years of experience in an outpatient nutrition clinic
- Master's degree in a related field
- Demonstrated skill in utilizing the Nutrition Care Process (NCP) in patient care
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary schedule
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits
- ✓Generous annual and sick leave accrual
- ✓Opportunities for professional development within a Level 1a teaching hospital
💡 How to Apply Dietitian (Clinical) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dietitian (Clinical) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Download the required standard Clinical Resume Document from the VA Careers website.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, the required one-page Clinical Resume Document, and any supporting documentation (e.g., transcripts, DD-214, SF-50).
- Submit your complete application package before the closing date.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume specifically addresses the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the announcement.
- Use the provided VA template for your clinical resume to ensure your application is processed correctly.
- Double-check that all required documents, especially those for Veterans' preference, are uploaded before the deadline.
- Submit your application early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am not currently registered as an RDN?
Non-credentialed dietitians may be hired under specific temporary appointment authorities, provided they meet certain educational and supervised practice requirements and actively pursue registration within one year.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an on-site clinical position located in Tacoma, Washington.
What if I don't have outpatient experience?
While outpatient experience is preferred, the VA values a diverse set of clinical skills. Ensure your resume highlights your experience with NCP and patient care.
Is there flexibility in the start date?
Applicants must meet all qualification requirements within 30 days of the announcement closing date.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class health care to Veterans. The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is one of the most complex in the nation, featuring specialty medical, surgical, and rehabilitation service lines. By working here, you become part of a mission-driven organization that prioritizes whole-health principles and innovation.