Advance Your Career as a Clinical Dietitian with the VA Puget Sound Health Care System
Are you a dedicated nutrition professional looking to combine your clinical expertise with a meaningful mission? The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is currently accepting applications for a Clinical Dietitian in Tacoma, Washington. This role offers the opportunity to provide essential medical nutrition therapy to those who have served our country. If you are passionate about patient-centered care and evidence-based nutrition, this could be the career pivot you’ve been searching for.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Dietitian, you will be the lead expert in nutrition within our primary care clinics. Your daily duties will include:
- Comprehensive Nutrition Assessment: Utilizing the Nutrition Care Process (NCP) to evaluate and monitor patient health.
- Individualized Care Planning: Creating tailored Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) plans that consider psychosocial and cultural factors.
- Patient Education: Utilizing motivational interviewing and virtual care platforms to help Veterans manage chronic diseases and improve their long-term health.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Working closely with foodservice staff and other healthcare providers to ensure cohesive patient care.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
- Certification: Must hold current RDN credentials from the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
- Language: Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Compliance: Ability to pass a background investigation and participate in the annual influenza vaccination program.
Grade Level Comparison
| Grade Level | Education/Experience Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-07 | Basic requirements (RDN or eligibility) |
| GS-09 | One year of equivalent experience or Master's degree |
| GS-11 | One year of RDN experience at the next lower grade |
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive salary range of $56,715 to $109,122 per year, depending on qualifications, experience, and the assigned grade level.
Benefits
Working for the federal government provides an excellent benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching, and generous paid time off.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Download the Clinical Resume document from the VA career portal to ensure your format is correct.
- Be Specific: Detail your clinical experience thoroughly. If you have outpatient experience, highlight it clearly.
- Prepare for the Questionnaire: Set aside adequate time to answer the occupational questionnaire honestly and accurately.
Serving our Veterans is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence. By joining the VA Puget Sound Health Care System, you will play a critical role in the health and recovery of the men and women who have sacrificed for our nation. Apply today and start your journey toward a rewarding career in clinical nutrition.
Why This Dietitian (Clinical) Job Matters
Transform lives through nutrition: Join the VA Puget Sound Health Care System as a Clinical Dietitian and help our nation’s heroes thrive through personalized, evidence-based care.
Dietitian (Clinical) Job Overview
The VA Puget Sound Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Clinical Dietitian to serve as a vital member of our interdisciplinary team. In this role, you will act as a medical nutrition expert within primary care clinics, developing patient-centered nutritional plans that honor the service and sacrifice of our Veterans. You will utilize the Nutrition Care Process (NCP) and modern telehealth technologies to deliver compassionate, high-quality care, helping patients manage chronic diseases and achieve long-term health outcomes.
Requirements for Dietitian (Clinical)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen (non-citizens may only be appointed if qualified citizens are unavailable).
- Hold a valid Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credential from the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
- Proficiency in both written and spoken English.
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program as a condition of employment.
- Must complete a 1 to 2-year trial period.
- Compliance with background, security, and suitability investigations.
- Male applicants born after 12/31/1959 must be registered with the Selective Service.
Preferred Qualifications for Dietitian (Clinical)
- One or more years of professional experience in an outpatient nutrition clinic setting.
- Demonstrated ability to utilize virtual care platforms such as VA Video Connect for patient consultations.
- Strong interpersonal skills for collaborating with diverse stakeholders and multidisciplinary healthcare teams.
- Proven track record in applying evidence-based nutrition practices to improve patient-centered outcomes.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- âś“Comprehensive federal health insurance options.
- âś“Generous paid time off, including sick leave and federal holidays.
- âś“Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS).
- âś“Access to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching.
- âś“Opportunities for professional development and continuing education within a teaching hospital environment.
- âś“Flexible work-life balance within a standard Monday-Friday schedule.
đź’ˇ How to Apply Dietitian (Clinical) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dietitian (Clinical) Job
- Create or log into your account at USAJOBS.
- Prepare your resume using the VA-specific Clinical Resume template.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload all required documentation, including RDN certification and transcripts.
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 30, 2026.
đź’ˇ General Tips
- Ensure your resume clearly articulates your specific duties and length of experience to avoid disqualification.
- Use the provided VA Clinical Resume template to ensure all necessary professional information is captured.
- Double-check your eligibility documents, such as SF-50s or DD-214s, if claiming veterans' preference.
- Monitor your email for status notifications following the closing of the announcement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I have not yet received my RDN credential?
Yes, under specific circumstances. Non-credentialed applicants may be hired under a temporary one-year appointment, provided they meet educational and ACEND-accredited program requirements. You must obtain your RDN registration within one year of your appointment date.
What is the work schedule for this position?
This is a full-time, onsite position located in Tacoma, WA. The standard work schedule is Monday through Friday, 7:30 AM to 4:00 PM.
Is relocation assistance available?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this position.
Is this a remote position?
*A: No, this is an onsite position located in Tacoma, WA.*
What if I don't have my RDN credential yet?
*A: You may qualify under a temporary appointment if you meet the educational and supervised practice requirements and are actively working toward your certification.*
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. VA Puget Sound Health Care System (VAPSHCS) is a Level 1a interdisciplinary teaching facility. Renowned for its complexity and comprehensive range of services—from emergency and surgical care to spinal cord injury units—VAPSHCS is at the forefront of providing whole-health care to our nation's Veterans. Joining this team means working in an environment that prioritizes innovation, compassion, and excellence.