Advance Your Career as a Clinical Dietitian with the Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently seeking a passionate and qualified Clinical Dietitian to serve our Veterans in the Muskegon, Michigan area. This position is a unique opportunity to contribute to a world-class healthcare system while specializing in geriatrics and extended care. If you are a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) dedicated to evidence-based practice and patient-centered care, we invite you to review this opportunity.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Dietitian, your primary role is to ensure that Veterans receive top-tier nutritional intervention. Your duties will include:
- Comprehensive Assessment: Conducting evaluations using the Nutritional Care Process (NCP).
- Therapy Development: Designing and implementing Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) tailored to each patient’s needs.
- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Working alongside doctors, nurses, and social workers to manage care.
- Performance Improvement: Assisting with service-level data collection to refine clinical policies and procedures.
- Education: Providing nutritional counseling to Veterans and their families.
Requirements
To be considered for this role, candidates must meet specific federal standards:
- A valid RDN or RD credential from the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
- Must be a U.S. citizen.
- Proficient in both written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a background security investigation.
- Commitment to the agency’s seasonal influenza vaccination requirements.
Salary and Grade Comparison
| Grade Level | Experience Requirement | Typical Scope |
|---|---|---|
| GS-07 | Basic requirements met | Entry-level clinical practice |
| GS-09 | 1 year experience or Master's degree | Intermediate patient management |
| GS-11 | 1 year experience as an RDN | Advanced, independent clinical practice |
The salary range for this position is $50,460 to $97,087 annually, depending on experience and qualifications.
Benefits
Employees of the VA enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Health Insurance: Access to the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) program.
- Retirement: Participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) and the Thrift Savings Plan.
- Paid Time Off: Accrual of annual leave, sick leave, and 11 paid federal holidays.
- Work-Life Balance: Access to professional growth opportunities and a stable work schedule.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: The VA provides a specific Clinical Resume Document. Using this ensures your formatting meets the requirements.
- Be Specific: Do not leave gaps in your work history. Quantify your experience with specific patient outcomes or initiatives.
- Include Documentation: Ensure your transcripts, professional licenses, and any Veterans' preference documents (like your DD214) are attached before submitting.
Serving those who have served our country is a profoundly rewarding career path. If you are a dedicated dietitian eager to make a tangible impact in the Muskegon community, we encourage you to submit your application package through the USAJOBS portal before August 24, 2026.
Why This Dietitian (Clinical) Job Matters
Transform lives through nutrition: Join the Veterans Health Administration as a Clinical Dietitian and provide essential care to those who served our nation.
Dietitian (Clinical) Job Overview
The Battle Creek VA Medical Center is seeking a dedicated Clinical Dietitian to join our Geriatrics & Extended Care team in Muskegon, Michigan. This role is pivotal in delivering comprehensive, evidence-based nutrition therapy to our Veteran population. You will work within an interdisciplinary team, applying the Nutrition Care Process (NCP) to improve clinical outcomes, develop personalized nutrition plans, and participate in performance improvement initiatives to support our Whole Health System of care.
Requirements for Dietitian (Clinical)
- U.S. Citizenship (Non-citizens may be considered only if qualified U.S. citizens are unavailable)
- Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) or Registered Dietitian (RD) credential from the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Clean driving record check
- Selective Service registration for males born after December 31, 1959
- Successful completion of a background/security investigation
- Commitment to a 1-year or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Dietitian (Clinical)
- Experience in clinical nutrition and the Nutrition Care Process (NCP)
- Ability to utilize virtual health technology for patient nutrition counseling
- Experience working within interdisciplinary healthcare teams
- Demonstrated skill in analyzing data for clinical performance improvement
- Knowledge of Joint Commission and other regulatory accreditation standards
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive Federal salary and pay structure
- ✓Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS and Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Generous paid vacation time, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning
- ✓Flexible work-life balance initiatives
💡 How to Apply Dietitian (Clinical) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dietitian (Clinical) Job
- Log in to or create your USAJOBS account.
- Download the required Clinical Resume Template from the provided VA careers link.
- Prepare your supporting documents, including transcripts and any applicable veteran preference proof (DD214, SF-15).
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume and all relevant documents to the application portal.
- Submit your final application package before the closing date of August 24, 2026.
💡 General Tips
- Use the specific Clinical Resume Template provided by the VA rather than a general resume for the primary upload.
- Be highly detailed in your resume; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your experience.
- Highlight specific instances where you used the ADIME (Assessment, Diagnosis, Intervention, Monitoring, Evaluation) format.
- Verify that all your uploaded documents are legible and current.
- Check your USAJOBS dashboard regularly for status updates after the application window closes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am not a U.S. Citizen?
Non-citizens may be considered for appointment only when it is not possible to recruit qualified U.S. citizens in accordance with VA policy.
What is the role of the Dietitian in the Geriatrics & Extended Care service?
You will be responsible for comprehensive nutrition assessments, developing Medical Nutrition Therapy plans, and monitoring outcomes for aging Veterans who require extended support.
Is this position eligible for relocation incentives?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this specific vacancy.
What is the work schedule?
The position typically operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Is this a remote role?
No, this is an onsite position requiring daily attendance in Muskegon, Michigan.
How do I know if I am eligible for Veterans' Preference?
Visit the [Feds Hire Vets](https://www.fedshirevets.gov) website for detailed information regarding eligibility categories and required supporting documents.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Battle Creek VA Medical Center is part of the Department of Veterans Affairs, an agency committed to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to support those who have served in our nation's military. The medical center provides a range of specialized services, including mental health care, community living support, and residential rehabilitation. By joining our team, you become part of a network that emphasizes "Whole Health," a personalized approach to care that empowers Veterans to take charge of their well-being.