Advance Your Career as a Clinical Dietitian with the VA
Are you a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) passionate about making a tangible difference in the lives of those who served our country? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently seeking a motivated Clinical Dietitian to join our team in Toms River, New Jersey. This role offers a unique opportunity to apply evidence-based nutrition practices within a supportive, mission-driven environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Dietitian, your role is pivotal in the nutrition and recovery of our Veteran patients. Key responsibilities include:
- Nutrition Assessment: Performing comprehensive nutritional evaluations, including nutrition-focused physical exams using the Nutrition Care Process (NCP).
- Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT): Developing and implementing individualized MNT plans to address specific diagnoses.
- Collaboration: Working alongside healthcare providers and the Food Operations Section to ensure high-quality patient experiences.
- Documentation: Maintaining accurate medical records using the ADIME (Assessment, Diagnosis, Intervention, Monitoring, Evaluation) format.
Requirements
To be eligible for this position, candidates must meet specific federal requirements:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a U.S. Citizen |
| Credential | Must hold RDN/RD status with the CDR |
| Language | Proficiency in written and spoken English |
| Vaccination | Mandatory seasonal influenza immunization |
| Trial Period | Successful completion of a 1-year or 2-year trial period |
Salary and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $88,005 to $114,413 per year. Beyond the base salary, employees enjoy access to a robust federal benefits package, which typically includes comprehensive health coverage, retirement programs, and generous leave policies.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: The VA provides a specific Clinical Resume Document. Use it to ensure your application meets the administrative requirements.
- Be Detailed: Clearly articulate your clinical experience, including internships and volunteer work that demonstrate your expertise.
- Double-Check Deadlines: The application portal closes on September 1, 2026. Submit well in advance to avoid technical issues.
If you are an RDN looking for a challenging and rewarding career path, this position with the Veterans Health Administration provides an exceptional opportunity to serve our nation's heroes. Apply today to start your journey with the VHA.
Why This Dietitian (Clinical) Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served our nation by joining the Veterans Health Administration as a Clinical Dietitian in Toms River, New Jersey.
Dietitian (Clinical) Job Overview
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is seeking a dedicated and skilled Registered Dietitian to provide high-quality medical nutrition therapy to Veterans. In this role, you will act as a key member of the clinical team, performing comprehensive nutritional assessments and implementing evidence-based care plans tailored to individual patient needs.
Requirements for Dietitian (Clinical)
- United States Citizenship
- Registration as a Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) or Registered Dietitian (RD) with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)
- Proficiency in spoken and written English
- Compliance with seasonal influenza vaccination program requirements
- Completion of a 1-year or 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Dietitian (Clinical)
- One year of professional clinical dietetics experience equivalent to the GS-9 grade level
- Expertise in Nutrition Care Process (NCP) including assessment, diagnosis, and intervention
- Ability to analyze data for performance improvement initiatives
- Strong collaboration skills with food service and multidisciplinary clinical teams
- Proficiency in virtual care technology and electronic health record documentation
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance plans
- ✓Generous paid time off and federal holidays
- ✓Federal retirement benefits including FERS
- ✓Thrift Savings Plan (401k equivalent)
- ✓Professional development and training opportunities
💡 How to Apply Dietitian (Clinical) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dietitian (Clinical) Job
- Create or update your USAJOBS account
- Prepare your resume using the VA-specific Clinical Resume template
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire
- Upload required documents, including RDN credentials and transcripts
- Submit your application package before the closing date of September 1, 2026
💡 General Tips
- Use the specific VA Clinical Resume template provided to avoid delays in processing.
- Be detailed and specific when describing your clinical experience; do not assume the reviewer understands your daily tasks.
- Ensure all documentation, such as DD-214 or license verification, is uploaded before the deadline.
- Check your application status regularly through the USAJOBS portal.
- Carefully review the eligibility requirements before submitting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an RDN and an RD?
They are the same credential. The title was updated by the professional academy in 2014, but both are fully qualifying for this position.
Can I work remotely or via telework?
No, this is an onsite clinical position that requires physical presence in the facility to manage patient encounters.
Is a background check required?
Yes, all selected applicants must undergo a background and suitability investigation as part of the federal hiring process.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. We are dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in the military and their families. Joining our team means joining a community committed to compassionate, whole-health care.