Advance Your Career as a Clinical Dietitian with the VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to providing world-class healthcare to the men and women who have served our nation. We are currently seeking a highly motivated and compassionate Clinical Dietitian to join the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System (ECHCS) in Aurora, Colorado. This position is a unique opportunity to apply your expertise in medical nutrition therapy within a modern, multidisciplinary clinical environment.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Dietitian, your primary focus will be the comprehensive nutritional care of Veterans. Responsibilities include:
- Conducting nutrition-focused physical exams and assessments.
- Developing individualized Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) plans.
- Documenting interventions using the ADIME format.
- Coordinating with interdisciplinary teams to optimize patient outcomes.
- Providing education and counseling to Veterans and their caregivers.
Comparison Table: Candidate Requirements
| Feature | GS-07/09 Requirements | GS-11 Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Experience | Entry-level (or 1 year at lower grade) | 1 year experience as RDN |
| Education | Bachelor's/Master's | Bachelor's/Master's |
| Credentials | RDN/RD (Required) | RDN/RD (Required) |
| Core Focus | Competency in NCP | Advanced clinical skill & research interpretation |
Requirements
Applicants must be U.S. Citizens and must hold a valid Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) or Registered Dietitian (RD) credential from the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Proficient English skills and participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program are also mandatory.
Salary Overview
This position offers a competitive federal salary ranging from $56,262 to $108,251 per year, commensurate with qualifications and the assigned grade level (GS-7 through GS-11).
Benefits
- Comprehensive healthcare and insurance benefits.
- Federal retirement options.
- Ample paid leave accrual.
- A supportive professional culture dedicated to service.
Application Tips
- Standardized Resume: Use the requested VA Clinical Resume template.
- Clarity: Clearly detail your volunteer and paid experience.
- Deadlines: Ensure all documents are uploaded before the August 26, 2026, closing date.
Serving our Veterans is a profound responsibility and a rewarding path. If you are a dedicated dietitian eager to make a difference, we encourage you to apply to the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System today.
Why This Dietitian (Clinical) Job Matters
Make a lasting impact on the lives of those who served our country by joining the VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System as a Clinical Dietitian.
Dietitian (Clinical) Job Overview
The VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Clinical Dietitian to join our multidisciplinary team in Aurora, Colorado. This role is pivotal in providing evidence-based medical nutrition therapy to Veterans across various care settings, including surgical, rehabilitation, and intensive care units. You will collaborate with healthcare providers to develop patient-centered nutrition plans that improve outcomes and promote long-term wellness.
Requirements for Dietitian (Clinical)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Must be a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) or Registered Dietitian (RD) with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
- Completion of a background and security investigation
- Must pass a pre-placement physical examination
Preferred Qualifications for Dietitian (Clinical)
- Experience in Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT)
- Proficiency in ADIME (Assessment, Diagnosis, Intervention, Monitoring, and Evaluation) documentation
- Experience with enteral and parenteral nutrition support
- Skill in motivational interviewing techniques
- Experience participating in Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) rounds
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive health insurance options
- ✓Federal retirement savings plan (TSP)
- ✓Paid annual and sick leave
- ✓Opportunities for professional development and training
- ✓Work-life balance with a stable schedule
- ✓Potential for service credit toward annual leave accrual
💡 How to Apply Dietitian (Clinical) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dietitian (Clinical) Job
- Create or log into your USAJOBS account.
- Download the standard Clinical Resume Document from the VA Careers website.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Upload your resume, transcripts, and proof of your RDN/RD credential.
- Submit your application package by the closing date of August 26, 2026.
- Monitor your email for status updates and follow-up requests.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific and clear when describing your experience in your resume; do not rely on assumptions.
- Ensure your responses to the questionnaire match the experiences highlighted in your resume.
- Use the provided standard resume template to ensure all required information is included.
- Review your application for completeness before hitting submit, as missing documents may affect your eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I have not yet received my RDN credential?
The position generally requires the RDN/RD credential. However, there are limited exceptions for GS-07 and GS-09 levels for non-credentialed dietitians who meet specific academic and internship requirements. Please review the full announcement for details.
Is relocation assistance provided for this position?
No, relocation or recruitment incentives are not authorized for this vacancy.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System provides integrated, patient-centered care. Located on a state-of-the-art campus in Aurora, our facility is at the forefront of clinical research, education, and technology. We believe in balancing professional complexity with a high quality of life, making the Denver Metro area an ideal location for clinicians looking to build a meaningful career.