Advance Your Career as a Clinical Dietitian with the VA

Are you a dedicated nutrition professional looking to transition into a career where your work directly honors and supports those who have served our country? The El Paso Veteran Affairs Health Care System is currently hiring a Clinical Dietitian in Las Cruces, New Mexico. This is a unique opportunity to join a multidisciplinary healthcare team, deliver evidence-based medical nutrition therapy, and play an integral role in improving the lives of our nation's Veterans.

Job Responsibilities

As a Clinical Dietitian, your responsibilities are comprehensive and essential to patient success. Key duties include:

Conducting detailed nutritional assessments using the Nutrition Care Process (NCP).
Developing and implementing customized Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT).
Documenting care plans and progress using the ADIME charting format.
Providing patient education on menu planning, food safety, and budgeting.
Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams, including physicians and food service staff, to optimize patient treatment plans.
Utilizing virtual technology to expand access to nutrition counseling.
Participating in performance improvement initiatives to ensure the highest standards of care.

Requirements

To be considered for this role, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is required.
Education: A bachelor's or higher degree from a U.S. regionally accredited institution or foreign equivalent.
Certification: Must be a Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
Supervised Practice: Completion of an ACEND-accredited experiential program.
Skillset: Proficiency in English and the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, high-standard healthcare environment.

Salary Overview

This position offers a competitive salary structure ranging from $50,460 to $97,087 per year, commensurate with your grade level (GS-7 to GS-11) and experience.

Grade Level	Key Focus
GS-7	Entry Level / Developmental
GS-9	Developmental / Intermediate
GS-11	Full Performance Level

Benefits

Working for the VA comes with significant benefits, including:

Accrual of annual and sick leave.
Opportunities for leave accrual credit based on prior federal or military service.
A fulfilling work-life balance within a stable federal system.
Access to professional growth and specialized training.

Application Tips

To stand out during the hiring process, ensure your resume is detailed. Do not simply list titles; clearly explain how your experience translates to clinical assessment, diagnosis, and intervention. If you are a veteran, be sure to provide all documentation required for preference. Verify that your documents—such as your transcript and certifications—are legible and attached to your application package.

If you are ready to make a significant impact on the health of Veterans, we encourage you to apply. The work you do today helps create a healthier future for those who have served. Take the next step in your career and apply through the USAJOBS portal today.

Why This Dietitian (Clinical) Job Matters

Transform lives through nutrition: Join our dedicated Clinical Dietitian team in Las Cruces and make a lasting impact on the health and wellness of our nation's heroes.

Dietitian (Clinical) Job Overview

The El Paso Veteran Affairs Health Care System is seeking a passionate Clinical Dietitian to join our team in Las Cruces, New Mexico. In this role, you will serve as a vital member of an interdisciplinary healthcare team, managing nutritional care for Veterans. You will develop, implement, and monitor medical nutrition therapy, conduct comprehensive nutrition assessments, and provide essential counseling to help improve patient outcomes. This position offers a unique opportunity to work in a collaborative, mission-driven environment where your clinical expertise directly contributes to the whole health of those who have served.

Requirements for Dietitian (Clinical)

U.S. Citizenship.
Registration as a Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
Bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution (or foreign equivalent verified by ACEND).
Completion of an ACEND-accredited supervised practice program.
Proficiency in written and spoken English.
Successful completion of a background/security investigation.
For male applicants born after 12/31/1959, Selective Service registration is required.
Requirement to participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program.

Preferred Qualifications for Dietitian (Clinical)

One year of professional outpatient experience.
One year of professional inpatient experience.
Certified Diabetic Educator status.
Formal training in motivational interviewing.

Federal Benefits & Perks

✓Competitive federal salary and benefits package.
✓Opportunities for annual leave accrual credit based on prior service.
✓Comprehensive health and wellness programs.
✓Supportive, mission-driven professional environment.
✓Opportunities for career advancement within the VA system.

💡 How to Apply Dietitian (Clinical) Job & Insider Tips

Application Steps for Dietitian (Clinical) Job

Create or log in to your account at USAJOBS.
Prepare a comprehensive, long-form resume or CV detailing your clinical experience.
Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
Upload required documentation, including transcripts, licenses, and veteran preference forms if applicable.
Review your application package for accuracy before the closing date.
Submit your application and monitor your status via the USAJOBS dashboard.

💡 General Tips

Be specific and clear in your resume regarding your clinical duties; do not leave the hiring team to make assumptions about your level of expertise.
Ensure your resume reflects all volunteer and paid experience relevant to the role.
Check the status of your application periodically through your USAJOBS account.
Ensure your contact information is up to date in the event that the hiring office reaches out for an interview.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply if I am not currently a Registered Dietitian?

Only applicants meeting the basic RDN/RD credentialing requirements are typically considered. However, exceptions exist for GS-07 and GS-09 levels under specific temporary appointment authorities; please review the full vacancy announcement for details regarding non-credentialed appointments.

Is this a remote or telework position?

No, this is an on-site clinical position and does not offer remote or telework options.

What is the trial period for this role?

New appointees are subject to a 1-year or 2-year trial period to evaluate performance and fitness for federal service.

Are there relocation incentives available?

No, relocation incentives are not authorized for this position.

Job from Veterans Health Administration

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is committed to fulfilling the promise to care for those who have served in the military. At the El Paso VA Health Care System, we pride ourselves on providing compassionate, whole-person care. Our facility in Las Cruces offers a vibrant working environment located in a region known for its rich culture, outdoor recreation, and community spirit.