Clinical Dietitian Opportunities at St. Cloud VA Health Care System
The St. Cloud VA Health Care System is currently seeking passionate and highly skilled Clinical Dietitians to join our healthcare team. This is a unique opportunity to serve those who have served our nation, providing evidence-based nutrition care within a supportive and multidisciplinary environment. If you are a Registered Dietitian dedicated to improving patient outcomes through medical nutrition therapy, we invite you to explore this career-defining role.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Dietitian, you will function as a key member of the Nutrition and Food Services (NFS) team. Key duties include:
- Performing comprehensive nutrition assessments using the Nutrition Care Process (NCP).
- Designing and implementing tailored Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) plans.
- Calculating individualized nutrient requirements and monitoring patient progress.
- Providing patient education and counseling to improve long-term health outcomes.
- Documenting clinical interactions using the ADIME format.
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to optimize the dining experience and patient satisfaction.
Requirements
To be considered for this position, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- U.S. Citizenship.
- Valid RDN/RD credential from the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
- Bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited university.
- Completion of an ACEND-accredited supervised practice program.
- Proficiency in written and spoken English.
- Ability to pass a security background check.
Salary and Grade Overview
The position is open at various grade levels (GS-07 to GS-11) based on the candidate's professional experience and educational background. The annual salary range for this role is $55,012 to $105,845.
| Level | Experience Requirement | Education Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| GS-07 | Basic Requirements Only | Bachelor's Degree |
| GS-09 | 1 Year Experience at GS-7 | Master's Degree |
| GS-11 | 1 Year Experience at GS-9 | Advanced Practice/Experience |
Benefits
Working with the VA offers a robust benefits package, including:
- Comprehensive health and life insurance options.
- Federal pension contributions (FERS).
- Generous annual leave and sick leave accrual.
- Opportunities for continuous professional education.
- A mission-oriented workplace dedicated to Whole Health principles.
Application Tips
- Tailor Your Resume: Ensure that your experience directly addresses the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs) listed in the announcement.
- Include All Documentation: From your RDN credential to your university transcripts, missing documents can lead to your application being disqualified.
- Use the ADIME Format: When describing your clinical duties, emphasize your familiarity with the Assessment, Diagnosis, Intervention, Monitoring, and Evaluation format.
Join the St. Cloud VA Health Care System and contribute to a legacy of service. By combining clinical excellence with compassion, you will play a critical role in the health and well-being of America's Veterans. Apply today and take the next step in your career.
Why This Dietitian (Clinical) Job Matters
Transform lives through nutrition: Join the St. Cloud VA Health Care System as a Clinical Dietitian and empower our nation's heroes on their journey to Whole Health.
Dietitian (Clinical) Job Overview
The St. Cloud VA Health Care System is seeking a dedicated Clinical Dietitian to join our multidisciplinary team. In this role, you will provide comprehensive medical nutrition therapy, conduct detailed nutritional assessments, and collaborate with healthcare providers to develop individualized care plans for Veterans. You will play a vital role in our mission to provide compassionate, high-quality healthcare, utilizing evidence-based practices and virtual technology to improve patient outcomes across central Minnesota.
Requirements for Dietitian (Clinical)
- Must be a U.S. Citizen
- Must hold a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) or Registered Dietitian (RD) credential from the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Completion of a bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution
- Completion of an ACEND-accredited experiential or supervised practice program
- Selective Service registration for males born after 12/31/1959
- Ability to pass a background/security investigation
- Willingness to participate in the seasonal influenza vaccination program
Preferred Qualifications for Dietitian (Clinical)
- Experience in outpatient clinical care settings
- Advanced knowledge of managing specific disease states, including diabetes, cardiac, renal, and obesity
- Experience with oral nutrition support and complex nutrition therapy
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Competitive federal salary with annual leave accrual
- ✓Participation in the Federal Employees Health Benefits program
- ✓Comprehensive federal retirement benefits including FERS
- ✓Access to a vast network of professional development and training
- ✓Opportunity to make a tangible impact on Veteran health outcomes
- ✓Potential for recruitment or relocation incentives for highly qualified candidates
💡 How to Apply Dietitian (Clinical) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dietitian (Clinical) Job
- Create or log into your account on the USAJobs portal.
- Review the full vacancy announcement details and qualification standards.
- Prepare your long-form resume, transcripts, and relevant professional certifications.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire via the provided link.
- Submit your application and all required supporting documents before the closing date.
- Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview requests.
💡 General Tips
- Be specific: Use your resume to detail how your experience aligns with the required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs).
- Don't assume: Hiring managers cannot make assumptions about your previous experience; explicitly state your duties and accomplishments.
- Check your documents: Ensure your transcripts and licenses are legible and uploaded correctly to avoid delays.
- Follow formatting guidelines: Use the ADIME format when referencing your clinical charting experience.
- Submit early: Don't wait until the final hours on the closing date to avoid potential system bottlenecks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I do not have my RDN credential yet?
Yes, for GS-07 or GS-09 levels, you may be eligible under a temporary appointment if you have completed all educational and internship requirements, provided you obtain your credential within the allotted time.
What is the full performance level of this position?
The full performance level for this vacancy is GS-11, with hiring potential ranging from GS-07 through GS-11 depending on qualifications.
Is telework available for this role?
No, this specific position is not currently authorized for telework.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is dedicated to fulfilling President Lincoln's promise: "To care for those who have served in our nation's military and for their families, caregivers, and survivors." Since 1924, the St. Cloud VA Health Care System has provided exceptional medical services to Veterans across central Minnesota. Operating out of the main medical center in St. Cloud, alongside community-based clinics in Alexandria, Brainerd, and Montevideo, our organization empowers employees to practice within a 'Whole Health' model of care.