Launch Your Career as a Clinical Dietitian with the VA
Are you a dedicated Registered Dietitian looking to make a meaningful impact? The Cleveland VA Medical Center is currently recruiting for a Clinical Dietitian to join their Nutrition and Food Service section. This position offers a unique opportunity to work within a premier national research center, providing high-quality, patient-centered care to those who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Dietitian, your day-to-day work will be both dynamic and essential. Key duties include:
- Nutrition Assessment: Conducting comprehensive evaluations using the Nutrition Care Process (NCP).
- Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT): Developing and implementing tailored MNT plans to address specific diagnoses.
- Patient Counseling: Providing education to Veterans and their families to support long-term health.
- Team Collaboration: Working alongside healthcare teams to monitor patient progress and adjust nutrition interventions.
- Performance Improvement: Utilizing data to improve quality and safety standards within the facility.
Requirements
To qualify for this position, candidates must meet specific criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a U.S. Citizen.
- Education: Bachelor’s or higher degree from an accredited institution.
- Certification: Must hold an RDN or RD credential from the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
- Vaccinations: Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
Grade Comparison Table
| Grade Level | Education/Experience Requirement | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| GS-07 | Basic Requirements | Developmental/Entry |
| GS-09 | 1 Year exp or Master's degree | Developmental |
| GS-11 | 1 Year exp at GS-09 level | Full Performance |
Salary and Benefits
This position offers a competitive salary range of $59,275 to $114,048 per year, depending on qualifications and grade level. Beyond the salary, employees receive a robust federal benefits package including health insurance, retirement planning, and generous leave accrual.
Application Tips
- Use the Template: Ensure you use the specific clinical resume template provided by the VA.
- Be Detailed: Clearly describe your past clinical work, including volunteer experience.
- Double-Check: Confirm all certifications and transcripts are attached before hitting submit.
If you are a committed healthcare professional, the VA offers an unparalleled environment to grow your career while giving back to the Veteran community. Apply today to begin your journey with the Cleveland VA Medical Center.
Why This Dietitian (Clinical) Job Matters
Transform lives through nutrition: Join the Cleveland VA Medical Center as a Clinical Dietitian and serve those who served our nation.
Dietitian (Clinical) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Clinical Dietitian to join the Nutrition and Food Service team at the Cleveland VA Medical Center. In this role, you will apply evidence-based nutrition practices to support Veterans' health, conduct comprehensive assessments, and collaborate with an interdisciplinary team to develop patient-centered wellness goals in a premier medical research hub.
Requirements for Dietitian (Clinical)
- U.S. Citizenship (exceptions apply for non-citizens per VA policy)
- Registration with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) or Registered Dietitian (RD)
- Bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited U.S. university or foreign equivalent
- Completion of an ACEND-accredited experiential/supervised practice program
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- Ability to pass a background and security investigation
- Completion of a 2-year trial period
Preferred Qualifications for Dietitian (Clinical)
- Master's degree in dietetics or a closely related field for GS-09 eligibility
- Proven clinical experience in nutrition assessment and medical nutrition therapy
- Demonstrated ability to use virtual care technologies for patient support
- Experience with performance improvement data and interdisciplinary collaboration
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and life insurance programs
- ✓Generous paid annual leave, sick leave, and federal holidays
- ✓Retirement savings via the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS)
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and clinical advancement
- ✓Access to state-of-the-art medical technology and research facilities
💡 How to Apply Dietitian (Clinical) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dietitian (Clinical) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account
- Review the full position questionnaire
- Prepare your resume and supporting documentation (Transcripts, CDR card, SF-50 if applicable)
- Download and complete the standard Clinical Resume document provided by the VA
- Submit your application and documentation online by 11:59 PM ET on the closing date
💡 General Tips
- Be specific in your resume; the hiring team cannot make assumptions about your past experience.
- Include both paid and unpaid/volunteer experience to demonstrate your competencies.
- Ensure your documentation is complete, including proof of credentials and education, to avoid disqualification.
- Use the provided VA resume template to ensure your application meets formatting requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary role of a Clinical Dietitian at the Cleveland VA?
You will serve in the Clinical Section of Nutrition and Food Service, performing comprehensive nutrition assessments and implementing medical nutrition therapy to improve outcomes for Veterans.
Can I apply if I don't have my RDN credential yet?
Non-credentialed dietitians may be eligible for a one-year temporary appointment at the GS-07 or GS-09 level if they meet all other academic and supervised practice requirements, though promotion is restricted until the RDN credential is obtained.
Is telework available for this role?
Yes, the position offers ad-hoc telework, though it is not a virtual-only position.
What is the trial period?
New employees are subject to a 2-year trial period to evaluate fitness for the position.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Providing compassionate care to Veterans is at the core of the VA mission. The Cleveland VA Medical Center serves as a major hub for medical research, innovation, and clinical excellence. Joining the VA means becoming part of a culture defined by the "I CARE" core values: Integrity, Commitment, Advocacy, Respect, and Excellence.