Launch Your Career as a Clinical Dietitian at the James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center
Are you a Registered Dietitian looking to make a lasting impact? The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is offering a challenging and rewarding career opportunity for a Clinical Dietitian at the James E. Van Zandt Veterans' Administration Medical Center in Altoona, Pennsylvania. This position is perfect for professionals dedicated to providing holistic, patient-centered care to the men and women who have served our country.
Job Responsibilities
As a Clinical Dietitian, your work will be central to the health of our Veteran population. You will:
- Conduct Nutrition Assessments: Utilize the Nutrition Care Process (NCP) to evaluate patients, including nutrition-focused physical exams.
- Develop Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT): Design and monitor tailored diet prescriptions to manage health conditions.
- Virtual Care Coordination: Leverage modern technology to deliver nutrition education and counseling to Veterans remotely.
- Team Collaboration: Partner with doctors, nurses, and food operations staff to ensure an integrated approach to patient wellness.
Requirements
You must be a U.S. citizen and meet the following credentials:
- RDN/RD Credential: Must be registered with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
- Education: A bachelor's or advanced degree from a regionally accredited institution.
- Accredited Training: Completion of an ACEND-accredited supervised practice program.
| Position Level | Key Requirement |
|---|---|
| GS-07 | Entry level, basic education and credentialing requirements. |
| GS-09 | Requires 1 year of experience at GS-7 or a Master's degree. |
| GS-11 | Requires 1 year of experience at GS-9 level. |
Salary and Benefits Overview
The annual salary range for this position is $52,986 to $101,947, depending on grade level and experience. Beyond the base salary, employees enjoy a robust federal benefits package, including:
- Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP): Get help paying down your student loans (up to $200,000).
- Comprehensive Health Insurance: Top-tier medical, dental, and vision coverage.
- Retirement Planning: Generous pension and 401(k)-style Thrift Savings Plan.
- Work-Life Balance: Generous annual and sick leave accrual policies.
How to Apply
To be considered, you must submit a complete application package via the USAJOBS portal. Ensure your resume highlights your clinical competencies, including any volunteer experience that demonstrates your skills. Be sure to upload your transcripts and any relevant certifications. The window for applications is open until November 2, 2026.
Becoming a VA Clinical Dietitian is more than just a job; it is a commitment to excellence and service. If you are ready to advance your career while supporting America’s heroes in a beautiful Pennsylvania setting, we encourage you to apply today. Your expertise in nutrition can transform lives.
Why This Dietitian - Clinical Job Matters
Advance your clinical career while directly impacting the wellness of our nation's heroes. Join the James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center as a Clinical Dietitian and become a vital part of a team dedicated to holistic, patient-centered nutrition care.
Dietitian - Clinical Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a dedicated Clinical Dietitian to join the James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center in Altoona, Pennsylvania. In this role, you will provide essential nutrition care in an outpatient setting, utilizing evidence-based practices to improve health outcomes for Veterans. You will collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, develop personalized nutrition plans, and leverage virtual care technology to expand the reach of our services. This position offers a unique opportunity to grow your clinical skills within a modern, mission-driven healthcare facility.
Requirements for Dietitian - Clinical
- U.S. Citizenship (unless specific recruitment conditions are met).
- Must hold a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) or Registered Dietitian (RD) credential from the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).
- Must possess a bachelor's degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution.
- Completion of an ACEND-accredited experiential or supervised practice program.
- Proficiency in spoken and written English.
- Ability to pass a background security investigation.
- Participation in the annual seasonal influenza vaccination program is mandatory.
Preferred Qualifications for Dietitian - Clinical
- Prior experience working in an outpatient nutrition setting.
- Demonstrated ability to utilize virtual care technology for patient consultations.
- Experience in data collection for performance improvement initiatives.
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) eligibility (up to $200,000 for qualifying student loans).
- ✓Comprehensive federal health insurance and retirement plans.
- ✓Paid annual leave and sick leave.
- ✓Paid federal holidays.
- ✓Opportunities for professional growth and continuing education.
- ✓Access to state-of-the-art medical facility resources.
💡 How to Apply Dietitian - Clinical Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dietitian - Clinical Job
- Create or log in to your account on the official USAJOBS portal.
- Prepare a detailed long-form resume or CV, ensuring all relevant experience is clearly documented.
- Gather supporting documents such as college transcripts, professional licenses, and proof of Veterans' preference if applicable.
- Complete the mandatory occupational questionnaire online.
- Submit your full application package before the closing date of November 2, 2026.
- Monitor your email for status updates and potential interview invitations.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume explicitly details your clinical experience, including paid and volunteer roles.
- Do not assume the hiring team knows your background; be specific about your duties and accomplishments.
- Double-check that all required documents are attached before submission to avoid disqualification.
- If you are a Veteran, ensure your DD-214 is current and clearly displays your service dates and discharge status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position eligible for loan repayment?
Yes, this role is eligible for the Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP), which may provide reimbursement for student loans up to $200,000, depending on eligibility.
What is the work schedule for this position?
The typical schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Can I apply if I am not currently a Veteran?
Yes, this position is open to the public, as well as current federal employees and Veterans.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is the largest integrated health care system in the United States. Our mission is to fulfill President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in the military. At the James E. Van Zandt VA Medical Center, we take pride in offering a comprehensive range of health services nestled in the scenic Allegheny Mountains. Our facility serves as a hub of excellence, prioritizing compassionate care, community collaboration, and innovation in health outcomes.