Advancing Clinical Excellence: The Role of an Advanced Practice Dietitian at the Phoenix VA
Are you a dedicated nutrition professional looking to transition into a role that combines clinical expertise with leadership? The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is currently seeking a highly qualified Advanced Level Practice Dietitian to join the team at the Phoenix VA Medical Center. This position is perfect for those who are ready to influence patient care at a high level and contribute to the health and well-being of American Veterans.
Job Responsibilities
As an Advanced Level Practice Dietitian, you are more than just a nutrition counselor. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Clinical Leadership: Leading multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement nutrition-related services and protocols.
- Evidence-Based Practice: Utilizing the Nutrition Care Process (NCP) and current research to develop individualized, highly effective interventions.
- Educational Outreach: Serving as a subject matter expert, training medical students, interns, and peers on the latest nutrition therapies.
- Research & Performance Improvement: Leading studies to monitor clinical benchmarks and improve the quality of nutritional care throughout the facility.
- Policy Development: Creating standard operating procedures that align with national VA health initiatives.
Requirements for Success
To be considered for this GS-12 position, applicants must meet several rigorous standards, including:
- Credentials: Active RDN or RD registration with the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
- Experience: At least one year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade level.
- Certification: A nationally recognized advanced practice certification (e.g., Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition, Certified Nutrition Support Clinician).
- Citizenship: U.S. Citizenship is mandatory for this position.
| Feature | Requirement Status |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | U.S. Citizen Required |
| Education | ACEND Accredited Program |
| Certification | Advanced Practice Required |
| Security Clearance | Not Required |
Salary and Benefits Overview
The position offers a competitive salary range of $93,629 to $121,720 per year. Beyond the salary, working for the federal government provides access to an array of benefits designed to support your work-life balance and long-term security, including federal health insurance and retirement plans.
How to Apply
- Prepare your documentation: Ensure your resume is detailed, long-form, and highlights your specific clinical achievements.
- Submit online: Use the official federal portal to complete the occupational questionnaire before the November 2, 2026, deadline.
- Monitor Status: Keep track of your application via your user account to respond quickly to requests for interviews.
If you are a driven RDN seeking to make a lasting impact on the lives of Veterans, this Advanced Level Practice Dietitian role at the Phoenix VA offers an unparalleled opportunity. Combine your passion for nutrition science with organizational leadership and help shape the future of whole-person care.
Why This Dietitian (Advanced Level Practice) Job Matters
Elevate your clinical career as an Advanced Level Practice Dietitian at the Phoenix VA, where your expertise directly shapes the health and well-being of those who served our nation.
Dietitian (Advanced Level Practice) Job Overview
The Veterans Health Administration is seeking a highly skilled Dietitian for an Advanced Level Practice role at the Phoenix VA Medical Center. In this pivotal position, you will lead nutrition-related initiatives, oversee complex medical nutrition care, and serve as a technical expert within the Food and Nutrition service. You will work within a Whole Health System model, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to implement evidence-based nutrition protocols that improve patient outcomes for our Veteran population.
Requirements for Dietitian (Advanced Level Practice)
- U.S. Citizenship
- Current registration as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) or Registered Dietitian (RD) with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR)
- Proficiency in written and spoken English
- One year of specialized experience at the next lower grade level
- Advanced practice certification from a nationally recognized body (e.g., Board Certified Specialist in Renal/Oncology/Gerontological Nutrition, Certified Nutrition Support Clinician)
- Completion of a 1-year or 2-year trial period as a condition of employment
Preferred Qualifications for Dietitian (Advanced Level Practice)
- Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition
- Certified Nutrition Support Clinician certification
- Demonstrated experience in team leadership and performance improvement study management
- Ability to present complex nutrition data to multidisciplinary healthcare groups
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Federal health insurance plans
- ✓Competitive salary within the GS-12 pay scale
- ✓Opportunities for annual leave accrual based on prior service
- ✓Comprehensive retirement programs
- ✓Access to VA career development and specialized training
- ✓Contribution to a mission-critical public service agency
💡 How to Apply Dietitian (Advanced Level Practice) Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Dietitian (Advanced Level Practice) Job
- Create or log in to your USAJOBS account.
- Review all required documents, including your CV, SF-50 (if applicable), and RDN certification.
- Complete the online occupational questionnaire.
- Submit your full application package before the deadline on November 2, 2026.
- Monitor your email for status notifications and potential interview requests.
💡 General Tips
- Ensure your resume includes detailed descriptions of your clinical nutrition experience, including volunteer work.
- Clearly link your advanced practice certification to the specific requirements of the role.
- Double-check that all required documents are legible and current to avoid disqualification.
- Follow all instructions regarding Veteran preference documentation if applicable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this Dietitian position?
This role centers on Advanced Level Practice, meaning you will go beyond standard care to lead nutrition initiatives, develop clinical policies, and mentor other staff members in a specialized healthcare setting.
Is this a remote or telework position?
No, this is an on-site position based at the Phoenix VA Medical Center.
Are there mandatory vaccinations for this role?
Yes, as a Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP), participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a condition of employment.
Job from Veterans Health Administration
The Veterans Health Administration is the largest integrated healthcare system in the United States. Its mission is to honor President Lincoln’s promise to care for those who have served in the military. At the Phoenix VA, this mission is fulfilled through a "Whole Health" system—a holistic approach that empowers Veterans to take charge of their health and well-being by building partnerships between patients and their healthcare providers.