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Dietitian skills for your resume and career

Updated January 8, 2025

4 min read

Quoted Experts

Tara Miltenberger,

Natalie Cooke PhD, RDN

Below we've compiled a list of the most critical dietitian skills. We ranked the top skills for dietitians based on the percentage of resumes they appeared on. For example, 38.9% of dietitian resumes contained patients as a skill. Continue reading to find out what skills a dietitian needs to be successful in the workplace.

15 dietitian skills for your resume and career

1. Patients

Here's how dietitians use patients:

Provided Medical Nutrition Therapy and nutrition counseling to patients with various medical conditions while overseeing Registered Dietitian Staff and Office Coordinator.
Follow nutritional status of oncology patients throughout chemotherapy treatments, making recommendations to help maintain/improve nutritional status.

2. Medical Nutrition Therapy

Here's how dietitians use medical nutrition therapy:

Mentor dietetic interns; Therapeutic medical nutrition therapy sessions; Perform comprehensive nutrition assessments; Dynamic nutritional bulletin board displays
Dedicated dietitian with extensive experience in the clinical setting, focused on evidence-based practice for medical nutrition therapy interventions.

3. Rehabilitation

Here's how dietitians use rehabilitation:

Provided coverage for dietitians on pediatric pulmonary, gastrointestinal, cardiology oncology, and physical rehabilitation services.
Provided nutrition counseling to outpatients, cardiac rehabilitation patients, inpatients and diabetes and oncology clinic patients.

4. Patient Education

Here's how dietitians use patient education:

Provided inpatient and outpatient education on various complicated and uncomplicated medical disease states and nutritional risk's.
Care included reviewing labs, patient education, and recommendations on medication alterations as needed.

5. Nutrition Services

Nutritionists and dieticians' nutrition services refer to dietary instructions, counseling, and recommendations offered to patients to improve their health.

Here's how dietitians use nutrition services:

Provide nutrition services to an adult inpatient psychiatric unit and a geriatric inpatient psychiatric unit.
Promoted awareness of hospital nutrition services to community through outreach health promotion lectures.

6. Lab Results

Lab results are results gotten from scientific or medical procedures, tests, or experiments carried out in a standard laboratory by lab scientists. The results are well detailed indicating every aspect of the tests carried out. Lab results vary depending on whether it's a medical test carried out on samples from the human body or a scientific test carried out on chemical samples.

Here's how dietitians use lab results:

Collaborate regularly with physicians to provide recommendations regarding assigned patients' lab results, such as mineral and bone management.
Evaluate monthly lab results and provide detailed nutrition education to patients and family members based upon their specific conditions.

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7. Diabetes

Diabetes refers to a disease of uncontrolled sugar levels in the body.

Here's how dietitians use diabetes:

Calculated appropriate carbohydrate servings for clients participating in group diabetes classes and also conducted outpatient counseling sessions.
Implemented monthly diabetes support groups* Provided yearly food safety training for senior participants and kitchen volunteers.

Select Skills To Add To Your Resume

Patients

Medical Nutrition Therapy

Rehabilitation

Patient Education

Nutrition Services

Lab Results

8. QAPI

Here's how dietitians use qapi:

Developed QAPI goals and served as member of Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) Team.
Participate in Quality Assessment and Performance Improvement (QAPI) meetings and patient rounds.

9. Nutrition Support

Here's how dietitians use nutrition support:

Provided comprehensive nutrition assessment and education to inpatients in an acute care setting with a focus on critical care/nutrition support patients.
Provided Nutrition Support and Counseling for Oncology Patients undergoing Chemotherapy, Radiation Therapy, and Surgery.

10. Anemia

Anemia is a kind of medical condition where a person lacks healthy red blood cells that carry oxygen to a body's tissues and organs, making a person feel weak and tired. Although the symptoms and signs of anemia can depend on its underlying cause, it may include fatigue, yellowish or pale skin, lightheadedness and dizziness, irregular heartbeats, chest pains, and cold hands and feet.

Here's how dietitians use anemia:

Function as Mineral and Bone Disorder Specialist and participate in Anemia Management.
Participate in anemia management as needed.

11. Home Health

Here's how dietitians use home health:

Developed and maintained long-term relationships with physicians, home health agencies and hospital entities
Developed nutritional assessment tool and performs assessments and counseling to patients in home health setting.

12. Nutritional Risk

Here's how dietitians use nutritional risk:

Interview and certify WIC Program applicants to determine eligibility based on defined nutritional risk criteria increasing monthly participant goal.
Provide recommendations on how to reduce nutritional risk and minimize incidence of malnutrition.

13. Therapeutic Diets

Here's how dietitians use therapeutic diets:

Maintain credentials and continuing education specific to my interest in sports nutrition and therapeutic diets.
Provided outpatient nutritional counseling; including cardiac, diabetic, prenatal and other therapeutic diets.

14. Nutritional Supplements

Here's how dietitians use nutritional supplements:

Initiate individualized counseling for patients or families regarding nutritional needs, recommending therapeutic nutrient modifications, nutritional supplements and binders.
Provide assistance to patients who requiring nutritional supplements and modular proteins to improve their nutritional status.

15. Compassion

Here's how dietitians use compassion:

Exhibited patience and compassion to counsel clients from diverse backgrounds with a wide variety of nutritional issues.
Awarded CARES Award 2014 Compassion, Accountability, Respect, Enthusiasm, Service

12 Dietitian Resume Examples

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Stephen Alexander Dietitian Contact Information Atlanta, GA (400) 555-5220 salexander@example.com Skills • Esrd • Public Health • Lab Results • Data Collection • WIC • Nutrition Services • Calorimetry • Therapeutic Menus • Sports Nutrition • Safety Audits Employment History Dietitian 2018 - Present Healthcare Services Group Atlanta, GA • Provided oversight and guidance to the Food Services Director regarding food services operations. • Review and make recommendations for an ongoing quality assurance program for the Food Services Department. • Assure completion of the healthcare record; and accurate submission of MDS and RAPS for each resident in a timely manner. Public Health Dietitian 2016 - 2018 Healthcare Services Group Atlanta, GA • Provided oversight and guidance to the Food Services Director regarding food services operations. • Provide support during State Surveys; MDS documentation; Maintain positive relationships with residents, families and staff members • Assure completion of the healthcare record; and accurate submission of MDS and RAPS for each resident in a timely manner. • Function in a lead capacity in the absence of the Nutrition Program Manager. Outpatient Dietitian 2015 - 2016 Purdue University West Lafayette, IN • Serve as an educator of healthy lifestyles and provide clients with access to an array of additional public health services. • Evaluated patient participation, progress and areas for needed review using the nutrition care process. • Involved in regulatory committee preparation including preparation for JCAHO Advanced Certification in Heart Failure and Diabetes. • Participated in marketing the Diabetes Care Unit to the community, targeting 50,000 people. • Spearheaded multidisciplinary Diabetes Education Program, accelerating patient enrollment and enhancing revenue. Education Master's Degree Dietetics 2014 - 2015 Purdue University West Lafayette, IN Bachelor's Degree Dietetics 2011 - 2014 West Chester University of Pennsylvania West Chester, PA


Ronald Webb Dietitian Contact Info San Diego, CA (580) 555-7394 rwebb@example.com Skills Kidney DiseaseFood ServiceComputer SystemSpcaFood PreparationBehavioral IssuesInfantCrisis InterventionICUCommunity Nutrition Education Employment History Dietitian 2019 - Present Private Practice San Diego, CA • Conduct nutrition consults for patients diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, diabetes and CVD. • Conduct nutrition classes for cardiac rehab patients; provide education on therapeutic diets and food safety for the foodservice employees. Dietitian 2018 - 2019 WIC San Diego, CA • Conducted initial screening of clients, for admission to WIC programs. • Developed individual care plans for WIC participants. Diet Counselor 2016 - 2018 Boys & Girls Club Chicago, IL • Coordinated daily activities for the children Directed them to their designated classes Engaged with and mentored students in the program • Assist my counselor, supervise children, and participate in daily activities with the kids. • Acted as a role model for clients by exhibiting positive behaviors. Education Master's Degree Dietetics 2015 - 2016 Northern Illinois University DeKalb, IL Bachelor's Degree Dietetics 2012 - 2015 University of Rhode Island Kingston, RI


Cheryl Hughes Dietitian Tuscaloosa, AL chughes@example.com (680) 555-6692 Experience Dietitian 2017 - Present DCH Health SystemTuscaloosa, AL • Prepared and taught community diabetes and cardiac nutrition education classes. • Worked as part of an interdisciplinary team to provide best patient care. • Created educational materials for patients and staff, patient care policies, and formula recipes. • Educate patients on a variety of diets for medical issues including Diabetes, CHF, HTN, ESRD, etc. Registered Dietitian 2012 - 2017 DCH Health SystemTuscaloosa, AL • Worked with a multidisciplinary team to collaborate in patient care. • Provided nursing and dietary staff training to improve patient care and outcomes. • Attend and actively participate in QAPI meetings. • Developed monthly nutrition classes for cardiac rehab patients in the Cardiac Rehab program. • Provide direct patient care as an RN and nutrition education to patients as an RD. Dietician 2010 - 2012 DCH Health SystemTuscaloosa, AL • Interviewed patients, family members and other care providers to develop patient care plans. • Led performance improvement/Cost Initiative: Included chairing the task force for improved food service efficiency. • Standardized purchasing, improved efficiency in food preparation, began recycling and waste reduction plan. • Coordinate bariatric patient care with medical staff and surgeons. Skills Cooking Demonstrations Facility Open Communication Group Homes Special Diets Medical Records Disease Prevention Esrd State Regulations Food Service Education Master's Degree Food And Nutrition 2009 - 2010 The University of AlabamaTuscaloosa, AL Bachelor's Degree Food And Nutrition 2006 - 2009 University of FloridaGainesville, FL


Janice Hill Dietitian Employment History Dietitian 2020 - Present YMCA of Greater IndianapolisIndianapolis, IN • Provided inpatient care for a 243-bed tertiary teaching medical center and managed medical nutrition therapy for a 16-bed dialysis unit. • Educate participants in group and individual sessions regarding food safety, breastfeeding, infant feeding, special diets (i.e. • Assessed and maintained the medical nutrition therapy of hemodialysis patients Educated patients on diet and lab values related to kidney disease Public Health Dietitian 2016 - 2020 Indiana University NorthwestIndianapolis, IN • Researched and worked on PowerPoints for cultural and religious diversity in Mississippi. • Key member of multidisciplinary family/patient care meetings. • Assisted the safety manager with safety training, reviewing chemical MSDSs, translating documents and ISO14001 audit. WIC Site Coordinator 2013 - 2016 YMCA of Greater IndianapolisIndianapolis, IN • Performed customer service along with auditing for Accenture and OIG. • Provided food service to children. • Administered Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) nutritional program under federal contract. Education Master's Degree Dietetics 2012 - 2013 University of AkronAkron, OH Bachelor's Degree Food And Nutrition 2009 - 2012 Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State UniversityBlacksburg, VA Contact Information Indianapolis, IN (510) 555-4691 jhill@example.com Skills Technical Assistance Public Health WIC High Risk Clients Lab Results Oncology Nutrition Programs Disease Conditions Nutritional Issues Bereavement Services


Albert Torres Dietitian Baltimore, MD (920) 555-2552 atorres@example.com Skills Food Service Nutrition Care Process Meal Plans Food Preparation Nutrition Services Plan Menus Disease Management Special Diets Food Allergies Storage Areas Employment History Dietitian 2016 - Present Genesis HealthCareBaltimore, MD • Maintain budgetary compliance to Genesis Healthcare company goal of 15% of less house wide use of nutritional supplements. • Planned, organized and monitored quality assurance for nutrition programs. • Experienced in texture modified diets, TPN, and tube feeding. • Experience covering the burn and neuro ICU units at Detroit Receiving Hospital (DMC facilities). • Served adult to geriatric patient populations with diagnoses ranging from chronic kidney disease, end stage renal disease, and diabetes. Community Dietitian 2011 - 2016 Genesis HealthCareBaltimore, MD • Utilize the ADA's Nutrition Care Process to provide high quality patient care to an average of 20 patients per day. • Developed discharge diabetes education policy and teaching protocol with Nursing Education department. • Created diabetes education print materials on portion sizes and a healthy plate. • Established standard operating procedures and provided daily patient care. Nutrition Technician (Part-Time) 2008 - 2010 Sears HoldingsCollege Station, TX • summer job/part-time job) Oil change Mounting/demounting tires Flat tire repair Tire rotation test/ charging /replacing battery friendly and knowledgeable customer service • Installed FTTH, DSL, and wireless internet connections. Education Master's Degree Dietetics 2010 - 2011 University of DelawareNewark, DE Bachelor's Degree Nutrition Science 2007 - 2010 Texas A&M UniversityCollege Station, TX


Jean Watson Dietitian Columbia, MO (800) 555-2288 jwatson@example.com Experience: Dietitian Hy-Vee Columbia, MO 2020 - Present • Group nutrition classes A. Diabetes education A. • Increased visibility to physicians and consumers as resource for diabetes and nutrition expertise. Dietetic Internship Hy-Vee Columbia, MO 2019 - 2020 • Represented Hy-Vee at diabetes and health fairs, wellness events and public speaking engagements. • Increased visibility to physicians and consumers as resource for diabetes and nutrition expertise. • Organize lessons plans for group diabetic and gluten free classes. • Give store tours demonstrating healthy food choices and meal plans. • Created recipes for use in the school lunch menu using foods available through USDA Farm to School program. Diet Counselor Ranch Hope Newark, DE 2017 - 2019 • Create and implement individual treatment plans for youth with substance use related issues. • Maintained open communication with home programs and supplemental services. Skills • Pediatrics • Blood Pressure • Nursing Homes • ICU • Food Service • Esrd • CPR • Clinical Functions • Kidney Disease • Special Diets Education: Master's Degree University of Delaware Newark, DE 2016 - 2017 • Major: Dietetics Bachelor's Degree Montclair State University Montclair, NJ 2013 - 2016 • Major: Nutrition Science


Walter Wallace Dietitian Alexandria, VA (460) 555-6046 wwallace@example.com Experience: 2011 - Present Dietitian / Nutrition Service Co / Alexandria, VA • Participated in weekly interdisciplinary patient care meetings. • Provided Medical Nutrition Therapy to Hematology and Oncology inpatients and outpatients. • Participated in Medical Oncology and Hematology Rounds. • Monitored tray line, tray temperatures and tray accuracy on a daily basis. • Assisted clinic MD providing a diabetes clinic once a month. • Served as Food Service Director (FSD) in the absence of FSD to ensure the nutrition department run smoothly. 2002 - 2011 Clinical Dietitian / MORRISON RESTAURANTS / Washington, DC • Communicated with facility team members via patient care conference including telephone, written, and electronic communication. • Served as Nutritional Representative for assigned floor rounds, and ICU Grand Rounds weekly. • Attended scheduled rounds with interdisciplinary team members to discuss individual patient care and needs prior to discharge. • Act as a resource for evidenced based nutrition practice and collaborate with interdisciplinary team to optimize patient care and outcomes. 1997 - 2002 Dietician / Sodexo Operations / New York, NY • Executed daily food service and clinical operations when food service manager position vacancy. • Committed to provide quality food service and ability to manage individualized diet plans. • Ensured institutional compliance to all food service and Joint Commission regulations related to nutritional programs for ambulatory and infirmed populations. • Worked with a multidisciplinary team to collaborate in patient care. Skills: CMS, TPN, Patient Care, Acute Care, Public Health, Menu Planning, Special Diets, Sports Nutrition, Medical Records, Treatment Plans Education: 1996 - 1997 Master's Degree Dietetics / University of Delaware / Newark, DE 1993 - 1996 Bachelor's Degree Food And Nutrition / Pennsylvania State University / Main, PA


Joshua Mason Dietitian Ithaca, NY \| (580) 555-5305 \| jmason@example.com Work Experience Dietitian, Cortland Regional Medical Center - Ithaca, NY 2018 - Present Conduct nutrition assessments and instruct cliental on diets per MNT-American Diabetes Association (ADA) guidelines. Perform nutrition assessments and develop individualized patient care plans and in-patient diet education. Document care in EMR using the nutrition care process. Analyzed monthly and weekly reports and statistics and made recommendations for patient care as well as service improvements. Dietitian, Cortland Regional Medical Center - Ithaca, NY 2016 - 2018 Coordinate with medical team to provide nutritional interventions for optimum patient care Gained valuable insight in various areas of Dietetics in clinical, community and food service settings. WIC Site Coordinator, SUNY Cortland - Ithaca, NY 2011 - 2016 Developed semiannual/annual district WIC services Plan by referencing federal/state regulations. Developed patient care plans, including assessments, prescribed doctor's orders and evaluations. Conducted WIC Nutrition Assessments and made referrals and provided nutrition education based on assessment data. Skills Study Protocol, WIC, Action Plans, Community Organizations, Lab Results, Diet Office Personnel, Eligible Clients, Menu Planning, Aspen, Assessment Tools Education Master's Degree Food And Nutrition 2010 - 2011 Cornell University - Ithaca, NY Bachelor's Degree Nutrition Science 2007 - 2010 Pennsylvania State University - Main, PA


Elizabeth Hayes Dietitian Fort Worth, TX (230) 555-5282 ehayes@example.com Experience Dietitian, Kindred Healthcare, Fort Worth, TX 2020 - Present • Monitored for hydration and skin concerns; participated in interdisciplinary approaches for patient care. • Interpreted federal and state regulations to monitor compliance with the food service and sanitation regulations . • Educate patients on a variety of diets for medical issues including Diabetes, CHF, HTN, ESRD, etc. • Assess labs monthly for patients that may qualify for particular nutritional supplements or nutritional support (IDPN/IPN). Research Dietitian, Kindred Healthcare, Fort Worth, TX 2010 - 2020 • Complete nutrition assessments, MDS assessments, care plans, CAAs, as required. • Interpreted federal and state regulations to monitor compliance with the food service and sanitation regulations . • Analyzed school food service menus for specific nutrients for study protocol. • Attended department meetings and participated in patient care discussions about treatment plans and follow-up. • Assess patient's knowledge of diet and kidney disease and provide education to patient and/or caregiver. • Provided MNT and DSME to patients participating in Cardiac Rehabilitation, Diabetes Resource Institute, and Cholesterol Management Clinic. Wellness Coordinator, YMCA of Greater Houston, Kingston, RI 1998 - 2007 • Created and taught Office Yoga classes. • Point communication person between the Committee on Clinical Investigations and the General Clinical Research Center. • Provided advice to the project management on cross-cultural dynamics affecting communication between the parties. • Utilize computerized inventory system (IMMS) to reorder stock and non-stock supplies as well as scheduled emergency cases, • Booked travel arrangements for out of state candidates and new hires. • Manage the health care of all residents, including the dissemination of information to families and staff. Skills • Study Protocol • Nutritional Supplements • Diabetes • Counsel • Diet Plans • Promotional Materials • Wellness Services • Public Health • Nutrition Care Process • Data Collection Education 2007 - 2010 Doctoral Degree Dietetics, New York University New York, NY 1997 - 1998 Master's Degree Dietetics, University of Rhode Island Kingston, RI 1994 - 1997 Bachelor's Degree Food And Nutrition, Johnson & Wales University Providence, RI


Jeremy Hudson Dietitian New York, NY \| (530) 555-5396 \| jhudson@example.com Employment History: Private Practice - New York, NY 2019 - Present Dietitian • Conduct in-services and meal rounds and interview clients to help improve nutritional status. • Created and hosted television segments geared towards diabetes awareness and education. • Conducted the in-service Medical Nutrition Therapy in the Diabetes Management for a multidisciplinary team as part of a continuing education program. • Completed additional specialty rotations in nutrition support, intensive care nursery, pediatrics, and oncology. Kindred Healthcare - Indianapolis, IN 2018 - 2019 Outpatient Dietitian • Attend interdisciplinary patient care team meetings. • Presented in-services to diet office bi-annually Assisted inpatient dietitians as needed. • Provide MNT for patients with ESRD on HD. • Delivered group support group for oncology patients. YMCA of Greater Indianapolis - Indianapolis, IN 2008 - 2018 WIC Site Coordinator • Assist families in identifying community resources, formal and informal support systems. • Monitored and approved payroll for supervised staff. • Referred WIC participants to nutrition, health, and social services to which they may qualify. • Manage daily activities before and after school for up to 30 children. Skills: High Risk, Study Protocol, Bariatric, Healthcare, Community Nutrition Education, Health Education, Special Diets, In-Service Training, Annual Evaluations, Patient Care Education: University of Connecticut - Mansfield, CT 2007 - 2008 Master's Degree Nutrition Science University of Rhode Island - Kingston, RI 2004 - 2007 Bachelor's Degree Dietetics


Donna Gardner Dietitian phone(860) 555-9090 addressMilwaukee, WI emaildgardner@example.com Experience 2012 - Present Dietitian Healthcare Services Group · Milwaukee, WI • Provide support during State Surveys; MDS documentation; Maintain positive relationships with residents, families and staff members • Assure completion of the healthcare record; and accurate submission of MDS and RAPS for each resident in a timely manner. 2006 - 2012 Dietitian WIC · Chicago, IL • Provided dietary and breastfeeding education for WIC participants in Spanish and English. • Provided in-service training for nursing and food service staff. • Interview, counsel and educate clients on topics pertaining to breastfeeding, formula feeding, and feeding practices for children. • Assist the WIC Coordinator to provide clinical supervision and guidance to the WIC team. • Provided nutrition counseling to participants and mothers on the WIC program. 1996 - 2006 Community Dietitian Healthcare Services Group · Milwaukee, WI • Monitored kitchen safety and sanitation.Kept nutrition section of MDS current and up to date for all residents. • Attend care plan meetings for all residents and fill out care plans in accordance with MDS 3.0. • Provided dietary and breastfeeding education for WIC participants in Spanish and English. • Provided current information on nutrition and diet to county health department and staff and various health and social agencies. Skills • Kidney Disease • Disease Management • In-Service Training • Nutrition Services • Community Nutrition Education • Literature Reviews • Nutrition Programs • Adult Care • Meal Plans • Cooking Demonstrations Education 1995 - 1996 Master's Degree Dietetics Ball State University · Muncie, IN 1992 - 1995 Bachelor's Degree Dietetics University of Northern Colorado · Greeley, CO


Marie Ray Dietitian phone:(360) 555-5452 email:mray@example.com address:Newark, DE Employment History Dietitian 2020 - Present Fair Acres Geriatric Center · Newark, DE • Observed all departments of food service production from pulling ingredients in the ingredient control room to sanitation. • Counseled and educated clients in the WIC program emphasizing prenatal and pediatric nutrition including 3 weeks of staff relief. • Completed one- to six-week rotations in clinical, community, food service and management. • Provide nutrition and diabetes education to trial participants Outpatient Dietitian 2019 - 2020 Brooks Rehabilitation · Newark, DE • Review monthly lab results with each patient and/or caregiver and provide patient with a printed patient nutrition report. • Coordinate with medical team to provide nutritional interventions for optimum patient care • Work closely with medical team to provide best patient care possible. • Reviewed food service menus, services. New Member Educator 2014 - 2016 Intersections · Chantilly, VA • Prepare and update internal employee phone fax and emergency lists and distribute to appropriate personnel. • Provide world class customer service to PayPal's top and new customers in an inbound setting. • Trade Shows - model room * Product knowledge education * Responsible for scheduling in salon classes • Developed a CPR tracking system to ensure compliance with annual staff training. Skills Customer Service Lesson Plans NIH Patient Care Sports Nutrition Nutrition Care Process Nutrition Services Public Health Special Diets Mental Health Education Doctoral Degree Dietetics 2016 - 2019 University of Delaware · Newark, DE Master's Degree Dietetics 2013 - 2014 New York University · New York, NY Bachelor's Degree Dietetics 2010 - 2013 New York University · New York, NY

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What skills help Dietitians find jobs?

Tell us what job you are looking for, we’ll show you what skills employers want.

What skills stand out on Dietitian resumes?

Tara Miltenberger

Dietetic Internship Director and Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Cedar Crest College

A career in dietetics demands competence in critical thinking, exceptional communication skills, ethical integrity, and adaptability. I believe that employers are going to look for more technical skills moving forward. Dietitians must highlight proficiency in basic computer software systems (e.g., MS Office, file sharing, mainstream electronic medical record systems). Demonstrating technical skills tied to telemedicine systems, professional social media platforms, and creative software systems will stand out to hiring managers who seek innovative dietitians who are not just experts in nutrition but also want to propel our message to the public.

What soft skills should all Dietitians possess?

Natalie Cooke PhD, RDN

Assistant Professor and Director of Undergraduate Programs for Nutrition Science, North Carolina State University

In June 2020, the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities released two reports, one quantitative and one qualitative, on gaps in employability skills (https://www.aplu.org/news-and-media/News/aplu-releases-two-reports-on-gaps-in-employability-skills-and-workforce-preparedness-among-college-graduates). As the Executive Summary (https://www.aplu.org/library/from-academia-to-the-workforce-executive-summary/file) reports, the 11 skills that were identified as "critical growth areas" include: (1) understanding role in the workplace and having realistic career expectations, (2) recognizing and dealing constructively with conflict, (3) accepting and applying critique and direction in the workplace, (4) listening effectively, (5) communicating accurately and concisely, (6) realizing the effect of decisions, (7) building professional relationships, (8) navigating change and ambiguity, (9) identifying and analyzing problems, (10) transferring knowledge from one situation to another, and (11) asking good questions.

Additionally, critical thinking is an essential skill for nutrition science professionals, including being able to critically evaluate scientific literature about a topic to inform decision-making and information shared with the public. Nutrition scientists want to make sure that they are sharing information with the public that is based on research. Teamwork is also an essential skill needed in any setting, but especially in healthcare settings, where work is often collaborative with many members of the healthcare team. Similarly, in a research setting, interdisciplinary work is highly valued. Empathy is also essential for healthcare providers.

What hard/technical skills are most important for Dietitians?

Natalie Cooke PhD, RDN

Assistant Professor and Director of Undergraduate Programs for Nutrition Science, North Carolina State University

Different fields in healthcare will have competencies that they expect their professionals to have mastered. For example, a working group from the Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior created a list of Nutrition Educator Competencies for Promoting Healthy Individuals, Communities, and Food Systems (https://www.sneb.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Competencies_Page_21.pdf). These competencies are organized into ten categories: (1) Basic Food and Nutrition Knowledge; (2) Nutrition Across the Lifecycle; (3) Food Science; (4) Physical Activity; (5) Food and Nutrition Policy; (6) Agricultural Production and Food Systems; (7) Behavior and Education Theory; (8) Nutrition Education Program Design, Implementation, and Evaluation; (9) Written, Oral, and Social Media Communication; and (10) Nutrition Education Research Methods. A technical skill for a nutrition educator in the area of "Written, Oral, and Social Media Communication" is: "Engage and educate through simple, clear, and motivational language appropriate for diverse audiences." These technical or discipline-focused skills can be gained through engaging in internships and gaining work experience under the direction of nutrition educators and/or registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs).

One way to learn what hard/technical skills are required of jobs is to start looking at job descriptions years before planning to apply for a job. That way, a student can carefully select experiences to help develop those skills over time, making them a stronger applicant for the job they wish to apply for in the future.

What Dietitian skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?

Dr. Jeremy Akers Ph.D.

Dietetics, Graduate Program Director, James Madison University

Since you will be required to have a master's degree to sit for the RD exam in 2024, I would suggest thinking about pursuing a graduate degree.

Do you want to know more?

List of dietitian skills to add to your resume

The most important skills for a dietitian resume and required skills for a dietitian to have include:

Patients
Medical Nutrition Therapy
Rehabilitation
Patient Education
Nutrition Services
Lab Results
Diabetes
QAPI
Nutrition Support
Anemia
Home Health
Nutritional Risk
Therapeutic Diets
Nutritional Supplements
Compassion
Allergies
Dietetic Interns

Diet Restrictions
Weight Loss
Culinary
Weight Management
ESRD
Nutrition Programs
Calculation
Health Fairs
Tube Feedings
Eating Disorders
Food Safety
Team Work
TPN
Kidney Disease
Enteral Nutrition
Comprehensive Nutrition Assessments
ICU

Nutrition Education Materials
JCAHO
Food Allergies
Menu Planning
WIC
Sports Nutrition
MDS
CMS
Renal Disease
Diet Education
GI
Lab Values
IV
Hypertension
Tertiary Care

Updated January 8, 2025

Zippia Team

Editorial Staff

The Zippia Research Team has spent countless hours reviewing resumes, job postings, and government data to determine what goes into getting a job in each phase of life. Professional writers and data scientists comprise the Zippia Research Team.

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Dietitian Skills

Updated January 8, 2025

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