Dietary Aide

Position: Dietary Aide

Department: Dietary

Reports To: Dietary Director

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

General Purpose

The Dietary Aide assists with the preparation, service, and clean-up of meals for residents in a skilled nursing facility. This role supports the dietary department by ensuring residents receive nutritious, appealing meals in a clean and sanitary environment, while adhering to dietary guidelines, food safety, and infection control standards. The Dietary Aide contributes to residents' well-being through timely meal service and attentive care.

Responsibilities

Meal Preparation & Service

• Assist with meal preparation and plating according to standardized menus and diet orders.
• Deliver meals and beverages to resident rooms or dining areas in a timely and courteous manner.
• Serve food following portion control and sanitation guidelines.
• Follow instructions for special or therapeutic diets, including mechanical soft, diabetic, or low-sodium diets.

Dining & Sanitation Support

• Set up dining areas, including utensils, trays, condiments, and necessary supplies.
• Clean and sanitize food service areas, carts, dishes, and kitchen equipment after meals.
• Assist with receiving, labeling, and storing food and kitchen supplies.

Resident Support & Communication

• Report food shortages, resident complaints, or safety concerns to the supervisor.
• Maintain resident dignity, confidentiality, and respect during meal service.
• Practice good hand hygiene and adhere to infection prevention protocols.

Inventory & Teamwork

• Restock food items and supplies as directed.
• Work collaboratively with dietary staff to ensure efficient meal service and smooth kitchen operations.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous experience in food service, especially in healthcare or long-term care, is a plus.
• Ability to read and follow written and verbal instructions accurately.
• Basic knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices (ServSafe certification a plus).
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Compassionate, patient, and attentive to the needs of elderly or disabled residents.
• Regular and reliable attendance is required to perform the essential functions of this position.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Must be able to stand, walk, and bend for extended periods.
• Ability to lift or move items up to 35-40 pounds.
• Exposure to hot equipment, cleaning chemicals, and food allergens.
• Flexible schedule including weekends, holidays, and variable shifts.

Work Environment

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Fast-paced kitchen environment within a nursing home, supporting meal preparation and service for residents with specialized dietary needs
• Frequent interaction with residents, nursing staff, and kitchen team in a collaborative, patient-centered setting
• Exposure to food preparation areas, including heat, steam, and kitchen equipment (ovens, dishwashers, etc.)
• Strict adherence to sanitation, food safety, and health regulations at all times
• Work may involve standing for extended periods and moving between kitchen, dining, and patient care areas

Disclaimer

Nothing in this job description restricts management's right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Critical features of this job are described under various headings above. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons. The above statements are strictly intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed. They are not intended to be construed as a complete list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of employees in this position.