Dietary Aide

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Dietary Aide
Department: Dietary Services
Reports To: Dietary Manager / Food Service Director
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

The Dietary Aide is responsible for assisting with food preparation, meal service, sanitation, and maintaining a clean and safe dining environment for residents in a Skilled Nursing Facility. This position supports the dietary team in providing nutritious meals that meet residents' dietary needs, preferences, and physician-ordered diets while ensuring compliance with federal, state, and facility regulations.

• Prepare and portion food items according to established menus and dietary guidelines.

• Set up meal trays, beverages, condiments, and dining areas for meal service.

• Deliver meals and snacks to residents in a timely and courteous manner.

• Assist residents during mealtime as directed and report any concerns to nursing staff.

• Follow therapeutic and modified diet orders accurately.

• Wash dishes, utensils, pots, pans, and kitchen equipment.

• Clean and sanitize food preparation areas, dining rooms, and kitchen equipment according to infection control standards.

• Store food properly and monitor food temperatures to ensure food safety compliance.

• Assist with inventory, stocking supplies, and rotating food products using FIFO (First In, First Out) procedures.

• Dispose of waste and maintain cleanliness throughout the dietary department.

• Follow all facility policies regarding food safety, sanitation, resident rights, and confidentiality.

• Attend required in-service training and departmental meetings.

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Dietary Manager or Food Service Director.

• High school diploma or GED preferred.

• Previous experience in food service, healthcare, long-term care, or hospitality preferred but not required.

• Knowledge of food handling and sanitation practices is preferred.

• Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.

• Strong customer service and communication skills.

• Ability to work effectively with elderly and disabled residents.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

• Team-oriented with a positive attitude and dependable work ethic.

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 30 pounds regularly.

• Frequent bending, reaching, stooping, and repetitive motions.

• Ability to work in hot, cold, and wet environments commonly found in food service operations.

• Exposure to commercial kitchen equipment and cleaning chemicals.

• May work weekends, holidays, and varying shifts as needed.

• Requires adherence to infection control and food safety procedures.

• Competitive pay

• Health, dental, and vision insurance

• Paid time off

• 401(k) retirement plan

• Opportunities for training and career advancement

The Skilled Nursing Facility is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.