Dietetic Technicians

Dietetic Technicians work under the supervision of dietitians and nutritionists to help plan and provide food services and nutritional programs. Their job description includes tasks like assessing patients' dietary needs, developing meal plans, conducting nutrition education, and overseeing food preparation and service. They may also assist in research projects related to nutrition and perform administrative duties within healthcare or food service settings.

Education / Training

To become a Dietetic Technician, individuals typically need to complete an associate degree program in dietetics or a related field from an accredited institution. These programs cover topics such as nutrition, food service management, and communication skills. Some employers may prefer candidates with relevant work experience or certification, such as the Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR) credential offered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. High school graduation is required for admission into most associate degree programs, meaning that completing high school is a necessary step towards pursuing this career. College-level education beyond high school is specifically needed to become a Dietetic Technician. Training for Dietetic Technicians involves a combination of classroom instruction and practical experience. Students learn about nutritional science, food safety, therapeutic diets, and meal planning. They also typically undergo internships or supervised practice in settings like hospitals, nursing homes, or community health organizations to gain hands-on experience working with clients and applying their knowledge in real-world situations. This training equips Dietetic Technicians with the skills and knowledge necessary to assist registered dietitians in providing quality nutritional care to patients or clients.