Dietary Aide

Position Summary

The Dietary Aide is responsible for assisting with food preparation, meal service, kitchen sanitation, and maintaining a clean and safe dining environment for residents in a nursing home or long-term care facility. The Dietary Aide ensures residents receive nutritious meals in accordance with dietary guidelines, physician orders, and facility policies while providing excellent customer service and compassionate care.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare and portion food items according to menus and dietary requirements.
• Assist with meal tray setup and delivery to residents.
• Serve meals and beverages to residents in dining areas and resident rooms.
• Follow special diet instructions, including modified textures and therapeutic diets.
• Wash dishes, utensils, pots, pans, and kitchen equipment.
• Clean and sanitize kitchen, dining areas, food carts, and workstations.
• Maintain proper food storage and labeling procedures.
• Follow infection control, food safety, and sanitation guidelines.
• Dispose of trash and maintain cleanliness throughout the shift.
• Assist residents with meal setup as needed while promoting dignity and respect.
• Monitor food temperatures and document as required.
• Stock supplies and report shortages to supervisor.
• Work cooperatively with nursing staff and dietary team members.
• Attend required in-services and training programs.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Previous dietary, food service, or healthcare experience preferred but not required.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices preferred.
• Must demonstrate compassion, patience, and professionalism when working with elderly residents.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift, carry, and push up to 25–50 pounds.
• Frequent bending, reaching, and lifting.
• Ability to work in hot and cold environments within the kitchen.

Work Environment

• Nursing home or long-term care facility setting.
• Exposure to kitchen equipment, cleaning chemicals, and food allergens.
• Weekend and holiday availability may be required.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

[Facility Name] is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.