Federal
Clinical Dietetic Technician
Veterans Health Administration · Department of Veterans Affairs
About This Position
This position is located at the Lexington VA Medical Center in Clinical Nutrition Section of Nutrition and Food Services. The Clinical Dietetic Technician has the responsibility of providing a high-level of technical assistance and support to the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. Employee will assist both Food and Clinical to complete administrative tasks consistent with expectations of a Dietetic Technician in addition to timekeeping.
Qualifications
Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met. Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Basic Education Requirement: successfully completed a course of study in an accredited college leading to an associate's degree in Dietetic Technology with an emphasis in Nutrition Care or the equivalent post-secondary education. At least 12 semester hours in subjects related to the position. Proficient in spoken and written English as required by 38 U.S.C. 7402(d). Education must have included instruction in nutrition care/diet therapy, the natural sciences (e.g. anatomy, physiology, biochemistry), social sciences (e.g. psychology, sociology), food sciences, medical terminology, communications, and education. In addition, education must have included supervised field experience in a hospital or similar clinical setting. Note: Copies of pertinent transcripts (unofficial or official) must be submitted with your application. Education will not be credited without documentation. An associate's degree in Dietetic Technology(Nutrition Care) from a program approved by the American Dietetic Association (ADA) is preferred. In addition to meeting the Basic Education Requirement above, you must also meet one of the following additional requirements. GS-05. Experience. None beyond the basic requirements. GS-06. Experience. One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade (GS-05) in the field of clinical dietetics technology in which you have demonstrated successfully use on the following: 1) Knowledge of nutrition screening process. 2) Knowledge of programs and systems used to manage patient diet orders and preferences. 3) Skill in conducting diet education to selected groups of patients and individuals. 4) Ability to work collaboratively with patients and coworkers to provide nutrition care. NOTE: Possession of the Dietetic Technician, Registered (DTR) credential can be substituted for the one year of specialized experience. Assignment. Employees at this grade level serve in CDT developmental positions. It is expected that the CDT receives guidance from higher-level staff members or supervisors and requires minimal supervision. The CDT may modify diet orders for texture/consistency, tolerance, and supplemental feedings as appropriate. The CDT assists the RDN with screening and evaluation of nutrition care needs of patients, development of nutritional care plans including nutrition interventions, and diet counseling outlined by the RDN. The incumbent may assist in related duties that support performance improvement activities for the service. Clinical GS-07. (1) Experience. One year of specialized experience equivalent to the next lower grade (GS-06). In addition to meeting the experience or certification requirements for this grade level, the candidate must fully demonstrate the following KSAs: 1) Knowledge in Medical Nutrition Therapy pertaining to completing nutrition assessments. 2) Knowledge of food service operations. 3) Skill in conducting nutrition intervention, patient interviewing, and nutrition counseling as part of the nutrition care process. 4) Ability to organize, evaluate, and execute teaching plans to provide nutrition education for selected groups of patients and individuals. 5) Ability to effectively communicate nutrition education and care plans with patients, family members, coworkers, internal customers, and external customers. Assignment. Employees at this grade level serve as full performance level CDTs. They are knowledgeable of a variety of complex diet orders. The CDT will conduct screening and evaluation of nutrition care needs of patients, development of nutritional care plans including nutrition interventions, and diet counseling in collaboration with the RDN. The employee makes recommendations for adjustments to improve patient's recovery and/or teaching plan, evaluates (instruction, demonstration, facilitation) and works collaboratively with the patient and family to develop strategies to meet their learning needs. The CDT educates patients or employees, in groups or individually, and/or those accompanying the patient regarding medical nutrition therapies. The employee serves as a preceptor for dietetic technician affiliated programs and associated tasks as applicable. The CDT assists with administrative or clerical functions associated with food service operations. May qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision as described in the VA Qualification Standard for this occupation (only applicable to current VHA employees who are in this occupation and meet the criteria). Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/. The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-07. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-05 to GS-07.
Major Duties
The incumbent performs duties with a high level of independence and demonstrates exceptional competence regarding clinical and administrative duties while functioning within the assigned Scope of Practice. Major duties include but are not limited to: Interviews patients or caretaker, to obtain information such as diagnoses, medications, food-related preferences, allergies and intolerances, swallowing or digestions issues, unplanned weight loss / gain, etc. Collects and analyzes data and information from patient's medical record. Compares patients' nutrition data to pre-established screening criteria and determines appropriate level of nutritional care. Monitors patients for changes in weight, appearance, food intake or medications. Maintains and updates menus for accurate and timely registry of a menu item. Identifies mistakes in diet order information and takes corrective action. Coordinates timely deliveries with food service staff and wards. Informs appropriate staff members of any issues or potential incidents Performs administrative duties as assigned which may include items like receives consults and contacts patient to gather information and share scheduling options. May assist with teaching classes and assist with food preparation and cleanup as assigned by dietitian. May conduct patient satisfaction surveys or tray studies. May modify diet orders for texture/consistency, tolerance, and supplemental feedings as appropriate under the oversight of the RDN. May assist with screening and evaluation, development of nutrition care plans, including interventions and diet counselings outlined by the RDN. May assist in related duties that support performance improvement activities, or preparation of studies, or quality control audits for the service. Assists with administrative or clerical functions associated with food service and clinical operations. Assists with analysis of manpower and workload requirements in organizations. Coordinates, develops, and maintains computer software files to support the function of Nutrition and Food Services (NFS).Uses available technology for data collection, reporting, training, and other food service and production functions. May facilitate employee training on certain topics. Work Schedule: Monday-Friday; tours available include 7:30-4:00 8:00-4:30 Telework: Ad-hoc as determined by the Supervisor. Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Functional Statement #: 99594S, 99307S, 99306S Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized.
Conditions of Employment
You must be a U.S. Citizen to apply for this job. All applicants tentatively selected for VA employment in a testing designated position are subject to urinalysis to screen for illegal drug use prior to appointment. Applicants who refuse to be tested will be denied employment with VA. Selective Service Registration is required for males born after 12/31/1959. Must be proficient in written and spoken English. Subject to background/security investigation. Selected applicants will be required to complete an online onboarding process. Acceptable form(s) of identification will be required to complete pre-employment requirements (https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents). Effective May 7, 2025, driver's licenses or state-issued dentification cards that are not REAL ID compliant cannot be utilized as an acceptable form of identification for employment. Must pass pre-employment physical examination. Participation in the seasonal influenza vaccination program is a requirement for all Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Personnel (HCP). Complete all application requirements detailed in the "Required Documents" section of this announcement. As a condition of employment for accepting this position, you will be required to serve a 1 or 2-year trial period during which we will evaluate your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In determining if your employment advances the public interest, we may consider: your performance and conduct; the needs and interests of the agency; whether your continued employment would advance organizational goals of the agency or the Government; and whether your continued employment would advance the efficiency of the Federal service. Upon completion of your trial period, your employment will be terminated unless you receive certification, in writing, that your continued employment advances the public interest.
Education
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
How You Will Be Evaluated
IN DESCRIBING YOUR EXPERIENCE, PLEASE BE CLEAR AND SPECIFIC. WE MAY NOT MAKE ASSUMPTIONS REGARDING YOUR EXPERIENCE. Your application, resume, C.V., and/or supporting documentation will be verified. Please follow all instructions carefully. Errors or omissions may affect consideration for employment. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. The Department of Veterans Affairs performs pre-employment reference checks as an assessment method used in the hiring process to verify information provided by a candidate (e.g., on resume or during interview or hiring process); gain additional knowledge regarding a candidate's abilities; and assist a hiring manager with making a final selection for a position. It is the policy of the VA to not deny employment to those that have faced financial hardships or periods of unemployment. Veterans and Transitioning Service Members: Please visit the VA for Vets site for career-search tools for Veterans seeking employment at VA, career development services for our existing Veterans, and coaching and reintegration support for military service members.
Additional Information
Receiving Service Credit for Earning Annual (Vacation) Leave: Federal Employees earn annual leave at a rate (4, 6 or 8 hours per pay period) which is based on the number of years they have served as a Federal employee. Selected applicants may qualify for credit toward annual leave accrual, based on prior work experience or military service experience. This credited service can be used in determining the rate at which they earn annual leave. Such credit must be requested and approved prior to the appointment date and is not guaranteed. During the application process you may have an option to opt-in to make your resume available to hiring managers in the agency who have similar positions. Opting in does not impact your application for this announcement, nor does it guarantee further consideration for additional positions. This job opportunity announcement may be used to fill additional vacancies. This position is in the Excepted Service and does not confer competitive status. VA encourages persons with disabilities to apply. The health-related positions in VA are covered by Title 38, and are not covered by the Schedule A excepted appointment authority. If you are unable to apply online or need an alternate method to submit documents, please reach out to the Agency Contact listed in this Job Opportunity Announcement. Under the Fair Chance to Compete Act, the Department of Veterans Affairs prohibits requesting an applicant's criminal history prior to accepting a tentative job offer. For more information about the Act and the complaint process, visit Human Resources and Administration/Operations, Security, and Preparedness (HRA/OSP) at The Fair Chance Act.
How to Apply
All applicants are encouraged to apply online. To apply for this position, you must complete the full questionnaire and submit the documentation specified in the Required Documents section below. The complete application package must be submitted by 11:59 PM (ET) on 02/13/2026 to receive consideration. To preview the questionnaire click https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12872532. To begin, click Apply Online to create a USAJOBS account or log in to your existing account. Follow the prompts to select your USA JOBS resume and/or other supporting documents and complete the occupational questionnaire. Click Submit My Answers to submit your application package. NOTE: It is your responsibility to ensure your responses and appropriate documentation is submitted prior to the closing date.
Required Documents
To apply for this position, you must provide a complete Application Package which includes: Resume Special Note for Applications: To complete your application, please use the following link https://vacareers.va.gov/wp-content/uploads/sites/5/Resume.docx to download the standard Clinical Resume Document. This one-page document does not need to be modified and must be uploaded into the two-page restricted 'Resume' document upload field. Your full resume/CV may be uploaded without page limitation into the 'Other' document upload field. The following documents are accepted, and may be required if applicable to your eligibility and/or qualifications for this position. Please ensure you have included all documents required for your application, such as a copy of your transcript (if using education to qualify), SF-50's (current/former Federal employees), etc. Cover Letter DD-214/ Statement of Service Disability Letter (Schedule A) Disability Letter (VA) License Other (1) PCS Orders Performance Appraisal Professional Certification Resume Separation Notice (RIF) SF-15 SF-50/ Notification of Personnel Action Transcript Veterans' Preference: When applying for Federal Jobs, eligible Veterans should claim preference for 5pt (TP), 10pt (CP/CPS/XP), or for Sole Survivor Preference (SSP) in the questionnaire. You must provide a legible copy of your DD214(s) which shows dates and character of service (honorable, general, etc.). If you are currently serving on active duty and expect to be released or discharged within 120 days you must submit documentation related to your active duty service which reflects the dates of service, character of service (honorable, general, etc.), and dates of impending separation. Additionally, disabled veterans and others eligible for 10-point preference (such as widows or mothers of eligible Veterans) must also submit an SF-15 "Application for 10 Point Veteran Preference" with required proof as stated on the form. Documentation is required to award preference. For more information on Veterans' Preference, please visit Feds Hire Vets - Veterans - Job Seekers - Veterans' Preference. Veterans' preference does not apply for internal or other current permanent Federal agency employees.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the salary for the Clinical Dietetic Technician position at Veterans Health Administration?
The salary range for this position is $40,736 - $65,599/yr. This is a GS-5/7 position on the General Schedule pay scale. Actual pay may vary based on locality adjustments.
Where is the Clinical Dietetic Technician job located?
This position is located in Lexington, Kentucky. This is an on-site position.
What qualifications do I need?
Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met. Basic Requirements: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy...
How do I apply for this position?
Apply through USAJobs.gov by clicking the 'Apply on USAJobs' button. You'll need a USAJobs account, a federal-style resume, and supporting documents. The deadline is Feb 13, 2026.
Is a security clearance required?
No security clearance is required for this position.
What does GS-5/7 mean?
GS-5/7 refers to the General Schedule grade level. Higher grades require more experience and offer higher pay. Visit our GS Pay Scale page for full salary tables by grade and locality.
What benefits do federal employees receive?
Federal employees receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (FEHB), retirement through FERS, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) with government matching, paid annual and sick leave, paid parental leave, life insurance, and student loan repayment programs.