Dietetic Assistant - 134357

Under supervision, the Dietetic Assistant will support the UCSD Eating Disorder Treatment Programs, where the incumbent will have several different functions that help with the day-to-day operations of the pediatric, adolescent and adult Eating Disorder programs.

Responsibilities include working with Registered Dietitians to ensure patients' individual dietary needs are met, providing clinical support and information to other staff regarding patients, creating and analyzing menus according to specific dietary needs, creating and maintaining records of patient meal plan and weight progress, maintaining food inventory, assisting with food ordering and preparation, providing individualized patient meal support, monitoring and supervision of patients at mealtime, snack, and breaks and assisting in and/or leading food safety training, cooking class and work with the dietetic interns.

The Dietetic Assistant is also expected to accurately disseminate information operating within the department of psychiatry following the HIPAA standards and licensing standards for food safety and sanitation practices. Communicates in a clear, concise and professional manner with all patients, Clinic Managers, Supervisors, Contract Representatives and Clinic staff at all times. Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned and required to support clinical functions of the department.

• Eligible for registration as a Registered Dietetic Technician (DTR).

• A minimum of one (1) year of related experience in a Health or Social Services field.

• Experience working as a representative communicating frequently with clinical staff regarding patient needs and progress at mealtime and communicating with appropriate staff members about emergent patient issues.

• Demonstrated experience in supervising patients during meals, snacks and groups to monitor patients' maladaptive behaviors and intervene as necessary.

• Demonstrated competency in therapeutic diet knowledge.

• Thorough knowledge and experience in working closely with the Registered Dietitians (RD) to ensure that each patient meets his or her individual dietary needs, preparing calorie and weight graphs of patients, to help the dietitians monitor progress and safety, and working with Kitchen Manager on menus, patient intake, special dietary needs, etc.

• Proven ability to remain calm and professional while dealing with often in-crisis patients seeking behavioral health services while maintaining appropriate boundaries required of non-clinic staff. Ability to maintain strict confidentiality, understanding and applying HIPPA regulations.

• Bachelor's Degree in Food and Nutrition or related field.

• Registered as a Dietetic Technician (DTR).

• Experience working with eating disorders patients.

• Must be able to work various hours and locations based on business needs.

• Employment is subject to a criminal background check and pre-employment physical.

• Experience in utilization of clinical services by understanding the social and mental health needs of clients and communicating those needs to clinical personnel and interacting with the health care community to ensure smooth access to patient care.

• Demonstrated ability in screening, responding and resolving all incoming phone calls/voicemail messages within 24 to 48 hour time frame per contract requirements.