Research Dietetic Technician Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the evolving field of health and wellness, the role of research dietetic technicians is increasingly significant.

As nutrition science advances, the demand for skilled professionals who can conduct, analyze, and apply research in dietetics continues to grow.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a research dietetic technician?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker aiming to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager defining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply captivated by the intricate field of dietetic research,

You’ve arrived at the right place.

Today, we present a customizable research dietetic technician job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Research Dietetic Technician Duties and Responsibilities

Research Dietetic Technicians work closely with dietitians and nutritionists to provide dietary and nutritional services to patients.

They are primarily responsible for assisting with nutritional research, planning meals, and monitoring patients’ nutritional health.

Research Dietetic Technicians have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Assist with nutritional and dietetic research
• Conduct food service or clinical audits to ensure quality and safety of dietetic services
• Plan and prepare meals based on nutritional requirements and dietary needs of patients
• Monitor and assess the dietary intake and nutritional health of patients
• Document patient information, such as weight, food intake, and dietary restrictions
• Provide dietary consultations and education to patients
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals to plan and implement individualized nutritional care plans
• Stay updated with latest research and developments in nutrition and dietetics
• Order and maintain inventory of food and nutrition supplies

 

Research Dietetic Technician Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a meticulous and dedicated Research Dietetic Technician to contribute to our ongoing dietary research projects.

The Research Dietetic Technician will be responsible for collecting and analyzing food and nutrition-related data, conducting dietary assessments, and assisting in the development of nutritional plans and educational materials.

Our ideal candidate is knowledgeable in the principles of dietetics and nutritional science, with experience working in a research setting.

 

Responsibilities

• Assist with food and diet research studies
• Collect and analyze food, dietary, and health-related data
• Perform dietary assessments and record dietary intake
• Assist in the design and implementation of dietary plans
• Develop and disseminate educational materials related to nutrition and diet
• Assist with participant recruitment and screening for research studies
• Perform quality control procedures to ensure accuracy of all data
• Collaborate with team members to plan, conduct, and evaluate research studies
• Ensure compliance with research protocols and ethics
• Stay current with the latest research and trends in dietetics and nutrition

 

Qualifications

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Dietetics, Nutrition, or a related field
• Registration or certification as a Dietetic Technician by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) is preferred
• Experience working in a research setting is beneficial
• Proficient in dietary analysis software
• Strong understanding of nutrition and dietetics principles
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Attention to detail and accuracy

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Research Dietetic Technician
• Work Environment: Laboratory and office setting. Some travel may be required for conferences or to collaborate with research partners.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Research Dietitian or Dietetic Research Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Research Dietetic Technician Do?

Research Dietetic Technicians usually work in hospitals, clinics, or research facilities under the supervision of registered dietitians.

Their key responsibility involves assisting in the research of nutritional science to develop or improve dietary guidelines and standards.

They are involved in the collection, analysis and interpretation of data related to the nutritional needs of individuals or specific population groups.

Research Dietetic Technicians also conduct surveys and use statistical software to analyze food consumption and the impact of diet on health outcomes.

They prepare reports and presentations to share research findings, and may also collaborate in the development of educational materials and programs to promote healthy eating habits.

In clinical settings, they may assist in assessing patients’ nutritional needs, developing meal plans, and monitoring patients’ progress.

Moreover, they ensure that the research conducted is in compliance with all relevant regulations and ethical guidelines.

They may also contribute to the preparation of research proposals and grant applications.

A significant part of their job is staying updated with the latest research and development in the field of nutritional science to improve the quality and accuracy of their research.

 

Research Dietetic Technician Qualifications and Skills

A competent research dietetic technician should possess a range of technical skills, interpersonal qualities, and knowledge about nutrition and dietetics, including:

• Knowledge of the principles of nutritional science and dietetics to assist in the planning, implementation, and analysis of dietary research.
• Technical skills to operate and maintain dietetic research equipment and software, as well as perform laboratory tests.
• Interpersonal skills to work effectively with a multi-disciplinary research team, communicate with study participants, and present research findings.
• Organizational skills to manage multiple tasks, such as preparing research materials, scheduling participant appointments, and maintaining detailed records.
• Problem-solving skills to identify and resolve issues that may arise during the course of a research study.
• Data analysis skills to interpret dietary intake data, perform statistical analysis, and contribute to research findings.
• Continual learning mindset to stay updated with the latest research trends, dietetic guidelines, and nutrition science.

 

Research Dietetic Technician Experience Requirements

Entry-level candidates for the role of a Research Dietetic Technician may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through an internship or part-time role in a health care or research setting.

These candidates can also gain relevant experience by working in roles such as Clinical Dietetic Technician, Food Service Technician, or other roles in the field of nutrition and dietetics.

Candidates with more than 2 years of experience are often those who have worked in full-time dietetic technician roles, where they have had the opportunity to develop their technical skills and knowledge about diet and nutrition.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are typically considered for senior or supervisory roles.

They are often professionals who have gathered extensive experience in the field, and may have led research studies, contributed to publications in the field of nutrition, or supervised junior technicians.

Further, candidates interested in research roles should have experience in data analysis and be familiar with research methodology in the field of dietetics.

They should also have experience in planning and implementing diet and nutrition interventions, and in evaluating their outcomes.

Finally, a strong background in the biological and health sciences, and a proven ability to keep up with the latest research in the field of nutrition and dietetics, are essential for anyone seeking a role as a Research Dietetic Technician.

 

Research Dietetic Technician Education and Training Requirements

Research Dietetic Technicians typically require an associate degree in dietetics, food and nutrition, or a related field.

These programs often include courses in nutrition, diet therapy, and food service management.

Practical training also forms a significant part of these programs, where students get hands-on experience in dietary planning and food preparation.

Upon completing the program, the individual needs to complete a dietetic technician program approved by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

After graduation, individuals must pass a national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR).

Some states may also require dietetic technicians to be licensed.

This may require additional criteria to be met, such as completing a specific number of supervised practice hours.

Continuing education is crucial in this field, and professionals often attend workshops, conferences, or take additional courses to stay updated on the latest research and developments.

Some individuals may choose to specialize in a specific area of dietetics, which may require additional education and training.

Specialization areas may include pediatric, renal, or diabetes nutrition.

 

Research Dietetic Technician Salary Expectations

A Research Dietetic Technician earns an average salary of $46,000 (USD) per year.

However, the salary can fluctuate depending on factors such as experience, educational background, and the location of the job.

 

Research Dietetic Technician Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Research Dietetic Technician need?

A Research Dietetic Technician should have solid knowledge of nutritional science, as well as strong analytical skills to interpret research data.

They should be able to work with a variety of laboratory equipment and understand safety procedures.

Good communication skills are also necessary, as they often work in a team-based environment and may need to present research findings.

They should also have excellent attention to detail and strong organizational skills for managing multiple projects.

 

What type of education is required to be a Research Dietetic Technician?

Research Dietetic Technicians typically require an associate’s degree in dietetics, food and nutrition, or a related field.

Some roles may require a bachelor’s degree.

Additionally, many positions require certification through the Commission on Dietetic Registration, which involves passing an exam after completion of the degree and a supervised practice program.

 

What should you look for in a Research Dietetic Technician resume?

A Research Dietetic Technician’s resume should demonstrate a strong academic background in nutrition or dietetics and any relevant certifications.

Experience in a research setting or hands-on work in a clinical or healthcare setting is a plus.

Analytical skills, ability to work with lab equipment, and experience with data collection and analysis should be evident.

 

What qualities make a good Research Dietetic Technician?

A good Research Dietetic Technician is precise and detail-oriented, as they are often handling complex data and conducting nutritional assessments.

They should be passionate about promoting health through nutrition and willing to stay up-to-date with the latest dietary research and trends.

Being self-motivated and able to work independently, yet also collaborate effectively with a team, is also important.

 

What is the work environment for a Research Dietetic Technician?

Research Dietetic Technicians typically work in laboratories, healthcare facilities, or educational institutions.

They might work under the supervision of a registered dietitian or nutrition scientist.

The role may involve some physical activity, such as standing for extended periods while conducting experiments.

Some tasks may require work on weekends or evenings to monitor ongoing experiments or studies.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve taken an in-depth look at what it truly means to be a research dietetic technician.

But guess what?

It’s not solely about nutritional analysis and research.

It’s about shaping a healthier future, one meal plan at a time.

With our go-to research dietetic technician job description template and practical examples, you’re fully prepared to take the plunge.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate resource for crafting precision-targeted listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every meal plan and nutrition advice is a step towards a healthier society.

Let’s shape that future. Together.

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