Job Description

Purpose of Your Position

The Dietary Aide supports the dietary department by assisting in the preparation, service, and cleanup of meals that meet residents’ nutritional and dietary needs. This role helps promote resident health, comfort, and satisfaction through high-quality food service in accordance with facility standards, safety regulations, and dietary guidelines.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

‍ Meal Preparation & Service

• Assist in preparing meals, snacks, and beverages according to dietary guidelines and menu plans.

• Serve meals promptly and courteously while ensuring proper portion control and presentation.

• Deliver food trays to residents and assist with serving in the dining room as needed.

• Ensure meals meet the nutritional and dietary requirements of each resident.

Sanitation & Safety

• Clean and sanitize dining areas, food carts, dishes, and kitchen equipment after each meal service.

• Maintain food safety and infection control procedures at all times.

• Handle food and equipment safely and in compliance with state and facility regulations.

• Monitor temperature controls for food storage and preparation areas.

Organization & Inventory

• Restock supplies and ingredients as needed to maintain efficient meal service.

• Assist in taking inventory and report shortages to the Cook or Dietary Manager.

• Keep work areas clean, organized, and hazard-free.

️ Resident Interaction

• Interact courteously and professionally with residents, ensuring meal preferences and needs are met.

• Report any concerns regarding residents’ food intake, preferences, or difficulties to nursing or dietary leadership.

• Support residents’ dignity and independence during mealtime.

⚙️ Working Conditions

• Requires standing, walking, bending, and lifting throughout the workday.

• May be exposed to temperature changes, wet floors, cleaning chemicals, and kitchen equipment.

• Interacts with residents, staff, and visitors in a variety of situations.

• Must be able to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

• Prior experience in food service, healthcare, or long-term care setting is helpful but not required — training will be provided.

Skills & Abilities

• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English.

• Strong attention to cleanliness, organization, and food safety standards.

• Dependable, compassionate, and able to work well as part of a team.

• Courteous and patient when interacting with residents, families, and coworkers.

• Able to follow written and verbal instructions accurately.

• Willingness to learn and maintain knowledge of dietary procedures and sanitation standards.

• Must not pose a direct threat to the health or safety of other individuals in the workplace.

Physical & Sensory Requirements

(With or without reasonable accommodation)

• Must be able to stand, walk, bend, and reach throughout the workday.

• Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 pounds safely.

• Must be able to tolerate temperature changes and humidity common in kitchen environments.

• Able to cope with the mental and emotional demands of a busy food service setting.

• Must be able to relate to and work with residents who are elderly, disabled, or emotionally upset.

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.