Dietetic Technician and Dietetic Assistant
Career Description
Dietetic technicians and dietetic assistants aid registered dietitians in nutrition care services, help shape the public’s nutrition and aid people with illnesses or injuries. Dietetic technicians screen patients to identify nutrition problems and provide patient education and counseling to individuals or groups. Dietetic assistants also work directly under a dietitian but usually assume more clerical food service duties.
Annual Salary
| Entry: $18,970 | Mean: $24,378 | Experienced: $29,370 |
| Source: Kansas City Metropolitan Healthcare Council, 2006 Salary Data | ||
Hourly Wage
| Entry: $9.12 | Mean: $11.72 | Experienced: $14.12 |
| Source: Kansas City Metropolitan Healthcare Council, 2006 Salary Data | ||
Academic Requirements
A two-year associate’s degree program at an accredited college or university is required. Then, students should complete a program approved by the Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education and 450 hours of supervised practical experience. Dietetic assistants require no formal training and will learn appropriate skills on the job.
Schools
Massage Therapy Training Institute
816/523-9140
Nutrition Institute Of America
800/978-2674
University of Central Missouri (Warrensburg)
877/729-8266
Professional Associations
National
American Dietetic Association
Dietary Managers Association
State
Kansas City Dietetic Association
Missouri Dietetic Association
Missouri State Committee of Dietitians
