Dietary Aide

osition Summary

The Dietary Aide assists with the preparation, service, and cleanup of meals and nourishments for residents in a long-term care facility. The Dietary Aide helps ensure that residents receive meals according to physician orders, dietary restrictions, and facility standards while maintaining a clean, safe, and sanitary food service environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist with meal preparation and portioning as directed by cooks and supervisors.

• Prepare and serve resident meals, snacks, and beverages according to established schedules.

• Deliver meal trays and nourishments to resident rooms and dining areas.

• Follow therapeutic and modified diets as prescribed (e.g., diabetic, low sodium, pureed, thickened liquids).

• Set up and break down dining areas before and after meals.

• Wash dishes, utensils, pots, pans, and food service equipment.

• Clean and sanitize kitchen surfaces, carts, dining rooms, and work areas.

• Store food properly and rotate stock according to facility procedures.

• Monitor food temperatures and maintain food safety standards.

• Report equipment problems, safety concerns, and supply needs to the supervisor.

• Provide courteous service to residents, families, and staff.

• Follow all infection control, sanitation, and food handling regulations.

• Attend required in-services, meetings, and training programs.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.

• Previous food service or dietary experience preferred, especially in healthcare or long-term care.

• Ability to read and follow diet tickets, menus, and instructions.

• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices preferred.

• Ability to communicate effectively with residents and staff.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and lift throughout the shift.

• Ability to push and pull food carts.

• Ability to lift and carry up to 40 pounds.

• Ability to work in a warm kitchen environment.

• Ability to perform repetitive tasks for extended periods.

Working Conditions

• Exposure to hot surfaces, steam, cleaning chemicals, and kitchen equipment.

• Frequent interaction with elderly residents and healthcare staff.

• May be required to work weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.