CareerZone Pennsylvania

Dietetic Technicians

Description

Assist dietitians in the provision of food service and nutritional programs. Under the supervision of dietitians, may plan and produce meals based on established guidelines, teach principles of food and nutrition, or counsel individuals.

Job Zone

Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed

Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree. Some may require a bachelor's degree.

Education Requirements

Moderate-term on-the-job training - Necessary skills are acquired through on-the-job training lasting 1 to 12 months.

Interests

Knowledge

Skills

Critical Thinking	Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
Learning Strategies	Selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new things.
Active Learning	Understanding the implications of new information for both current and future problem-solving and decision-making.
Instructing	Teaching others how to do something.
Writing	Communicating effectively in writing as appropriate for the needs of the audience.
Service Orientation	Actively looking for ways to help people.
Social Perceptiveness	Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.
Reading Comprehension	Understanding written sentences and paragraphs in work related documents.
Active Listening	Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

Tasks

• Determine food and beverage costs and assist in implementing cost control procedures.
• Develop job specifications, job descriptions, and work schedules.
• Select, schedule, and conduct orientation and in-service education programs.
• Provide dietitians with assistance researching food, nutrition and food service systems.
• Deliver speeches on diet, nutrition and health to promote healthy eating habits and illness prevention and treatment.
• Refer patients to other relevant services to provide continuity of care.
• Observe patient food intake and report progress and dietary problems to dietician.
• Prepare a major meal, following recipes and determining group food quantities.
• Analyze menus and recipes, standardize recipes and test new products.
• Supervise food production and service, or assist dietitians and nutritionists in food service supervision and planning.
• Obtain and evaluate dietary histories of individuals to plan nutritional programs.
• Plan menus and diets or guide individuals and families in food selection, preparation, and menu planning, based upon nutritional needs and established guidelines.

Wages

In 2006, the Pennsylvania average annual wage was $23,990.00. The entry-level wage was $16,720.00 while an experienced worker made $27,630.00.

Outlook

During 2004, there were approximately 1,400 people employed in this field in Pennsylvania. It is projected that there will be 1,720 employed in 2014. This occupation will have about 32 openings due to growth and about 18 replacement openings for approximately 50 total annual openings. This occupation experienced significant growth.

Colleges and Training

Below are college programs that are generally associated with this occupation. To view colleges that offer these programs, click on the titles below.

• Dietetic Technician (DTR)A program that prepares individuals, under the supervision of registered dietitians and nutritionists, to implement nutritional and dietetic plans and provide direct client and patient services. Includes instruction in human nutrition, client interviewing and record keeping, dietary planning, food preparation and safety, food worker supervision, food service establishment monitoring and inspection, and applicable procedures and regulations.

For additional college information and related training about this career path, please visit:

AES EducationPlanner, PA Dept of Labor, PA Career Link, college.gov, and College Navigator

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