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Job outlook for consultants dietitian in the United States
Consultant dietitian job growth summary. After extensive research, interviews, and analysis, Zippia's data science team found that:
The projected consultant dietitian job growth rate is 7% from 2018-2028.
About 5,100 new jobs for consultants dietitian are projected over the next decade.
Consultant dietitian salaries have increased 7% for consultants dietitian in the last 5 years.
There are over 18,713 consultants dietitian currently employed in the United States.
There are 10,584 active consultant dietitian job openings in the US.
The average consultant dietitian salary is $59,637.
Are consultant dietitian jobs in demand?
Consultant dietitian job and salary trends over time
Consultant dietitian jobs over time
Consultant dietitian job growth rate over time
| Year | # of jobs | % of population |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 18,713 | 0.01% |
| 2020 | 18,612 | 0.01% |
| 2019 | 18,988 | 0.01% |
| 2018 | 18,146 | 0.01% |
| 2017 | 17,672 | 0.01% |
Average consultant dietitian salary over time
Consultant dietitian salary by year
| Year | Avg. salary | Hourly rate | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $59,637 | $28.67 | +3.0% |
| 2024 | $57,916 | $27.84 | +1.5% |
| 2023 | $57,066 | $27.44 | +1.6% |
| 2022 | $56,158 | $27.00 | +0.8% |
| 2021 | $55,695 | $26.78 | +1.7% |
Consultant dietitian jobs by state
Most common states for consultants dietitian
| Rank | State | Population | # of jobs | Employment/ 1000ppl |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | South Dakota | 869,666 | 196 | 23% |
| 2 | Alabama | 4,874,747 | 607 | 12% |
| 3 | Oklahoma | 3,930,864 | 460 | 12% |
| 4 | Mississippi | 2,984,100 | 303 | 10% |
| 5 | District of Columbia | 693,972 | 69 | 10% |
| 6 | Massachusetts | 6,859,819 | 369 | 5% |
| 7 | Indiana | 6,666,818 | 313 | 5% |
| 8 | New Hampshire | 1,342,795 | 67 | 5% |
| 9 | Rhode Island | 1,059,639 | 50 | 5% |
| 10 | Vermont | 623,657 | 29 | 5% |
| 11 | North Carolina | 10,273,419 | 367 | 4% |
| 12 | Minnesota | 5,576,606 | 221 | 4% |
| 13 | Oregon | 4,142,776 | 159 | 4% |
| 14 | Kansas | 2,913,123 | 130 | 4% |
| 15 | Maine | 1,335,907 | 59 | 4% |
| 16 | Delaware | 961,939 | 39 | 4% |
| 17 | North Dakota | 755,393 | 30 | 4% |
| 18 | New York | 19,849,399 | 556 | 3% |
| 19 | New Jersey | 9,005,644 | 300 | 3% |
| 20 | Alaska | 739,795 | 21 | 3% |
Consultant Dietitian job outlook: Expert opinions
Our panel of consultant dietitian experts
University of Northern Colorado
University of Rhode Island
Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
Utah State University
University of Georgia
Michigan State University
Oklahoma State University - Oklahoma City
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Marywood University
Grand Valley State University
Stony Brook University
North Carolina State University
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
University of Connecticut
Kansas State University
What general advice would you give to a Consultant Dietitian?
Dr. Michelle Johnson PhD, RDN, LDN: The day-to-day function of a registered dietitian can be very different, depending on the type of practice you engage in. We have three main domains of practice: Clinical, Community, and Foodservice, and there is a great deal of variety within these domains. Every program, and every dietitian has a unique perspective on what they enjoy about the field (this is a great thing!). At ETSU, our program focus is Clinical (whether that be inpatient or outpatient settings). One of things I love about being a clinical dietitian is that no two days are alike. Each patient is unique, and I rarely have a day where I am not learning something new. Providing medical nutrition therapy can include all age groups, or you can specialize in an area of practice including obesity and weight management, geriatrics, pediatrics, sport nutrition, oncology, renal and critical care.
What Consultant Dietitian skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Michelle Johnson PhD, RDN, LDN: The field of Dietetics is a great field to enter as it is ever-growing (estimates are 7% growth from 2021-2031), and there are so many career paths to choose from. There are always jobs available. In addition to more traditional health care roles, registered dietitians may choose to become managers of foodservice operations, strive to improve the health of the public through community nutrition efforts, corporate wellness, engage in research, assist with the development of novel food products, work in media and communications, support athletic teams, and even continue in academia to develop future practitioners. There is also flexibility to engage in more than one of these paths over a career, and many dietitians do.
What will help Consultants Dietitian increase their earning potential?
Dr. Michelle Johnson PhD, RDN, LDN: As in any field, there are aspects that are positive and negative. While the academic road to becoming an RDN can be challenging, its science-based curriculum provides a foundation that supports decision-making skills that are valued by other practitioners. Many of our graduates have gone on to work in facilities with other dietitians and interprofessional teams, and this environment provides a sense of contribution and comradery that are rewarding. Most companies allow growth and compensation that increases over time. It is possible to specialize as well and offered career ladders. Our field has a great deal of flexibility, and many home-based opportunities. Most positions include traditional hours, and the opportunity for growth. Starting salaries vary by location and responsibility so this can be a challenge in deciding what position to pursue.
What general advice would you give to a Consultant Dietitian?
Anne Burdine MS, RDN, LDN: Do your homework ahead of time on the going rate in your geographic area and particular area of practice. Even though you are entry level, you do not have to take the first offer that is given to you. Negotiating can be intimidating, but practicing ahead of time with a friend or family member who has experience in the work force can help significantly. When negotiating, don’t forget about job benefits such as tuition remission, paid time off, money towards continuing education, etc. These can go a long way towards job satisfaction. Tuition remission and continuing education also give you opportunities to advance your skills and climb the career ladder. A lower salary with a clear path (and definitive timeline) for advancement is sometimes better than a higher salary with no advancement potential.
What Consultant Dietitian skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Anne Burdine MS, RDN, LDN: Keep an open mind! Don’t be afraid to say yes to a job that isn’t necessarily your final long-term goal. You never know what doors a job will open and what skills you may pick up along the way. You are not locked in- the field of dietetics is wide, and most dietitians go through several areas in dietetics before finding a more “permanent” landing place. You are never stuck. It’s okay to leave a situation that ultimately isn’t a good fit- but a good general rule of thumb is to give a job 6 months before making any true assessments of if you like it or not. Being the newbie can be hard. I’ve wanted to quit many a job within the first few weeks, but then ended up staying for years and loving it! Also, do not be afraid to say “yes” when trainings and opportunities present themselves (or seek these out when a need arises). Get trained in hands-on skills, advance your degree, conduct research when the opportunity arises- all of these will help to set you apart as a leader.
What will help Consultants Dietitian increase their earning potential?
Anne Burdine MS, RDN, LDN: The hands-on clinical skills will set us apart from other nutrition professionals who do not hold the registered dietitian credential. Being able to physically assess someone’s nutrition status, uncover and treat malnutrition, and even place NG tubes are all skills that can help secure our spot in the healthcare arena. With the master’s mandate for new graduates, research skills should be more prevalent in new RDNs. Honing your research skills is incredibly important as it can contribute to career advancement as well as the advancement of the profession and patient care.
What general advice would you give to a Consultant Dietitian?
Dr. Stephanie Fanelli PhD, RDN: As of early 2024, a graduate degree is now an entry-level requirement for registered dietitians. This means that all future dietitians will have at least a master's degree, inherently increasing the baseline expertise of entry-level dietitians in the United States. Dietitians with a graduate degree should advocate for a higher salary compensatory with this additional education. Many graduate programs prepare students to become experts in research and clinical practice, which further strengthens dietitians' contributions to a huge variety of work settings and organizations. Compensation and professional reward may also come in other forms than just salary. For instance, many organizations may pay for preexisting dietitians without a graduate degree to go back to school to earn a master's degree. This investment in dietitians not only helps to bolster the strength of the organization itself, but it also prepares its dietitians to excel in the field, assume leadership roles, and maximize their salary potential. The healthcare landscape in the United States is evolving to adopt the value-based healthcare model in which cost-effective services are rewarded as opposed to less effective yet costly clinical interventions. Medical nutrition therapy and nutrition education delivered by registered dietitians has proven to be clinically effective and cost-efficient time and time again, and emphasis on disease prevention and lifestyle change is becoming more apparent. Clinical dietitians should monitor their impact on patient outcomes, which may save healthcare organizations, insurance agencies, and individual patients a considerable amount of money over time. By quantifying their clinical and economic effect, dietitians can advocate for their direct contributions to their company and negotiate their compensation. Dietitians may consider collaborating with faculty and researchers at universities to better evaluate their effectiveness.
What Consultant Dietitian skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Stephanie Fanelli PhD, RDN: The field of nutrition and dietetics is so broad, with roles for dietitians in a vast array of industries, clinical and non-clinical settings, and non-profit and government avenues, among many others. Nutrition and dietetics professionals should be open to trying out new roles in a variety of different work settings to explore their own interests and strengths. Ask questions, learn from your peers and colleagues, and speak up when you have an idea or disagree with current practices; As a recent graduate beginning your career, you may not have as much practical experience as your colleagues, but you may be more familiar with the most up-to-date evidence-based practices and recommendations. Become involved in various levels of the field ranging from local or organizational to regional, national, and even international levels, such as membership to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the American Society for Nutrition, or the Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior. Over time, your involvement in the field will morph into meaningful professional relationships and career opportunities. Develop an approach for staying up-to-date on the latest evidence and recommendations in nutrition and dietetics. The field is evidence-based, meaning that clinical guidelines or practice recommendations are always evolving to reflect most recent research. Identify key resources for finding updated information and staying in-the-know with nutrition research.
What will help Consultants Dietitian increase their earning potential?
Dr. Stephanie Fanelli PhD, RDN: The COVID-19 pandemic catalyzed the use of telehealth, and the role of telenutrition will continue to expand over the next 3 to 5 years. Telenutrition is the virtual delivery of evidence-based nutrition counseling by a registered dietitian, and can make dietitians more accessible to many people across the United States. Dietitians and nutrition experts will need to master these virtual skills so that they can deliver high-quality nutrition counseling sessions that are traditionally done in-person. Nutrition misinformation is rapidly being spread across social media platforms. Many social media influencers cherry-pick nutrition research studies and inaccurately interpret their findings, which ultimately threatens the safety and wellbeing of millions of social media users. Nutrition and dietetics professionals should learn how to accurately and rigorously evaluate and critically appraise nutrition research so that they can correct this nutrition misinformation and serve as a reputable source of evidence-based information. Graduate school prepares nutrition and dietetics students to be able to critically appraise nutrition research, and hopefully the new entry-level graduate degree requirement for dietitians will lead to greater scientific accuracy and less nutrition misinformation being spread across social media channels.
What general advice would you give to a Consultant Dietitian?
Sarah Larson MS, RD, LDN: There are many, many career paths for Registered Dietitians, so each day will vary depending on the position. For example, an RD in a clinical setting (such as a hospital) may start their day by checking in on patient charts, attending multidisciplinary rounds, then developing nutrition care plans and deliver nutrition education to patients, provide recommendations for nutrition plans to the care team, and end the day with charting on their patients. An outpatient RD could see 2-10 patients in a day and their diagnoses can vary from high cholesterol to irritable bowel syndrome to food allergies and everything in between.
What Consultant Dietitian skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Sarah Larson MS, RD, LDN: People have never been more interested in food and wellness than they are now. There is an increasing need for nutrition professionals that are providing evidence-based information for optimal health. There is a lot of nutrition misinformation and RDs can work with patients/clients to debunk fallacies and customize advice to each person.
What will help Consultants Dietitian increase their earning potential?
Sarah Larson MS, RD, LDN: I can't speak for all RDs, but generally, we love to talk about food in any situation. Being an RD is a flexible career path - there is so much that can be done with the credential that many build their own 'dream jobs' from several experiences and opportunities.
What general advice would you give to a Consultant Dietitian?
Pinkin Panchal MS, RDN: Due to the high demand for RDNs in various settings and the recent advanced education requirements, new practitioners can remain competitive through salary negotiation and sign on bonuses for entry level positions. As you become an experienced practitioner, acquiring advanced level certifications through the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) in focus practice area will enhance expertise as well as obtaining leadership positions in the field.
What Consultant Dietitian skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Pinkin Panchal MS, RDN: Analytical skills and critical thinking are key to being an effective registered dietitian! As the food and nutrition expert, the registered dietitian must possess strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills to implement evidence-based practice. Dietitians must also exhibit interpersonal communication skills as they are commonly interacting with different audiences.
What will help Consultants Dietitian increase their earning potential?
Pinkin Panchal MS, RDN: Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) jobs are in high demand due to the current health crisis as more patients are facing chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and hypertension. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the number of jobs for registered dietitians and nutritionists will increase by 11% between 2018 and 2028. There are numerous opportunities for registered dietitians to provide medical nutrition therapy within different settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, outpatient clinics, higher education, and school nutrition as well as state and federal government related positions. As the program director responsible for the education of entry level RDNs, I encourage my graduates to pursue opportunities that they are passionate about as they begin their professional careers. There are so many diverse roles and positions within the field of food and nutrition that an RDN is well equipped for!
What general advice would you give to a Consultant Dietitian?
Dr. Lacie Peterson PhD, RDN, BC-ADM, CDCES, FADCES, FAND: To optimize your earning potential in the field, developing and using negotiation skills that effectively convey your value to prospective employers is crucial. Many employers may underestimate or not understand the breadth of what you bring to the table.
What Consultant Dietitian skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dr. Lacie Peterson PhD, RDN, BC-ADM, CDCES, FADCES, FAND: When considering a career in dietetics, early engagement with practicing professionals is important to learn more about career options. Seek opportunities to connect with dietitians during your academic journey and embrace networking to build relationships within the field.
What will help Consultants Dietitian increase their earning potential?
Dr. Lacie Peterson PhD, RDN, BC-ADM, CDCES, FADCES, FAND: Looking ahead, the landscape of dietetics is evolving, emphasizing the importance of expanding clinical skills as well as leadership skills.
Emma Laing PhD, RDN, FAND
Clinical ProfessorUniversity of Georgia
Dietetics And Clinical Nutrition Services
What general advice would you give to a Consultant Dietitian?
Emma Laing PhD, RDN, FAND: Pursue trainings and seek advice from mentors about effective interviewing and negotiating skills. Always negotiate – if a higher salary cannot be granted, then negotiate for updated software or equipment, moving expenses, or job-related perks. Take chances and apply for jobs that you might not necessarily feel qualified for. Persistence is key. If you do not receive the job offer you were hoping, harness your disappointment and use it to keep applying to other positions. Say ‘yes’ to partnerships in or outside of dietetics that align with your values. There are many ways to leverage your expertise in freelance work, e.g., public speaking, consulting, tutoring, marketing, developing recipes, partnering with brands, as well as writing, editing, and publishing in media spaces. Many RDNs operate part-time or full-time private practices or offer online courses for both clients and other professionals, and these can be quite lucrative.
What Consultant Dietitian skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Emma Laing PhD, RDN, FAND: Believe in yourself and your abilities. Even with rigorous education, new graduates can suffer from imposter syndrome. Dietetics is a challenging STEM major within nationally-accredited undergraduate programs. New registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) not only have formal training in STEM, but they also have a minimum of a master’s degree and approximately 1,000 hours of supervised practice experience before they can become credentialed and licensed to practice. Being confident in what you know and taking advantage of continuing education opportunities will help squash feelings of insecurity. One of the best ways to pursue continuing education is to attend conferences in order to expand both your knowledge and your professional network. Our field is relatively small, so it’s important to get to know as many practitioners as you can in both in and outside of dietetics.
What will help Consultants Dietitian increase their earning potential?
Emma Laing PhD, RDN, FAND: In the next 3-5 years, it will become more imperative than ever to prioritize social determinants of health and acknowledge your implicit biases in order to provide the best care to your patients and clients. While you should be confident in your abilities, it’s impossible to know the answer to every question. Admit when you do not have the answer and then refer to evidence-based resources or consult with coworkers, colleagues, and other experts in the field in order to find it. Use motivational interviewing techniques to involve your patients in decision making and become familiar with a variety of counseling methods that you can add to your toolbox. Seek feedback regularly and be open to accepting suggestions and improving your skills. You’re never too advanced in your career to seek additional training and supervision. Remember that healthcare is a team sport, and leaning on your coworkers and building relationships with other members of the care team will foster respect and collaboration. Offer to be a preceptor to the next generation of dietitians. There is a lot of satisfaction in mentoring others, and it might surprise you how much you can learn from them as well.
What general advice would you give to a Consultant Dietitian?
Jill DeJager MPH, RDN: As graduates enter the field of dietetics, it is advantageous to have some motivational interviewing experience and be intentional about further honing motivational interviewing skills in their new position. This is especially important for dietitians who will be providing nutrition education and medical nutrition therapy, but strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for all areas of dietetics. Cultural competence is also a priority. Finally, don’t worry if your first job after passing the RD/RDN exam is not your dream job. Make sure you are networking and building strong connections with other dietitians and health care professionals wherever you are.
What Consultant Dietitian skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Jill DeJager MPH, RDN: Cultural competence and strong communication skills will continue to be important in the field of dietetics. Being knowledgeable about the eating patterns and customs of cultures other than your own can help customize meal plans and dietary advice in a way that honors individual preferences. Additionally, having motivational interviewing skills and the ability to effectively communicate valuable nutrition information will be crucial for dietitians in the next 3-5 years.
What will help Consultants Dietitian increase their earning potential?
Jill DeJager MPH, RDN: To maximize salary potential when starting a career in dietetics, it is important to be familiar with salaries in the area and have realistic expectations for negotiation during the hiring process. Taking advantage of retirement contributions and continuing education funds for conferences and seminars can also help. Additionally, standing out as a reliable and positive team member, expanding skill sets through volunteering for public speaking or new projects, and demonstrating leadership skills can contribute to maximizing salary potential.
What general advice would you give to a Consultant Dietitian?
Dinah Dalder: Critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills will continue to be important. RDNs will need to continue to be self-motivated and adaptable as new information and technologies are always expected in the food and nutrition field.
What Consultant Dietitian skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Dinah Dalder: Be prepared with questions about benefits and salary when interviewing for a position. When evaluating an offer be sure to evaluate benefits as well as the salary and don't be afraid to ask for more if the offer does not meet your expectations. Be ready to negotiate as part of the hiring process.
What will help Consultants Dietitian increase their earning potential?
Dinah Dalder: I suggest students keep track of the names and contact information of RDNs and other food and nutrition professionals that they meet and stay in touch while in school. Having a network is a great way to find that first job and jobs in the future.
What general advice would you give to a Consultant Dietitian?
Catherine Palmer: We have an aging population, and the field of dietetics will continue to grow. As more people take control of their health and become interested in nutrition and its impact on health, disease prevention, and management, more and more people will seek the expertise of an RDN.
What Consultant Dietitian skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Catherine Palmer: One of the great things about becoming a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) is that there are endless opportunities for what one can do with their degree. RDNs work in various settings within healthcare, public health and community, private practice, government, research, and education. While RDNs are medical professionals, they are not limited to working in clinical areas. One dietitian may work in the hospital providing medical nutrition therapy, while another may provide 1:1 nutrition counseling to someone with an eating disorder. Another RDN may work with a professional sports team, while another works to create recipes for a major food company. One dietitian may work in school nutrition, while another may be a researcher at a university. With endless options as an RDN, it’s impossible to outline a standard typical day.
What will help Consultants Dietitian increase their earning potential?
Catherine Palmer: RDNs enjoy having a vast array of career opportunities from which to choose. The possibilities are endless! RDNs make a difference in the lives and health of others. The frustration of being a dietitian is constantly having to combat the self-proclaimed “nutrition experts.” RDNs have a master’s degree, have completed 1000 hours of experiential training/internship, and have passed a credentialing exam. RDNs are the nutrition experts.
Shannon Aguilar MS,RD,LD
Assistant Professor of Practice, Didactic Program DirectorWhat Consultant Dietitian skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Shannon Aguilar MS,RD,LD: Be sure to highlight other skills/experience/volunteer work related to nutrition field, such as positions held in student and/or professional nutrition organizations. Explaining what the job responsibilities were and valuing your worth, but understand you still need to gain experience before reaching maximum salary allowance for the job position. If you weren't a member of professional organization, become one and volunteer in your community in positions related to nutrition such as local food bank or other health-related organizations. Continued education in nutrition related topics, which is already an RD requirement, can also help highlight your knowledge for salary potential. Also, any unique skills such as expert in certain social media platforms or other experience not all dietitians have such as IT.
What general advice would you give to a Consultant Dietitian?
Shannon Aguilar MS,RD,LD: Nutrition is constantly changing so staying up to date with current trends, nutrigenomics, food insecurity/food sustainability, social media basics if pursuing consulting field, and cooking skills/classes to engage your patients/clients for real-world skills.
What will help Consultants Dietitian increase their earning potential?
Shannon Aguilar MS,RD,LD: Learn from each job and take something with you as you grow your skills, knowledge, and experience. Don't be upset/discouraged if you don't get the perfect job first. Eventually, you will learn your strengths and areas of interest may change during your career. Think outside the box and there are so many opportunities for dietitian's that you may not think of so collaborating with other dietitian's through professional organizations like eatrigh.org and/or your state affiliation organization and dietetic practice groups (DPG's) in your area of interest.
Tara Kelly MS, RDN
InstructorUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham
Dietetics And Clinical Nutrition Services
What general advice would you give to a Consultant Dietitian?
Tara Kelly MS, RDN: For starters, apply to the job. Even if you're worried that you don't meet every qualification listed it is absolutely worth applying to any job you're interested in, because you'll never know if you're the employers ideal candidate unless you try. There are ample specialty trainings and certifications you can enroll in as a graduate to continue refining your expertise, make yourself more marketable, and increase your earning potential. You can also do this by continuing your education to earn an advanced degree or other specialty education to help you in your profession. These may not be dietetics-specific, but skills like being able to do statistics or speak a foreign language could help in certain job settings. If you're not sure where to start with this, look at those job postings that you currently don't think you qualify for and take note of the qualifications on the listing that you feel you're lacking. Are any of these skills that you can learn to make yourself a more qualified applicant for jobs like this and others like it?
What Consultant Dietitian skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Tara Kelly MS, RDN: Being able to effectively communicate nutrition information to consumers from all backgrounds and walks of life is a skill I believe will always be important in this field. As a society we are also growing accustomed to getting information quickly and in smaller doses (think, social media!), so being able to communicate important, science-based nutrition information in brief, concise ways is a very important skill today and I believe will be even more important in the years to come. Additionally, the personalized approach to nutrition care is only going to continue to become more and more important in the coming years. There's a growing, societal interest in being more mindful of our health and the foods we consume to nourish ourselves, and, with this, I believe many more people will proactively seek guidance from professionals to best meet their unique nutritional needs.
What will help Consultants Dietitian increase their earning potential?
Tara Kelly MS, RDN: There's still so much to learn as a new graduate, and one of the best ways I think graduates can continue to learn as early career professionals is by networking with and learning from others in the profession. You can even begin doing this before you graduate! Networking is a great way to get to know others in the profession and learn more about the field in general, including different types of dietetics jobs you may have never considered before. Plus, you never know what unique opportunities networking may lead to. There's still so much to learn as a new graduate, so don't be afraid to seek out connections, ask questions, and continue learning.
What general advice would you give to a Consultant Dietitian?
Dr. Sandra Poirier: * Definitely technology skills, i.e. AI, and any new computer program that will be developed for maintaining patient's records.
* Understanding the aging population and how those skills working with that aging population are very different than other life stages.
* Telehealth skills using the phone and videos to meet virtually and work with patients.
Micheline Orlowsky
Clinical Coordinator for the Dietetic InternshipMarywood University
Nutrition & Dietetics Department
What skills stand out on Consultant Dietitian resumes?
Micheline Orlowsky: Leadership roles, Volunteer experiences in the profession, passion for the profession.
What soft skills should all Consultants Dietitian possess?
Micheline Orlowsky: Time management, work ethic, organization, ability to prioritize tasks, communication, and negotiation skills.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Consultants Dietitian?
Micheline Orlowsky: Management and analytical skills, critical thinking, marketing skills.
What skills will help Consultants Dietitian earn the most?
Micheline Orlowsky: Communication skills, management and leadership experience. The ability to market yourself as an expert in the field.
Libby MacQuillan Ph.D.
Program Director, Applied Food and Nutrition DPD Program, Assistant Professor, Clinical Dietetics Coordinated Graduate ProgramGrand Valley State University
School of Interdisciplinary Health
What soft skills should all Consultants Dietitian possess?
Libby MacQuillan Ph.D.: In nutrition and dietetics, we communicate closely with our patients and clients about topics that are often sensitive or difficult, such as behavioral change. So, teaching, counseling, and general communication skills are key.
Lorraine Danowski Ph.D.
Associate Director SBU DI programStony Brook University
Department of Family, Population & Preventive Medicine
What hard/technical skills are most important for Consultants Dietitian?
Lorraine Danowski Ph.D.: Excellent phone skills, computer skills with the EMR and programs used by the food service industry, and some excel would be beneficial.
What skills will help Consultants Dietitian earn the most?
Lorraine Danowski Ph.D.: The ones I have listed. All Healthcare needs to operate at the top of their abilities as we are fast-paced and show no signs of slowing down.
Natalie Cooke PhD, RDN
Assistant Professor and Director of Undergraduate Programs for Nutrition ScienceNorth Carolina State University
What skills stand out on Consultant Dietitian resumes?
Natalie Cooke PhD, RDN: Students need to seek out opportunities to gain both technical, discipline-specific, and more general, "soft" skills. A strong resume for a student graduating with a degree in nutrition science will include relevant hands-on experience in addition to strong academic credentials. These experiences include paid and unpaid internships and jobs in nutrition and health-related settings, including community-based and clinical settings; undergraduate research experience in nutrition, food science, or other life science disciplines; undergraduate teaching experience where students serve as teaching assistants for life science courses; volunteer experience with nonprofit organizations; and leadership experience through involvement with clubs and other on- and off-campus organizations.
Skills gained through these various experiences might include being able to (1) design and conduct a research study under the direction of a faculty member, (2) read and interpret scientific literature to make a judgment about the evidence for a nutrition-related topic, (3) effectively communicate scientific information in an accessible way through community-based nutrition education, (4) create an eye-catching and informative handout, social media post, or article for a blog, or (5) demonstrate critical thinking standards while providing feedback to others.
What soft skills should all Consultants Dietitian possess?
Natalie Cooke PhD, RDN: In June 2020, the Association of Public and Land Grant Universities released two reports, one quantitative and one qualitative, on gaps in employability skills (https://www.aplu.org/news-and-media/News/aplu-releases-two-reports-on-gaps-in-employability-skills-and-workforce-preparedness-among-college-graduates). As the Executive Summary (https://www.aplu.org/library/from-academia-to-the-workforce-executive-summary/file) reports, the 11 skills that were identified as "critical growth areas" include: (1) understanding role in the workplace and having realistic career expectations, (2) recognizing and dealing constructively with conflict, (3) accepting and applying critique and direction in the workplace, (4) listening effectively, (5) communicating accurately and concisely, (6) realizing the effect of decisions, (7) building professional relationships, (8) navigating change and ambiguity, (9) identifying and analyzing problems, (10) transferring knowledge from one situation to another, and (11) asking good questions.
Additionally, critical thinking is an essential skill for nutrition science professionals, including being able to critically evaluate scientific literature about a topic to inform decision-making and information shared with the public. Nutrition scientists want to make sure that they are sharing information with the public that is based on research. Teamwork is also an essential skill needed in any setting, but especially in healthcare settings, where work is often collaborative with many members of the healthcare team. Similarly, in a research setting, interdisciplinary work is highly valued. Empathy is also essential for healthcare providers.
What hard/technical skills are most important for Consultants Dietitian?
Natalie Cooke PhD, RDN: Different fields in healthcare will have competencies that they expect their professionals to have mastered. For example, a working group from the Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior created a list of Nutrition Educator Competencies for Promoting Healthy Individuals, Communities, and Food Systems (https://www.sneb.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Competencies_Page_21.pdf). These competencies are organized into ten categories: (1) Basic Food and Nutrition Knowledge; (2) Nutrition Across the Lifecycle; (3) Food Science; (4) Physical Activity; (5) Food and Nutrition Policy; (6) Agricultural Production and Food Systems; (7) Behavior and Education Theory; (8) Nutrition Education Program Design, Implementation, and Evaluation; (9) Written, Oral, and Social Media Communication; and (10) Nutrition Education Research Methods. A technical skill for a nutrition educator in the area of "Written, Oral, and Social Media Communication" is: "Engage and educate through simple, clear, and motivational language appropriate for diverse audiences." These technical or discipline-focused skills can be gained through engaging in internships and gaining work experience under the direction of nutrition educators and/or registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs).
One way to learn what hard/technical skills are required of jobs is to start looking at job descriptions years before planning to apply for a job. That way, a student can carefully select experiences to help develop those skills over time, making them a stronger applicant for the job they wish to apply for in the future.
Samantha Coogan
Director, Didactic Program in Nutrition & Dietetics / Lecturer, Undergraduate Coordinator, Nutrition SciencesUniversity of Nevada, Las Vegas
School of Integrated Health Sciences
What general advice would you give to a Consultant Dietitian?
Samantha Coogan: - Holding leadership roles can be a potential negotiation tool as it shows a willingness to grow and be goal-oriented. Don't be afraid to negotiate and advocate for yourself, even early on. Recognize your worth and time commitment to your education. Working with a recruiter/career coach or a colleague in the field can help practice negotiation skills.
What Consultant Dietitian skills would you recommend for someone trying to advance their career?
Samantha Coogan: - Emotional intelligence, Critical thinking, Empathy, Ability to use/adapt to technology. These skills are important now and will continue to be in the future. Professionals need to decipher fact from fiction and navigate new technologies like AI and telehealth.
What will help Consultants Dietitian increase their earning potential?
Samantha Coogan: - Get involved in professional organizations, such as the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, but even more so in your local state affiliate. For example, I live in Nevada, so I'm part of the Nevada Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (NvAND). Not only are they great for networking and job opportunities, but also for leadership roles. Seeing newer professionals getting involved in leadership roles is a standout on a resume, and helps employers recognize your dedication to advancing the profession. It might also help with future promotions down the line, and will really help you improve your emotional intelligence/ability to work under pressure.
- Be open to feedback/constructive criticism, and learn to take that feedback with grace. When done properly, constructive criticism can help you evolve as a professional. Adding to that, the ability to self-reflect/evaluate to make improvements.
Ellen Shanley
Dietetics DirectorUniversity of Connecticut
Deptartment of Allied Health Sciences
What soft skills should all Consultants Dietitian possess?
Ellen Shanley: I see flexibility and adaptability as number 1. We know that life can change in a moment and we all need to be poised to flexible. Interpersonal skills are always important. Everyone has some much more on their plates today and many people are feeling the stress. We need to be able to empathize with all. Problem solving is another one. We need to be sure we can think critically and come up solution for issues in the workplace.
What's a day at work look like for a Consultant Dietitian?
Ellen Shanley: Individuals working in clinical positions in hospitals and long-term care facilities will continue to be face-to-face in the work environment and most likely will not be able to do nutrition focused physical exams by touching patients but will need to do more visual assessments. I believe we will continue to telehealth in many outpatient settings. I have students going into school nutrition jobs and I see them needing to be very flexible and creative in all they do!
Kevin Sauer Ph.D.
ProfessorKansas State University
Department of Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health
Will there be an enduring impact of the coronavirus pandemic on Consultants Dietitian?
Kevin Sauer Ph.D.: Most likely. Registered dietitian nutritionists (RNDs) are essential members of health care teams and provide specialized nutrition care for patients. Treatments for COVID-19 include screening for nutritional deficiencies and formulating individual nutritional plans. People with serious underlying medical conditions are at higher risk for developing more serious and potentially long-term complications from COVID-19 and RDNs have increased their capacity to provide nutritional care directly within medical centers and also through telehealth, to reach the most vulnerable clients. Indeed, all organizations are changing and will continue to change their structures and essentially, how they conduct business in the short and long-term due to the impacts of the pandemic. Graduates who monitor and adapt to the ever-changing organizations, and bring solutions under these conditions, will thrive the most.
What soft skills should all Consultants Dietitian possess?
Kevin Sauer Ph.D.: The traditional collection of commonly known soft skills will remain essential - communication, teamwork, flexibility, critical thinking and so forth. So, I recommend some additional humility skills. First, saying thank you and showing gratitude with sincerity in a vital skill. Giving credit where credit is due, especially when one is gaining from the hard work and thought of others. This fosters teamwork and trust, especially under stressful conditions. Third, practice forming an authentic and genuine apology, since it will be necessary at one point or another. Finally, maintaining systems-thinking and forming solutions around root causes of problems will advance graduates along their career paths.
What certifications/licenses/courses can have the biggest impact for Consultants Dietitian?
Kevin Sauer Ph.D.: Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) are THE food and nutrition experts who have met rigorous qualifications to earn the credentials. The RD credential indicates to employers and the public that a practitioner has completed minimum educational requirements at a US regionally accredited university or college and course work accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND) of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. All coursework is essential and includes food and nutrition sciences, foodservice systems, business, and science courses. RDNs have also completed an ACEND-accredited supervised practice, passed a national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) and completed continuing professional educational requirements to maintain registration.