Dietetic Technician Career & Jobs: Training, Salary & Certification Requirements

These days it seems like more and more people are becoming concerned about their appearance and overall health. People are realizing that the foods that they choose to eat on a regular basis can have a big impact on the way they feel, look and interact with others. For people that are struggling with weight issues, or trying to manage a disease through their diet, it is important to have the advice of a professional to make sure their bodies are getting the nutrition that they needs every step of the way. Dietetic technicians act as assistants to registered dieticians. Their main responsibilities include determining the nutritional needs of their clients, and helping them to create and maintain a diet plan that will allow them to remain as healthy as possible.

Salary Outlook

Average Annual Salary
$27,800
Salary Range
$21,500 - $33,900

Work Environment

Because dieticians often work in a wide variety of professional settings, there are a lot of opportunities for dietetic technicians to work in different industries and locations. Most often, dietetic technicians are employed at hospitals, private practices, nursing homes, in the public school system, at research facilities, and in the correctional system.

High School Preparation

It is important for students that are interested in pursuing a career as a dietetic technician to gain a strong educational foundation in the sciences and human health systems while they are in high school. Subjects that should be taken include algebra, biology, chemistry, physical education, and psychology. It is also helpful to take any available courses in medical business management, speech, communications and anatomy or nutrition.

Requirements

Once students have successfully completed high school or received the equivalent of a high school diploma, most employers will require that they enroll in a two year dietetic technician program that is offered at a community college or junior college that is accredited by the American Dietetic Association. It is most important to seek out a program that allows you to gain knowledge in the classroom as well as the field. Upon completion of coursework, students will have to pass the Commission on Dietetic Registration’s national certification exam in order to become registered.

Career Outlook

Experts agree that the number of job opportunities that are available to dietetic technicians should increase by at least the national average, which means that ten to twenty percent more jobs will be available over the course of the next few years. Both aging populations and young children need to have access to healthy diets in order to remain active, and dietetic technicians are at the forefront of planning and educating the public on how to eat well.

Professional Organization

American Dietetic Association
216 West Jackson Blvd., Suite 800
Chicago, IL 60606
Phone: (800) 877-1600
www.eatright.org