A Dietary Aide works in kitchens such as hospital kitchens where cooking is done to meet specific dietary requirements. Assists with food preparation and other tasks.
The Dietary Aide supports the Dietary Department by assisting with food preparation, meal assembly, tray service, sanitation, and kitchen operations while ensuring compliance with food safety and infection prevention standards. This position contributes to providing high-quality nutritional services for patients, employees, and visitors by maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient food service environment.
Essential Job Functions:
Food Preparation & Meal Service Prepare food items according to standardized recipes and portion guidelines. Assemble and distribute patient meal trays accurately according to prescribed diets. Assist with serving meals to patients, staff, and visitors. Ensure food is served at appropriate temperatures while maintaining quality standards. Dietary Compliance Follow physician-ordered therapeutic diets and special dietary restrictions. Verify patient meal trays for accuracy before service. Report discrepancies or dietary concerns to the Dietary Manager. Sanitation & Food Safety Maintain compliance with food safety regulations, infection prevention practices, and departmental policies. Wash dishes, utensils, pots, pans, and kitchen equipment. Clean and sanitize workstations, equipment, storage areas, and dining spaces. Properly store food according to HACCP guidelines. Inventory & Kitchen Operations Assist with stocking food, supplies, and equipment. Rotate inventory using FIFO principles. Notify the Dietary Manager when supplies need replenished. Assist with receiving and storing deliveries. Customer Service & Teamwork Provide courteous and professional service to patients, visitors, and coworkers. Work collaboratively with dietary staff and other hospital departments. Maintain flexibility in completing assigned duties based on department needs Qualifications Required High school diploma or equivalent preferred. Preferred Previous food service, dietary, or healthcare experience. Core Competencies Strong customer service skills with a commitment to providing courteous, respectful service to patients, visitors, and coworkers. Ability to work effectively as part of a team while maintaining positive working relationships. Organizational and time-management skills with the ability to prioritize daily responsibilities. High level of accuracy and attention to detail when preparing meals and following dietary instructions. Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and infection prevention practices. Professionalism, dependability, and accountability in completing assigned responsibilities. Ability to adapt to changing priorities while maintaining a clean, safe, and efficient work environment.
Working Conditions:
Primarily in a kitchen and food service environment with frequent exposure to heat, steam, and food preparation equipment. The role requires prolonged standing, walking, bending, and lifting up to 50 pounds. This job description is intended to summarize key responsibilities and requirements. Duties may change at any time. HCHS is an equal opportunity employer.
