Dietary Specialist

GENERAL SUMMARY

: The Dietary Specialist is familiar with all aspects of the Dietary department operations. The Specialist is responsible for learning and performing multiple food service functions including: preparing and serving nutritious meals to our patients, visitors and staff; cashiering, maintaining a clean and safe work environment. The Dietary Specialist must be aware of and adhere to special patient dietary restrictions and county Health Department regulations. The Dietary Specialist demonstrates excellence in customer service during interactions with employees, managers/supervisors, physicians, patients and patient family members, etc. Minimum Education, Training & Experience (includes licenses or certifications):

Education:

High school diploma or GED required. Current Food Handler's Certificate/Card for Klickitat County Health Department required. Able to read and write in English and perform basic math skills as it relates to preparing recipes, cashiering, cleaning chemical ratios and inventory, etc. Certification as a Food Protection Manager required (for staff who act as the Manager's replacement).

Experience:

Six (6) months food service experience within a healthcare facility preferred. Experience working with the public in a service-oriented environment preferred. Essential Functions/Responsibilities (but not limited to): Prepares food/meals using correct technique according to department standards and receipts, ensuring that proper procedures are followed, and that meals are palatable and presentable for service to patients, employees and guests. Assist with the planning and preparation of requests for special meals and/or events. Places food servings on plates/bowls and trays for employees and general customers, according to orders, or requests. Distributes food to patients ensuring that meals are delivered to the correct recipients and that guidelines for special diets are followed. Examine trays to ensure that they contain required items, including: eating utensils, napkins, and condiments. May perform cashiering function in the cafeteria to process sales for employees and the public. Retrieves dirty dishes/utensils for return to kitchen after meals are finished. Cleans and sterilizes dishes, kitchen utensils, equipment, and kitchen/dining room facilities. Stocks kitchen and dining room area with condiment supplies, napkins and other paper goods, as needed. Washes, drys and folds dietary linens for reuse as needed. Informs manager in a timely manner when supplies are getting low or equipment is not working properly. Assist with inventory control to meet demand, including unloading freight and stocking kitchen supplies. Ensures proper and safe use of dietary equipment, including the use of necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Practices appropriate safety precautions to avoid cuts, burns or other types of injury. Maintains a clean, safe, organized and orderly work station/area. Participates and supports the Performance Improvement (PI) process in department and makes recommendations for greater efficiency within department. Knowledgeable of and adheres to Washington State Department of Health requirements and/or other regulatory requirements; compliant with the department/hospital policies and procedures, educational requirements, corporate compliance, confidentially standards and the hospital's mission, etc. Performs other duties as assigned.