Dietetic Technician/Care Coordinator

POSITION SUMMARY

The Dietetic Technician/Care Coordinator plays a vital role within Wellness Recovery Center's multidisciplinary treatment team, supporting the implementation of individualized nutrition care plans for clients in residential treatment for eating disorders and co-occurring conditions. Working in close collaboration with the Registered Dietitian and under the direction of the Clinical Director, the Dietetic Technician/Care Coordinator is responsible for the hands-on execution of meal service, meal support, nutrition education, kitchen operations, and the day-to-day safety and wellbeing of clients within the milieu. This role requires a compassionate, trauma-informed approach that aligns with WRC's narrative therapy framework and commitment to autonomy-centered, non-pathologizing care.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Meal Implementation & Support Implement individualized meal plans and dietary exchange patterns as designed in collaboration with the Registered Dietitian Provide structured, supportive meal monitoring during all scheduled mealtimes and snacks Observe and accurately document client eating behaviors, consumption levels, supplement distribution, and any concerns in the clinical record Offer compassionate, non-judgmental support to clients during challenging moments at meals Communicate observations to the Registered Dietitian and treatment team in a timely manner Maintain accurate records of meal compliance, supplement distribution, food inventory, and supply usage; ensure timely entry of data into electronic systems Kitchen & Food Service Operations Plan and prepare meals and snacks in accordance with established nutritional guidelines and client dietary needs Manage grocery shopping, inventory, and kitchen budget in coordination with the Registered Dietitian Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked kitchen that meets all food safety and sanitation standards Accommodate allergies, dietary restrictions, and medically necessary modifications as directed Ensure adherence to all applicable California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Title 22 food service regulations Apply principles of nutrition, food preparation and storage, menu planning, and housekeeping and sanitation in day-to-day kitchen operations Clinical Support & Documentation Assist in nutritional screenings and data collection in collaboration with the Registered Dietitian Maintain accurate, timely documentation of meal observations and client progress in accordance with facility policies, HIPAA, and Joint Commission standards Adhere to all HIPAA requirements and facility health and safety standards; report any concerns related to food handling, environment, or client wellbeing to the Clinical Director Ensure all required documentation is completed legibly, professionally, and submitted in a timely manner according to established protocols and within regulatory guidelines Maintain accurate and up-to-date reports on every client; continually update the bed list to ensure that all admissions and discharges are recorded in a timely fashion Participate in interdisciplinary team meetings and treatment planning as appropriate Contribute to the implementation of the comprehensive treatment plan within the milieu Respond appropriately to all medical and other emergencies; demonstrate knowledge of early signs of illness and when to escalate to clinical or medical staff Maintain familiarity with Universal Precautions and apply them consistently Psychoeducation & Groups Facilitate scheduled nutrition psychoeducation groups in alignment with the program curriculum Provide individualized guidance to clients on portion sizes, exchange patterns, and food choices in coordination with the Registered Dietitian Support clients in developing practical food-related skills (e.g., grocery shopping, meal prep) as clinically indicated Engage clients in therapeutic and recovery-oriented activities as appropriate to the program schedule Medication Assistance & Health Monitoring Provide assistance with prescribed medications that are self-administered, in accordance with facility protocols and scope of role Monitor and document clients for signs of medical distress and/or behavioral concerns on an ongoing basis Demonstrate knowledge of the medical and physiological consequences of eating disorders, including refeeding syndrome and how to avoid complications Identify and respond appropriately to unsafe or concerning eating disorder behaviors, escalating to clinical staff as warranted Safety, Milieu & Client Supervision Maintain continuous awareness of clients' whereabouts at all times, including during breaks and internal activities; report any discrepancies to the Clinical Director Assist with client wake-up and bedtime routines and escort clients on shopping trips, recreation outings, and medical appointments as needed Conduct room, common area, hallway, and bathroom checks every thirty minutes; perform thorough contraband searches no less than weekly Search all client bags upon admission to the facility; confiscate and secure any contraband found and notify the Clinical Director Maintain order and ensure compliance with program rules and regulations; ensure that clients conduct themselves in an orderly manner at all times Provide a brief orientation to the program for each new client, including an overview of program rules, procedures, and available services Distribute daily mail to clients in accordance with confidentiality standards Provide appropriate support and structure for clients in navigating their recovery; interact consistently and therapeutically with clients throughout the shift Serve as a positive role model and consistent, supportive presence in the treatment milieu; maintain professional boundaries with clients and staff at all times Must remain awake and alert for the entirety of each assigned shift Enforce program rules consistently and fairly Team Operations & Onboarding Ensure that all assigned duties specific to this role are completed each shift Support overall team operations and contribute to a collaborative, recovery-oriented milieu Assist with the onboarding of newly hired care coordinators and dietetic technicians to support an effective orientation process Attend all mandatory training, in-house conferences, and facility seminars Act as a role model for appropriate, professional behavior including proper client boundaries Maintain awareness of available community services and resources and communicate these to clients and staff as appropriate

QUALIFICATIONS

Required Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Dietetics, Nutrition, Food Science, or a related field; OR a minimum of two (2) years of experience in an eating disorder or behavioral health treatment setting High school diploma or GED equivalent (minimum) Working knowledge of dietary exchange systems, portion sizes, and caloric guidelines Understanding of the physical and psychological dimensions of eating disorders Strong written and verbal communication skills Strong organizational, communication, and documentation skills; ability to multitask and prioritize in a professional healthcare setting Ability to maintain calm, professional composure in high-acuity clinical environments Experience using electronic medical records (EMR) or data management systems Current Food Handler's Certificate or ServSafe Certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire) Current CPR/First Aid certification and TB clearance (or ability to obtain prior to start) Valid California Driver's License and reliable transportation Clearance through DOJ/FBI background check Ability to maintain confidentiality in a professional healthcare setting Preferred Registered Dietetic Technician (DTR) credential through the Commission on Dietetic Registration 1-2 years of prior experience in a residential eating disorder or behavioral health treatment setting Familiarity with narrative therapy, Health at Every Size (HAES), or weight-inclusive care frameworks Knowledge of nutrition principles, meal service coordination, and food safety protocols

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

This position operates in a residential treatment facility setting. The Dietetic Technician/Care Coordinator will regularly stand, walk, lift up to 30 pounds, and work in a kitchen environment. The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, talk, and listen; must occasionally assist in kitchen or supply areas. This role involves direct and sustained contact with clients who are in active recovery from disordered eating and may present with medically complex or emotionally intense needs. Candidates must demonstrate emotional resilience and a strong commitment to client dignity and autonomy.

OUR VALUES

Wellness Recovery Center is committed to building a treatment community rooted in compassion, inclusivity, and narrative-informed care. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds and lived experiences. We are especially interested in those who recognize that eating disorders can silence a person's sense of self — and who are dedicated to creating the conditions where each client can begin to hear their own voice again. WRC is an equal opportunity employer. NOTE This job description reflects the general duties and responsibilities required of the position and is not intended to be exhaustive. Management reserves the right to modify duties as necessary to support organizational and programmatic needs. Employment is at-will and may be terminated by either party at any time, with or without cause.

Pay:

$22.00 - $26.00 per hour

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Vision insurance Application Question(s): Do you have any experience working with ED clients? Do you have a valid drivers license/reliable transportation? Are you looking for AM,Swing or NOC?

Work Location:

In person