Dietary Aide

JOB SUMMARY

• To provide assistance in all dietary functions as directed, in accordance with current Federal, State, and local standards, guidelines and regulations, and facility policies.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school education or equivalent.
• One (1) year dietary experience in a hospital, skilled nursing facility, or other related medical facility preferred (but not necessary).
• Must be able to follow oral and written instructions.
• Must be able to read, write, and speak the English language in an understandable manner.
• Must possess the ability to deal tactfully with residents, family members, visitors, personnel, government agencies/personnel and the general public.
• Must possess the ability and willingness to work harmoniously with other personnel.
• Must have patience, tact, cheerful disposition, and enthusiasm.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Must be able to move intermittently throughout the workday.
• Must be able to cope with the mental and emotional stress of the position.
• Must possess sight/hearing senses or use prosthetics that will enable these senses to function adequately so that the requirements of this position can be fully met.
• Must function independently, have flexibility, personal integrity, and the ability to work effectively with the resident, personnel, and support agencies.
• Must be in good general health and demonstrate emotional stability.
• Must be able to relate to and work with ill, disabled, emotionally upset, and at times hostile people within the facility.
• May be required to lift, push, pull, and move equipment, supplies, etc., in excess of fifty (50) pounds throughout the workday.
• Must be able to taste and smell food to determine quality and palatability.
• Is subject to exposure to infectious waste, diseases, conditions, etc., including exposure to the (HIV) AIDS and Hepatitis B viruses.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Assure that all Dietary procedures are followed in accordance with established policies.
• Work with the supervisor/designee as necessary to implement procedures and recommended changes as required.
• Maintain the care and use of supplies, equipment, and appearance of work areas in a clean, sanitary, and orderly fashion.
• Recommend to the supervisor the equipment and supply needs of the department.
• Review menu extensions prior to preparation of foods.
• Assist in preparation and serve meals per schedule.
• Return clean utensils to proper storage areas.
• Wash and clean dishes and utensils as directed.
• Carry out garbage and keep work areas clean, dry, and free of hazardous equipment, supplies, etc.
• Assist in arranging diet cards, serving meals, and loading trays on cart.
• Deliver food carts to designated areas.
• Remove food trays/carts from dining rooms and take to dish washing area.
• Prepare and deliver snacks as instructed.
• Prepare and serve foods that are palatable and appetizing in appearance.
• Serve food in accordance with established portion control procedures.
• Prepare food for therapeutic diets in accordance with planned menu extensions. (As appropriate).
• Prepare food in accordance with standardized recipes and special diet orders.
• Prepare food in accordance with sanitary regulations.
• Report all accidents/incidents to the supervisor.
• Report all hazardous conditions/equipment to the supervisor immediately.
• Assists in maintaining all food and supply storage areas in a clean and orderly manner at all times.
• Dispose of food and waste in accordance with established policies.
• Assists in receiving and storing of incoming food, supplies, etc.    as necessary.
• Attend staff meetings, and in-services etc. as scheduled.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.