How to become a dietetic technician
Assist in the provision of food service and nutritional programs, under the supervision of a dietitian. May plan and produce meals based on established guidelines, teach principles of food and nutrition, or counsel individuals.
Steps to get there
Most employers expect most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree..Previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is required for these occupations. For example, an electrician must have completed three or four years of apprenticeship or several years of vocational training, and often must have passed a licensing exam, in order to perform the job.
What dietetic technicians do
- Prepare a major meal, following recipes and determining group food quantities.
- Select, schedule, or conduct orientation or in-service education programs.
- Observe and monitor patient food intake and body weight, and report changes, progress, and dietary problems to dietician.
- Conduct nutritional assessments of individuals, including obtaining and evaluating individuals' dietary histories, to plan nutritional programs.
- Supervise food production or service or assist dietitians or nutritionists in food service supervision or planning.
- Attend interdisciplinary meetings with other health care professionals to discuss patient care.
Skills that matter most
- Speaking
- Active Listening
- Reading Comprehension
- Writing
- Critical Thinking
- Active Learning
- Learning Strategies
- Monitoring
Is dietetic technician a good career?
On the numbers, this job is close to the average across occupations. Median pay is 26% below the all-occupation median. Whether it fits you depends on the work itself, the schooling you are willing to do and where you want to live.
Where it pays most
- Oregon $54,670
- New York $50,420
- Colorado $47,810
- Minnesota $47,610
- Washington $47,000
Dietetic Technicians salary by state and city
Sources: O*NET® 31.0 (CC BY 4.0, USDOL/ETA) and BLS Employment Projections 2025–35. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025.