Clinical Dietician at Appalachian Regional Healthcare System – Boone, North Carolina

Clinical Dietitian

Location: Boone, North Carolina | Clinical Nutrition Services | Non-Exempt

Why You’ll Love Working Here

As a Clinical Dietitian at UNC Health Appalachian, you will play a vital role in delivering patient-centered nutrition care across the continuum. You’ll collaborate with an interdisciplinary healthcare team to provide medical nutrition therapy (MNT) that supports patient outcomes, recovery, and overall well-being.

This role is ideal for a clinically driven, detail-oriented professional who is passionate about improving patient health through evidence-based nutrition practices while contributing to quality improvement and operational excellence.

Compensation: Starts at $26.81 per hour, based on education, experience, and internal equity

Status: Non-Exempt
Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage; retirement plan with employer match; paid time off; tuition reimbursement; wellness incentives; and additional employee support programs. Benefits begin the first of the month following 60 days of employment from new hire orientation.

Located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Boone, North Carolina offers exceptional outdoor recreation, vibrant community living, and outstanding quality of life.

What You’ll Do as a Clinical Dietitian Medical Nutrition Therapy

• Assess patient nutritional needs and develop individualized medical nutrition therapy plans.

• Implement and monitor nutrition interventions aligned with patient diagnoses and treatment goals.

• Provide nutrition counseling and education to patients and families.

Clinical Collaboration

• Work closely with physicians, nurses, and interdisciplinary teams to coordinate care.

• Support patient-centered treatment planning and clinical decision-making.

• Communicate effectively with care teams to ensure continuity of care.

Quality & Performance Improvement

• Participate in performance improvement initiatives to enhance patient outcomes.

• Utilize evidence-based standards of care and best practices.

• Manage resources effectively and contribute to cost-efficient care delivery.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate documentation in accordance with regulatory standards.

• Ensure compliance with hospital policies, procedures, and licensure requirements.

• Maintain professional competency and continuing education.

Qualifications Minimum Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Dietetics, Foods and Nutrition, or related field from an accredited institution

Experience

• 1–2 years of related experience preferred but not required

• Previous healthcare experience in an acute or clinical setting preferred

Licensure & Certifications

• Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist (RD/RDN) credential through the Commission on Dietetic Registration

• Licensed with the North Carolina Board of Dietetics/Nutrition

• Basic Life Support (BLS) from the American Heart Association required at time of hire

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong communication skills with ability to interact effectively with patients, families, and healthcare teams

• Ability to deliver safe and effective patient care within licensure and regulatory guidelines

• Strong organizational and time management skills with ability to work independently

• Commitment to exceptional customer service and patient-centered care

• Basic computer skills including word processing, spreadsheets, and nutritional analysis tools

Physical Requirements

• Manual dexterity and mobility for clinical responsibilities

• Prolonged sitting, standing, and walking

• Near visual acuity for detailed documentation and patient care tasks

Work Environment

• Regular exposure to bloodborne pathogens and clinical environments

• Exposure to electrical/mechanical equipment, chemicals, and specimens

• Requires flexibility for irregular hours, including days, evenings, nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call coverage

• Extended standing and walking during shifts (4+ hours)

• Frequent repetitive hand and wrist movements and close visual work

About UNC Health Appalachian
UNC Health Appalachian is a premier healthcare provider in the High Country, operating three hospitals and a variety of medical services. We are committed to improving the health and quality of life for residents of the region.

About UNC Health
As part of the University of North Carolina system, UNC Health includes 14 hospitals and over 500 clinics, dedicated to advancing the health and well-being of North Carolinians.

Diversity and Inclusion
UNC Health Appalachian is committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences. Employment is contingent upon successful background checks and drug screening. For accommodations or additional information, contact arhsrecruitment@unchealth.unc.edu.