Nutrition Education Specialist

JOB SUMMARY & ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

The Nutrition Education Specialist (NES) assists patients with access to Community Health Nutrition Programs (CHNP) including the Women Infants & Children (WIC) program, nutritional/breastfeeding counseling, education and training, determines patient eligibility for program services, assesses patients’ nutrition, breastfeeding and health-related needs, and provides services according to Valle Del Sol’s policies and procedures under basic supervision.

• Assists WIC patients with information and services for a variety of Community Health Nutrition Programs (CHNP) including the Federal Women Infants & Children (WIC) program, Farmer’s Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) and other nutritional/breastfeeding counseling programs and support services and perform duties within scope of authority and training and in compliance with the Community Health Center’s policies.
• Interviews patients, documents income status and current living conditions, and determines eligibility for WIC services.
• Evaluate patients’ nutrition/breastfeeding and health-related needs, discusses and documents patients’ eating habits, health history, and current medical condition, and works with patients to develop personal goals and a nutrition/breastfeeding care plan.
• Counsels and educates patients on proper nutrition/breastfeeding practices, provide educational material and personalized information on CHNP and Valle del Sol programs, and refers patients to other providers as needed.
• Measures height/weight and hemoglobin (blood) testing.
• Assists patients with accessing other health care professionals, regional agencies, and community services programs.
• Maintains patients’ case file records & collects, compiles, and reports data on program participation.
• Assists with community outreach programs and special projects as assigned.
• Maintains absolute confidentiality of work-related issues, patients’ records, and restricted County information.
• Performs other related duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

• 18 years of age or older: and
• High School Diploma/GED & no experience; or
• Diet Tech Registered (DTR) or Bachelor’s Degree and no experience; or
• Bachelor’s Degree with WIC experience

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Must have strong verbal and written communication skills
• Proficient in Microsoft Office 365 and familiar with Electronic Health Records systems
• Must be able to provide culturally sensitive services
• Must have or be able to obtain a valid Fingerprint Clearance Card
• Must possess reliable transportation, valid driver's license, and proof of auto insurance
• Basic Life Support trained or the ability to be trained within 10 business days from hire date
• TB Screening Record and PPD/QuantiFERON/Chest x-ray upon hire (as applicable)
• Vaccinations/Titer’s Test/Declination Form: Flu, Hep B, MMR, Tdap, Varicella
• Covid 19 Vaccination or Qualified Exemption (Religious or Medical)

WORKING CONDITIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Work Environment

This position may operate in clinical, office, or community settings including clinics, administrative offices, outreach locations, client homes, partner agencies, and community sites. Employees may interact with individuals experiencing behavioral health challenges, emotional distress, or complex social needs. Standard safety precautions and personal protective equipment (PPE) may be required as applicable.

Physical Requirements

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Typical requirements may include:

• Sitting, standing, walking, bending, and reaching for extended periods
• Operating computers, mobile devices, and standard office or clinical equipment
• Travel to various Valle del Sol locations or community sites when required
• Lifting or moving materials or equipment up to 25 pounds

Schedule & Travel

Work schedules may vary based on program needs and may include evening or weekend hours. Some positions may require local travel between Valle del Sol sites or community locations.

Equipment

Employees may operate standard office, clinical, and communication equipment including computers, phones, printers, electronic health record systems, laptops, and mobile devices.

COMPLIANCE REQUIREMENTS

Employees must maintain compliance with all Valle del Sol policies and applicable regulatory requirements, which may include:

• Licensure, certification, credentialing, and/or privileging requirements applicable to the position.
• Required immunizations and occupational health clearances.
• Tuberculosis (TB) testing and Hepatitis B screening or declination, when applicable.
• Arizona Level I Fingerprint Clearance Card when required by law or program.
• Valid driver’s license and acceptable driving record when operating a vehicle for company business.
• Completion and maintenance of required training, certifications, and continuing education.

Failure to obtain or maintain required credentials, clearances, or compliance requirements may impact eligibility for employment or continued assignment in the role.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Valle del Sol is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. Valle del Sol is committed to providing a work environment free from discrimination and harassment.

Reasonable Accommodations Statement

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the essential functions of the position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

If you require a reasonable accommodation to apply for a position or to participate in the interview process, please contact us at VdSHR@valledelsol.com.

Additional Information

This job description has been reviewed to ensure that essential functions and basic duties have been included. It is intended to provide guidelines for job expectations and the employee's ability to perform the position described. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills, and abilities or a contract of employment. Management reserves the right to modify, add, or remove duties as necessary.

Applicants must be authorized to work for ANY employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

Benefits

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Paid Life Insurance
• Paid Disability Insurance
• Paid time off
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discount
• Professional development assistance
• Referral program
• Particpation in the NHSC Loan Repayment Program for qualifying positions!

Make an Impact Where it Matters Most

Join Valle del Sol in our commitment to providing quality, culturally sensitive integrated primary care and behavioral health services to adults, children, and adolescents in need. Valle del Sol offers a diverse work environment, competitive pay and benefits, and the opportunity for training and advancement.