Service Year Option - Nutrition Services Assistant

Job Summary

The Nutrition Services Assistant supports patient care by preparing, delivering, and managing meals according to dietary guidelines. This role works closely with clinical and food service teams to ensure patients receive safe, accurate, and timely nutrition that supports their recovery and overall health.

Minimum Qualifications

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required
• Maryland resident
• Individuals eligible for the Maryland Service Year Program (generally ages 18-24)
• Experience: Food service, customer service, or healthcare experience preferred
• Licensure/Certification: None required
• Skills & Abilities:
• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Ability to follow dietary instructions and safety guidelines
• Attention to detail and accuracy
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Basic knowledge of food preparation and sanitation practices

What You'll Do

• Prepare, assemble, and deliver meals to patients
• Follow specific dietary orders (e.g., low sodium, diabetic, allergen restrictions)
• Communicate with patients about meal preferences and dietary needs
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation in kitchen and food service areas
• Monitor and restock food supplies and equipment
• Document meal orders, changes, and patient dietary information
• Collaborate with dietitians, nurses, and food service staff

What the Job is Really Like

• The role is fast-paced and physically active, with constant movement
• Timing is critical-meals must be delivered on schedule
• You'll need to balance accuracy with speed, especially for specialized diets
• Patient interaction is frequent and requires empathy and patience
• Work can be repetitive but requires strong attention to detail
• Strict sanitation and safety standards must be followed at all times

Work Environment & Demands

• Kitchen and hospital environment with frequent movement
• Regular standing, walking, and lifting trays or supplies
• Exposure to food service equipment and sanitation protocols
• Requires attention to detail and adherence to safety standards
• Team-oriented and deadline-driven environment

What Success Looks Like

• Meals are delivered accurately, safely, and on time
• Patients receive appropriate diets and feel supported
• Food safety and sanitation standards are consistently met
• Strong communication with care team and patients
• You maintain efficiency and accuracy during busy periods

Caring for Our Team

We offer a comprehensive benefits package to support our employees' well-being and professional growth. Benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance available starting the 1st of the month following date of hire, along with life insurance, & short and long-term disability coverage. Paid Time Off begins accruing from day one, and we also provide a 401k plan, an education assistance program, and an employee assistance program. Additionally, employees working evening, night, or weekend shifts may be eligible for a shift differential, adding even more value to your role.

Happy to Help

At Meritus, we believe in a collaborative and caring work environment. Interactions are an opportunity to learn, listen and to be there for one another. Therefore, we provide warm welcomes, hospitality-driven closures, and are always Happy to Help.