Informatics Dietitian is the subject matter expert responsible for Nutrition and Food Services (NFS) computer systems and serve as staff dietitians. This position manages VHA supported software programs and/or Commercial off the Shelf Systems (COTS) that focus on Nutrition and Food Services to include food production & food service operations; training and education of computer systems; collection and analysis of data, customer experience surveys, nutrient analysis, and workload statistics.

Duties

Relocation/Recruitment incentives may be authorized for Highly qualified applicants. Functions: a. Food Service and Production Participates in the selection, implementation and evaluation of automated nutrition systems. Provides system support to include testing, maintenance, enhancements and problem solving. Oversees automated information systems to support effective management of food operations and patient meal services. Monitors COTS purchased programs to ensure tracking of items, room service, full functionality and budget control. Manage the technology for meal production, service, labeling, temperature control and satisfaction. Coordinate the selection, installation, training, use and reporting structure for the full range of technology used in the administrative section of the service. Maintains/updates data base on nutritive analysis of food items served. Performs nutritional analysis of regular and modified menus. Maintains and updates recipes and menu databases with adequate nutritional analysis data, food unit package size, pricing and other data updates. Recommends automated and manual solutions to enhance system and departmental functionality. Manages department databases/registries and productivity reports for the nutrition communication center. b. Education Oversees all aspects of NFS training program related to menus and informatics. Train's personnel in various computer applications and security issues regarding the VISTA dietetic software package. Remains current on trend and technological/technical developments in the field of nutrition informatics and dietetics through continuing education programs and training opportunities. Provides training for new employees as related to policies and procedures related to informatics and menus. Updates training materials to reflect changes or upgrades to the system and provide education to staff. Directs and train dietetic interns, with direct precepting as informatics dietitian. Coordinates and conducts education and end-user training programs to assure systems are used as designed. Interacts with end users as required to assist in problem definition and system design. Manages and updates service SharePoint site for facility ensuring Nutrition Care Manual, Scope of Practice, Memorandum of Understanding and other pertinent information. Supports facility in informatics of marketing NFS with reporting to NFAC Marketing Nutrition and Informatics. Manages the local NFS Newsletter and mail groups, if applicable. c. Quality Participates in project teams associated with the development and implementation of food service systems. Works with professionals/vendors in tailoring software to meet the needs of the service and to trouble shoot system issues. Identifies opportunities for COTS program for cost savings, operational effectiveness and patient satisfaction. Maintains and implements information security for all data files. Collaborates with OIT for mandated updates and downtimes within facility as well as VISN. Participates in organizational activities related to developing and managing other healthcare related technologies to ensure that nutritional care and nutrition standardized language concepts are an integral part of the system. Provides system support to include system testing, maintenance, enhancements and problem solving. Responds to system failure notifications on an on- call basis. Participates in Performance Improvement and QPI, to assure integrity of system. Collaborates with COR for contracting to assure all systems are protected for privacy issues with contracted informatics programs. Works along with COR for annual nutrition informatics contract, changes and system updates. Coordinates the development, interface, training, data collection, and generation of reports for COTS software and patient satisfaction. Uses electronic programs to produce reports, analyze data and to improve personal efficiency and productivity. Work Schedule: Monday - Friday 8:am - 4:30pm Telework: Not Available Virtual: This is not a virtual position. Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Authorize

Requirements

Qualifications

BASIC REQUIREMENTS: United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy. Registration/Certification: Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) or Registered Dietitian (RD) - Must be registered with the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) the credentialing branch of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics formerly known as the American Dietetic Association (ADA). Current VHA Dietitians that qualify based on being covered by the Grandfathering Provision may not be promoted to a higher grade if they do not meet the current RDN/RD requirements. Note: Applicants who hold the RDN credential have met the education requirement (e.g. bachelor's degree or higher) of CDR, as such this occupation is considered professional and scientific with a positive education requirement and the procedures in Part I, Chapter 4 of this Handbook will be followed when applying Veteran's preference Experience. One year of experience equivalent to the next lower grade level. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities. In addition to the experience above, the candidate must demonstrate the following KSAs: (a) Skill in managing computer software programs relative to food service systems. (b) Skill in applying nutritional knowledge to develop menus ensuring nutritional standards are met. (c) Skill in developing training and reference materials. (d) Skill in evaluating data to improve outcomes. (e) Skill in providing training related to food service systems technology. (f) Skill in collaborating with stakeholders. (g) Ability to supervise subordinate staff (i.e., plan, organize, delegate, direct, control and review activities and performance). Grade Determinations: To qualify for this position, you must meet the Basic Requirements as well as any additional grade-level qualification requirements. To qualify for the GS-11, you must possess at least 1 year of experience as an RDN/RD equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-9) which demonstrates the Knowledge, Skills and Abilities. References: VA Handbook 5005 Part II Appendix G20 Physical Requirements: The work required does not inherently include any physical requirements essential for successful job performance that could not otherwise be performed with accommodation or workplace adjustment.

Education

Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ous/international/usnei/us/edlite-visitus-forrecog.html.

ACEND® accredited programs are located on the ACEND® website or at ACEND Accredited Programs Directory.

Contacts

• Address Tuscaloosa VA Medical Center 3701 Loop Road East Tuscaloosa, AL 35404 US
• Name: James Brinson
• Email: [email protected]