A nutritionist may be employed with a variety of organizations such as educational institutions, hospitals and wellness centers, helping to establish healthy eating habits for patients, students or clients. Nutritionists share information through their knowledge and research, designing meal plans, working one-on-one as a consultant with individuals and groups or specializing in a particular area of nutrition.
Responsibilities
A nutritionist is often responsible for planning or creating nutrition programs, overseeing meal preparation and educating others on the importance of eating healthy. However, some individuals work in numerous areas of nutrition. They are still classified as nutritionists, but branch out into different sections of the nutrition field. For example, a clinical dietitian may work with patients alone to assess their dietary needs and implement a nutritional plan, modifying their daily diet intake, while a community dietitian may work in a home health agency, coordinating nutritional plans for the elderly.
Employment Statistics
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 60,300 jobs were held in the area of nutrition during the year 2008. More then half of the jobs were individuals working in places such as hospitals, outpatient care centers and nursing homes. Some people also worked in food services, providing nutritional foods for educational institutions or cafeterias in the work place.
Education
Usually, to get any kind of job in the nutrition field, you need a bachelor's degree in either food and nutrition, dietetics or food management, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. You can then apply to a graduate program. During your post-secondary education, you will study courses related to science such as food, chemistry and biology. You may also have to take courses in math or business.
Salary
The average annual income of a nutritionist was $50,590 in May 2008. Around 10 percent in this field earned more then $73,410 and those who did tended to hold years of experience and updated education. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics says that individuals who worked in special food services earned less, bringing in an income of around $45,410.
Future of the Industry
Employment in this field is expected to grow, as society will also needed nutrition workers to work in hospitals or other health centers. Demand for nutritionist workers will increase in outpatient care facilities and food service management in the coming years. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that applicants who do not hold a bachelor's degree may experience tough competition for positions in this field, making it essential to obtain some sort of credentials in an area of nutrition.
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