The job market for dietetic technicians, registered (DTRs) is growing rapidly. More and more jobs outside of the standard hospital setting are popping up nationwide due to the increase in the aging population and national emphasis on disease prevention. DTRs are trained technical nutrition professionals who practice and promote safe and quality food and nutrition services. If you are contemplating becoming a DTR, check out the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics website for a comprehensive, step-by-step fact sheet on how to earn a DTR credential.

Once you become a DTR, getting noticed by employers is important to land your dream job. Corinne Kantor, DTR, CLT, owner of The Food Cop and Diet Tech Central, recommends compiling a professional resume that is well-written with no spelling, grammar, or punctual errors. In addition, Kantor emphasizes using your intern hours, any on-the-job experience from school projects, and any volunteer work you may have had to add to your resume to highlight your accomplishments. Make yourself stand out and get recognized as a qualified candidate.

Job opportunities for DTRs: Hospital Skilled nursing facility Retirement center Hospice Homecare Community wellness centers Women, infant, children (WIC) Meals on Wheels Educator for nutrition classes Public healthcare representative Weight management clinics Outpatient clinics Health clubs Consultant with food companies Consultant for quality control with food companies Menu developer with food companies Menu and nutrient analysis with food companies and restaurants Foodservice sanitation Food safety surveyor School lunch Day-care centers Food preparation for restaurants Foodservice operations/manager in various facilities from corporations to hospitals to correctional facilities Researcher Writer for various publications and websites

Find your perfect job! Use these additional job search resources:

Diet Tech Central: a comprehensive networking website for DTRs with job postings, forums, and free career resources for students and professionals.

NutritionJobs: a comprehensive job search website with job postings and free career resources for students and professionals.

Kantor advises to use LinkedIn, too, in order to network and connect with employers, colleagues, and other professionals.

Happy job hunting!

Sarah Koszyk is founder of Family. Food. Fiesta. A family-based wellness program and blog focusing on recipes, family health tips, and videos with kids cooking in the kitchen. She is a Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Coach specializing in sports nutrition and adult and pediatric weight management. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, or LinkedIn.