- Nutritionists work in hospitals, schools, clinics, nursing homes and for food producers. They analyze clients' diets or the composition of food products and seek new ways to provide better nutrition. Since each client has unique nutrition needs, nutritionists must be able to customize programs and use a working knowledge of local food sources, cultural preferences and new scientific findings about diet and nutrition to configure the best diets. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, nutritionists earn on average between $45,000 and $52,000 per year as of 2010, depending on the type of employer.
- A nutritionist's job is highly specialized and requires at least a bachelor's degree. Most nutritionists have a B.S. or B.A. in a food-related field such as dietetics or food service management. Some nutritionists choose to go on for an advanced degree. Master's programs in nutrition or institution management, or science fields such as microbiology and biochemistry, can all improve a nutritionist's chances of finding a desirable job with a high starting salary.
- To perform their jobs effectively, nutritionists need some basic skills. These include interpersonal skills, since most nutritionists speak directly to clients who will be eating the foods they select. Nutritionists also act as liaisons between doctors, patients and family members, making communication and tact very important. Nutritionists need basic math skills to compute the relative merits of different food combinations. Finally, a nutritionist should understand institutional operating procedures at a hospital or outpatient facility to provide care that is consistent with other health professionals in the same institution.
- Each state has its own method for certifying nutritionists. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 33 states require nutritionists to hold licenses that they receive after completing a combination of course work and passing an exam. In addition, 12 states require special statutory certification for anyone who works as a nutritionist. The Commission on Dietetic Registration of the American Dietetic Association administers exams that allow some nutritionists to become registered dietitians. Though not an official requirement, this title may allow a nutritionist to find more job opportunities or entitle him to increased pay.
- Nutritionists are not the only professionals who offer nutrition therapy or arrange dietary guidelines for clients. Institutions or clients who can't afford a nutritionist's services may seek similar advice from a health educator or food service manager. The job prospects for nutritionists depend largely on the status of health insurance plans, only some of which cover the cost of consulting with a nutritionist. This means that changes in the health care industry and new insurance requirements have a direct effect on nutritionists.
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