Nutrition Assistant

Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital is a leading healthcare institution that extends the advanced expertise and latest medical technology of Houston Methodist to Baytown and the surrounding areas. Known for its skilled and compassionate team of physicians, nurses, and staff, the hospital is dedicated to providing superior medical care within a state-of-the-art, close-to-home facility. It actively supports the health and wellness of its community through continuous expansion and modernization efforts, including a new emergency department, a patient tower, outpatient center, and specialized care units like a neonatal intensive care unit and a renovated Cancer Center. This growth ensures that patients receive timely, effective, and comprehensive medical services in a comfortable and technologically advanced environment. Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital prides itself on delivering patient-centered care and fostering an inclusive environment, committed to meeting the evolving needs of its community and staff alike. The hospital is also an Equal Opportunity Employer, ensuring fair practices in its hiring and employment policies.

The Nutrition Assistant role at Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital serves as a vital connection between patients and the hospital’s dining services. This position is responsible for educating patients on dining service programs tailored to their physician-prescribed diet orders and acts as the initial point of contact for any related concerns or problem resolution. The assistant ensures the accuracy of diet information, assists in menu selection according to dietary requirements, guarantees the timely delivery of meals and trays, and monitors patient feedback to improve food selection and quality continuously. The Nutrition Assistant also works closely with peers and management to address any workplace hazards and maintain sanitation standards in compliance with local Food Ordinances and department policies.

Working hours generally run from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m., with the flexibility to vary based on business needs. This non-exempt position requires a strong aptitude for customer service, excellent communication skills, and the ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced healthcare environment. Key duties include greeting patients by name, positively engaging with patients, family members, and staff, serving as the first point of contact for food service complaints, assisting and accommodating patients with diet-related inquiries, delivering and setting up meals accurately, and ensuring patient satisfaction before leaving each room.

The Nutrition Assistant is also tasked with maintaining accurate documentation, improving department employee and patient satisfaction scores, conducting quality improvement projects such as test trays, managing inventory to reduce waste, and recommending process improvements. The role demands active listening skills, sound judgment in professional decision-making, and the ability to analyze information to make informed decisions rapidly. Additionally, the position requires certification either through a Food Handlers Permit or a Certified Food Manager certificate, which must be current, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.

This position provides a unique opportunity to contribute directly to patient care beyond traditional clinical roles by supporting nutritional health and satisfaction, making a meaningful impact on patient recovery and hospital service quality. Working at Houston Methodist Baytown Hospital offers a fulfilling career path within a respected healthcare system dedicated to innovation, patient care excellence, and community well-being.