Dietitian and Nutritionist
Performs professional dietetics and nutrition work including nutrition assessment, therapy, and education.
💰GS-0630 Salary Information
2025 Base Pay (before locality adjustment)
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7 | Step 8 | Step 9 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
| GS-9 | $52,205 | $53,945 | $55,685 | $57,425 | $59,165 | $60,905 | $62,645 | $64,385 | $66,125 | $67,865 |
| GS-11 | $63,163 | $65,268 | $67,373 | $69,478 | $71,583 | $73,688 | $75,793 | $77,898 | $80,003 | $82,108 |
| GS-12 | $75,706 | $78,229 | $80,752 | $83,275 | $85,798 | $88,321 | $90,844 | $93,367 | $95,890 | $98,422 |
| GS-13 | $90,025 | $93,026 | $96,027 | $99,028 | $102,029 | $105,030 | $108,031 | $111,032 | $114,033 | $117,034 |
Note: These are 2025 base pay rates. Most federal employees receive locality pay adjustments of 15-40%+ depending on location.
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0630
Dietitian and Nutritionist Individual Occupational Requirements
Education (must meet ONE):
- Bachelor's or graduate degree in dietetics, food, nutrition, food service management, institution management, or related science from ACEND-accredited program
- Completion of AND-approved coordinated undergraduate program, internship, or supervised clinical component
- Current registration as Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)
Note: Candidates completing AND-approved supervised practice programs or holding RD/RDN registration meet requirements for GS-7.
Grandfathering: Employees in this series as of September 2017 are considered to have met basic requirements.
🎖️Tips for Veterans
- ✓Translate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- ✓Highlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- ✓Veterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- ⚠️Note: Degree required for this series.
📝How to Qualify for GS-0630
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal dietitian and nutritionist position
- 1
Review Qualification Requirements
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
- 2
Determine Your Grade Level
Match your years of experience and education to the appropriate GS grade. Generally: GS-5 (entry), GS-7/9 (junior), GS-11/12 (journey), GS-13+ (senior).
- 3
Gather Documentation
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
- 4
Build Your Federal Resume
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
- 5
Apply on USAJOBS
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
🎖️Military to Federal Crosswalk
Military jobs that transition to GS-0630
Diet Therapy
Dietitian pathway.
Nutrition Care Specialist
GS-0630 Dietitian and Nutritionist is the professional series once you complete a dietetics bachelor's degree and supervised practice. Strong target after using the GI Bill.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Assess nutritional status of patients
- •Develop nutrition care plans
- •Provide medical nutrition therapy
- •Educate patients on dietary requirements
- •Manage food service operations
- •Conduct nutrition research
🎯Key Competencies
Knowledge of therapeutic diets and medical nutrition therapy.
Ability to evaluate nutritional status of individuals and populations.
Skill in developing nutritionally balanced meal plans.
Ability to provide nutrition education and dietary guidance.
Knowledge of food service operations and quality standards.
Skill in conducting nutrition-related research and analysis.
Knowledge of food safety regulations and nutrition standards.
Ability to work with healthcare teams on patient nutrition care.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0630
What is a federal Dietitian or Nutritionist?
GS-0630 Dietitians and Nutritionists provide medical nutrition therapy, assess patient nutritional status, develop diet plans, educate patients, and manage food service operations. They work at VA hospitals, military treatment facilities, IHS clinics, and federal food programs ensuring proper nutrition for patients and populations.
How much does a federal Dietitian make?
GS-0630 positions range from GS-5 ($34,454) for interns to GS-13 ($90,025-$117,034) for chiefs and program managers. Most clinical dietitians are GS-9 to GS-11 ($52,205-$82,108). Food service directors reach GS-12. Add locality pay of 15-40% for metro areas.
What are the requirements for GS-0630 positions?
A bachelor's degree (or higher) in dietetics, food and nutrition, or related field is mandatory—this is a positive education requirement. Registration as a Registered Dietitian (RD) or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) is typically required. Completion of accredited dietetic internship needed for registration.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0630?
The degree requirement cannot be substituted, but military dietitian experience is highly valued. Army 65C, Navy and Air Force dietitians transition directly to federal positions. Veterans with nutrition degrees who served in food service or medical roles have relevant background to complement required education.
What is the career progression for Dietitians?
Entry at GS-5/7 (internship/early career), clinical dietitians at GS-9/11, senior clinicians at GS-11/12. Chiefs of Nutrition and Food Service reach GS-12/13. Specialization in renal, diabetes, or oncology nutrition enhances advancement. VA offers robust dietitian career ladders.
How do I apply for GS-0630 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Dietitian,' 'Nutritionist,' or 'Clinical Dietitian.' VA hospitals are the largest employer. Also check IHS, DoD, and USDA food programs. Highlight your RD/RDN credential, clinical specialty, and patient education experience. Veterans with nutrition backgrounds are valued at VA.
Ready to Apply for GS-0630?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.