Community Nutritionist [Island Health]

In accordance with the Vision, Purpose, and Values, and strategic direction of the Vancouver Island Health Authority, patient safety is a priority and a responsibility shared by everyone at VIHA; as such, the requirement to continuously improve quality and safety is inherent in all aspects of this position.

Reporting to the Project Lead, CYF Manager and/or designate and working in the community setting, the Community Nutritionist uses a population health approach to assess, promote, protect, and enhance health and the prevention of nutrition-related diseases throughout Vancouver Island. Primary focus of this PH Nutritionist will include food security and the promotion of healthy choices and pro direction in school and community settings to reduce chronic disease and obesity across the lifespan in relation to the health promotion platform.

Bachelors Degree required in Food Sciences and/or Nutrition. Registered Dietician designation required with current practicing registration. Two years of recent relevant experience with a focus on community development work, social marketing, project management, and interdisciplinary partnering. A valid BC Driver’s License.

B. Skills & Knowledge

Demonstrates understanding of food systems and sustainable food practices as they relate to and influence

population health

Demonstrates knowledge of how a public health perspective drives ethical decision making in food and nutrition

related policies, programs, purchasing, partnerships, funding and sponsorship

Demonstrates understanding of the role of policy and how food and nutrition public policy is developed in Canada

Demonstrates understanding of food and nutrition surveillance and monitoring as it relates to planning, policy

analysis, program evaluation, advocacy and research

Demonstrates understanding of the processes and roles of partnership, collaboration, community development and

Advocacy to improve the health and wellbeing of the population through food and nutrition strategies

Demonstrates understanding of the core attitudes and values shared by public health professionals

Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing

Demonstrated ability in public speaking, facilitation, and advocacy

Demonstrated knowledge of social determinants of health and their impact on health outcomes

Demonstrated ability to work independently, demonstrating initiative, and with limited supervision while maintaining

collaborative relationships with community stakeholders

Demonstrated ability to work within a multidisciplinary team

Knowledge of community capacity building

Effectively promotes and role models positive change leadership

Commitment to continued professional development as required by the employer

Physically able to carry out the duties of the position

Operate a personal computer with a variety of windows based software

Travel is a requirement of this position; transportation arrangements must meet operational requirements