Sports Dietitian/Food Service Coordinator

Penn State University
State College, PA

Penn State Intercollegiate Athletics is seeking a Sports Dietitian/Food Service Coordinator to lead nutrition operations at the athlete-exclusive dining facility. This role is responsible for the daily execution of performance-focused meals in collaboration with dining and culinary partners, while also delivering high-impact nutrition education directly within the dining environment. The ideal candidate brings energy, creativity, and deep sports nutrition expertise to support student-athletes’ training, recovery, and overall well-being.

As a key member of the performance nutrition team, the Sports Dietitian/Food Service Coordinator will collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team to deliver holistic, athlete-centered nutrition services. This role offers a dynamic and interactive environment with opportunities to lead initiatives, develop innovative fueling strategies, and engage with athletes daily.


This position will serve as the primary nutrition leader for the athlete-only dining facility, supporting student-athlete performance through intentional, evidence-based fueling strategies. Collaboration with campus dining, culinary teams, coaching staff, and the performance unit is essential to ensure best-in-class service and support.


Facility Oversight & Operations

  • Serve as the lead dietitian for the athlete dining facility, managing nutritional quality, food labeling, and meal execution.

  • Partner with campus dining and culinary teams to ensure meals meet sport-specific fueling standards and performance nutrition best practices.

  • Conduct ongoing menu reviews and nutrient analyses to ensure variety, seasonality, and alignment with sport schedules.


Performance Nutrition Programming

  • Design fueling strategies tailored to sport, training phases, and athlete preferences—including pre/post training, hydration, and recovery.
  • Address individual dietary needs (e.g., allergies, intolerances, vegan/vegetarian) with personalized support plans.
  • Create and maintain signage, food labeling, and educational materials to promote athlete food literacy and reinforce performance nutrition.

Education & Athlete Engagement

  • Deliver on-the-floor education via informal conversations, meal coaching, and table-side teaching.
  • Coordinate and participate in themed meals, cooking demonstrations, and fueling station programming.
  • Mentor dietetic interns, undergraduate student interns, and volunteers rotating through the dining space.

Internship Oversight & Mentorship

  • Supervise and mentor dietetic interns and undergraduate students placed in the athlete dining facility; provide onboarding, structured learning opportunities, and ongoing feedback.
  • Coordinate intern schedules, learning objectives, and any project assignments in alignment with performance nutrition priorities and facility needs.

Quality Assurance & Food Safety

  • Monitor food safety, sanitation, and compliance with NCAA, institutional, and department nutrition policies.
  • Conduct periodic evaluations of food quality, presentation, and athlete satisfaction; use feedback for continual improvement.
  • Ensure clear communication on allergens, ingredient sourcing, and special dietary accommodations.

Master’s Degree in Nutrition or related degree preferred. The successful candidate must comply with all NCAA, conference, and university regulations regarding nutritional support and supplementation. Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and non-traditional hours in alignment with team training schedules and special events.


 

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree 3+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: Licensed Dietitian-Nutritionist - Pennsylvania State Board of Nursing

  

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

This position requires the following clearances in addition to applicable background checks: PA State Police Criminal Background Check, PA Child Abuse History Clearance Form, and Federal (FBI) Fingerprint Criminal Background Check. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.


You may reach out to me (Nick Yonko) directly at njy5083@psu.edu if you have any questions