Public Health Nutrition is the application of nutrition principles and implementation of initiatives to contribute to improving environmental determinants of dietary intake for the prevention of nutrition-related diseases, and promotion of optimal nutritional health of the population. Multidisciplinary and intersectoral collaboration is critical for public health nutrition practice. A public health nutritionist is responsible for integrating and applying scientific knowledge of human nutrition, biochemistry, physiology, the behavioural and social sciences, and food systems to plan and lead population-based nutrition promotion strategies and interventions to improve health and well-being of targeted groups in communities and the general population.
DUTIES
- Assess the nutritional needs of targeted communities and the population.
- Determine the cause(s) of health problems as relates to nutrition.
- Establish and implement nutrition surveillance systems.
- Develop policies to address nutrition-related problems and thus promote nutritional health and prevent nutrition-related chronic diseases and conditions.
- Plan and conduct culturally relevant nutrition education programmes, complemented by appropriate educational materials.
- Collaborate with other healthcare providers, non-health sectors and agencies for greater effectiveness of initiatives.
- Contribute to education and training of dietetic interns, other healthcare personnel and other individuals.
- Provide advice to food industries and other food-related bodies.
- Develop, improve food labeling and safety standards, and monitor compliance.
- Ensure quality assurance standards are met.
- Conduct research on the nutritionally relevant areas of focus and communicate findings.
- Maintain professional competencies.
QUALIFICATIONS
Education
- Required CXC (CSEC) subjects include English, Mathematics, Chemistry;
- Two CXC (CAPE) science subjects OR a Diploma or Associate degree in Nutrition or Food Science or Chemistry or Biochemistry from a recognised tertiary level institution
- Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Nutrition and Dietetics is an asset and is highly desirable.
- Master of Science Degree in Nutrition OR Community Nutrition OR Public Health Nutrition, integrated with practicum.
Registration
- Registration with the Nutritionists and Dietitians Board of the Council Professions Related to Medicine, Trinidad and Tobago.
PROFILE
- Good communication (oral, writing, listening) skills.
- Good management and networking skills.
- Good time management skills.
- Good critical thinking skills.
- Flexible
- Advocate for and demonstrates professional standards.
- Maintains professional competencies.
- Respect for religious and cultural preferences.
- Computer literate
- Able to work well independently and as a team member.
