Do you have interest or experience in the food service industry? Would you like to pursue a management career within this industry?
You might want to become a certified dietary manager.
In this article, we'll explore the job duties of certified dietary managers and discuss the step-by-step process you can follow to become one.
What Is a Certified Dietary Manager?
Certified dietary managers are professionals who are in charge of various non-commercial food service operations.
Their primary job is to ensure food safety by upholding safety regulations, supervising kitchen workers, and determining areas for improvement.
Other job duties may include:
- hiring and overseeing kitchen staff
- reviewing and updating kitchen safety policies
- ensuring safe food preparation and storage methods
- replacing kitchen equipment as necessary
- evaluating kitchen staff performance
Certified dietary managers commonly work in hospital and school cafeterias, but they can find employment with any organization tasked with preparing large amounts of food for many people.
They spend much of their time on their feet in the kitchen. They commonly work full-time hours, but this can vary depending on the needs of their employer.
What Qualities Do Certified Dietary Managers Have?
Certified dietary managers must have a thorough understanding of food safety regulations and techniques.
They must be detail-oriented to ensure that all regulations are followed within the kitchen they supervise.
They should be excellent leaders and communicators since they hold a management role and must be able to communicate ideas effectively with all members of the kitchen staff.
They should be physically fit, as they may have to spend long hours on their feet in a bustling kitchen setting.
They must be well-organized and able to multitask and manage time efficiently.
Finally, they should be good listeners, willing to receive feedback from kitchen staff and clients and make adjustments to policies and procedures as necessary.
So, are you ready to start your career as a certified dietary manager? There are various ways to attain this role; regardless of the path you choose, you will follow the same basic steps.
Step 1: Earn a High School Diploma or GED
Completing high school or obtaining a GED is a necessary first step because becoming a certified dietary manager requires post-secondary education. You cannot pursue this without a diploma or GED.
While you are in high school, consider volunteering at a soup kitchen, get a part-time job in a restaurant, or try your hand at catering. Any food service experience you can get will benefit you in your future career.
It may also be helpful to take any cooking or nutrition classes your school offers.
Step 2: Complete a Training Program
Certified dietary managers must complete some form of post-secondary education to be eligible for the certification exam.
The most direct path is to take a short-term course or certificate program available through a college or university. You can also pursue an associate or bachelor's degree in a nutrition-related field.
The program you choose must meet the guidelines established by the Association of Nutrition and Foodservice Professionals (ANFP) and the Certifying Board for Dietary Managers (CBDM).
You can also become a certified dietary manager if you have an unrelated college degree or qualifying military experience, provided you meet certain food service experience requirements.
Again, though, if you are just starting out, your best bet is to complete a college-based training course or degree program approved by the ANFP and CBDM.
Step 3: Get Certified
Once you have completed your education, you will need to pass the Certified Dietary Manager/Certified Food Protection Professional Credentialing Exam.
This exam is available through the Certifying Board for Dietary Managers. There are various eligibility pathways depending on your level of education and experience.
At least, you must have graduated from an ANFP-approved training program or have extensive food service experience coupled with a non-food service-related degree or military experience.
The exam comprises 100 multiple-choice questions. If you are not already a member of the ANFP, you will need to activate your certification after passing the exam by submitting your score and paying a fee.
Step 4: Get Licensed if Necessary
Each state has different food service and food handling requirements. Some states require certified dietary managers to receive a separate food handler's license, while others do not.
Be sure and check with your state to find out what the requirements are before landing your first job as a certified dietary manager.
If you are required to obtain a license in your state, you may need to pass additional exams, pay additional fees, and meet additional requirements.
Step 5: Complete Continuing Education
You will need to renew your CDM certification yearly by paying a renewal fee. You will also need to stay up-to-date on continuing education requirements.
As a certified dietary manager, you must complete 45 continuing education (CE) credits every three years. This will help you stay current on trends and safety regulations in food service.
If you have a state license, you may need to meet additional CE requirements to renew your license. Check with your state for specific guidelines.
Become a Certified Dietary Manager Today
Certified dietary managers play a crucial role in promoting food safety and limiting the spread of foodborne illness. To become a certified dietary manager, follow the steps outlined above.