Nutrition Associate

Job Summary:

This position is a part-time, seasonal position in Grand Rapids, West Michigan. The Associate Dietitian for the High A Affiliate is responsible for providing players and staff with effective strategies to optimize performance and enhance well-being. Through nutrition and sports nutrition science, Whitecaps players will be empowered to manage their body composition and perform at their highest level.

Key Responsibilities:

• Coordinate services with the Tigers' team doctors, athletic trainers, physiotherapists, strength and conditioning coaches, MLB Nutrition Coordinator, MiLB Nutrition Coordinator, Catering Manager, and home clubhouse cook, being available for consultation at all reasonable times.
• Provide education with flexibility to create nutrition education pieces based on the most relevant topics for the team. Sessions can be in person and/or through closed social networks or online platforms. Short team talks with strength coaches/athletic trainers and affiliate coaches.
• Evaluate and coordinate the kitchen, menu, and snacks for players.
• Work with other Nutritionists in the minor leagues to share education pieces, ensuring a consistent message throughout the organization. High-priority education topics include:
  • Healthier options for fast food and quick-service restaurants.
  • Hydration: how to assess hydration status, when to hydrate, electrolyte use.
  • Meal preparation: quick and easy, on a limited budget and with limited cooking resources.
  • Protein shakes: recipes, preparation techniques, timing.
  • Pre-training/game nutrition principles.
  • Post-game recovery nutrition principles.
  • Safe supplementation: NSF certification, supplement safety protocols as per MLB.
• Provide one-on-one nutrition consulting for players, assessing and advising for optimal performance, recovery, and health. Document sessions and communicate regularly with other affiliates when players move to ensure continuity of care.
• Maintain supplement inventory and communicate needs to the MiLB Nutrition Coordinator. Provide education on safe use.
• Oversee food and nutrition services.
• Select and order high-performance foods for pre- and post-game meals at the home stadium and collaborate with catering managers for visiting stadiums.
• Attend all home games and assist with shake preparation, food setup, and teach players preparation techniques.
• Be available for other related consultations as requested by the Tigers.
• Other services and duties as mutually agreed upon.

Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Bachelor's degree in clinical nutrition, food and nutrition, food sciences, sports nutrition, or related field required.
• Registered Dietitian (RD) credential required.
• Preferably 2 years of experience as a Dietitian in a professional or university program.
• Experience providing nutrition education and counseling to athletes.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and counseling skills.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.
• Self-motivated, ability to work independently and collaborate as a team member.
• Ability to measure height, weight, and assess body composition.
• Knowledge of medical nutrition therapy, ergogenic aids, nutritional/herbal supplements.
• Familiarity with food service quality and safety practices.
• Must be willing to relocate to affiliate location.
• Ability to work a non-standard work week.
• Ability to operate at the highest professional standard.
• Spanish-speaking preferred.

Working Conditions:

• Outdoor and office environment
• Non-traditional work schedule. Evening, weekend and holiday hours will be required
• Must be able to lift up to 40lb

Location / Time Commitment:

• Seasonal, April 1st, 2025 through September 30th, 2025.
• Ability to work a non-standard work week
• No travel required to away games
• Possibility of traveling to other locations for Spring Training/orientation.

ADDITIONAL BENEFITS:

• Housing allotment provided
• Meals covered during work hours
• Team gear provided
• Phone reimbursement provided