PATIENT DINING ASSOCIATE (DIETARY AIDE) - $12 per HOUR
Posted on October 24, 2025
Morrison Healthcare is a prominent national food and nutrition services company that specializes in supporting a vast network of over 1,000 hospitals and healthcare systems across 46 states in the United States. Known for its dedication to providing exceptional culinary, nutritional, and operational expertise, Morrison Healthcare has established a remarkable reputation over its 70 years of service. The company is well-regarded for enhancing the healthcare dining experience, ensuring that patients receive meals that meet their nutritional needs while also being appetizing and enjoyable. Morrison Healthcare employs over 31,000 professional food service team members, including 1,600 registered dietitians and 1,200 executive chefs, who collectively work to uphold high standards in dietary care and patient satisfaction. Additionally, Morrison Healthcare has been recognized consistently as one of Modern Healthcare's Best Places to Work since 2012, reflecting a strong organizational culture focused on employee well-being and professional growth.
The Patient Dining Associate (Dietary Aide) role at Morrison Healthcare's Valley Baptist location in Harlingen, TX, is crucial in delivering compassionate and precise service to patients during meal times. This position involves full-time and part-time schedules, with working hours ranging from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm, including weekends. The associate plays an essential role within the healthcare team by helping patients make informed menu selections, assembling trays with care, delivering meals promptly at the correct temperature, and collecting trays afterward. The role is patient-focused and requires a strong commitment to safety, nutritional compliance, and overall patient satisfaction.
Patient Dining Associates collaborate with nursing and dietary departments to ensure that patients adhere to dietary restrictions and preferences, including allergies, cultural preferences, and medical conditions requiring special diets. These professionals handle tray tickets, maintain sanitation standards by following federal, state, and Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) guidelines, and comply with HIPAA regulations to protect patient confidentiality. The job also entails assisting dietitians by monitoring patients who may have limited or special dietary needs, ensuring that meal service supports their health and recovery.
Morrison Healthcare values employees who exhibit excellent communication and customer service skills, basic computer proficiency, and the physical ability to lift and transport up to 100 pounds safely. While prior experience in food service or customer service is preferred, the company welcomes candidates willing to learn and grow within this supportive environment.
The fixed hourly pay rate for full-time and part-time Patient Dining Associates is $12.00, and the company offers an attractive benefits package. Full-time employees have access to comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability insurance, commuter benefits, employee assistance programs, and flexible spending accounts (FSAs). Both full-time and part-time associates enjoy retirement plans, wellness programs, shopping discounts, identity theft protection, pet insurance, and voluntary insurance options such as critical illness and accident coverage.
Joining Morrison Healthcare as a Patient Dining Associate offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of patients and contribute to a culture of opportunity and care. With a long-standing history of excellence and a commitment to employee development, Morrison Healthcare delivers an environment where one’s work genuinely transforms healthcare experiences for patients and families alike.
                - Previous food or customer service experience preferred
 - Ability to read, write and interpret documents in English
 - Basic computer and mathematical skills
 - Must be able to occasionally lift or move up to 100 pounds, as well as maneuver and push food delivery carts