Sanitarian I, 2, 3

Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO); Louisiana, Northern (MO, KY); Hybrid; USD 26,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Louisiana Department of Health seeks a Sanitarian to enforce health codes, conduct inspections, and support public health initiatives statewide. Position offers career progression from Sanitarian 1 to 3 with SER pay scales and temporary/probationary appointments.

Location: Office of Public Health / Bureau of Sanitarian Services / Statewide. Requires a current Louisiana Sanitarian permit and molluscan shellfish program qualifications where applicable.

Qualifications

• Possession of a current Louisiana Sanitarian’s temporary permit.
• NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Positions in the Molluscan Shellfish program require that applicants complete the Louisiana Boating Education program and be certified by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

Responsibilities

• Review plans and enforce Title 51 of the Louisiana State Sanitary Code in Retail Food, Onsite Wastewater, and Institutional programs.
• Conduct inspections of food establishments, wastewater systems, and institutions (schools, jails, daycare centers) to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
• Perform percolation tests for onsite wastewater systems.
• Write violation notices, provide corrective guidance to owners/managers, and conduct re-inspections to verify compliance.
• Investigate and respond to complaints of unsanitary conditions from the public or government representatives.
• Collect and prepare food, water, and other samples for laboratory testing, ensuring proper handling and transport.
• Participate in trainings, community outreach, and emergency response activities to support public health initiatives.

Job description

The mission of the Louisiana Department of Health is to protect and promote health and to ensure access to medical, preventive, and rehabilitative services for all residents of the State of Louisiana.

Learn more about Louisiana Department of Health

Looking for a career where you can make a direct impact on the health and safety of Louisiana communities? As a Sanitarian, you’ll play a vital role in protecting public health through inspections, enforcement, and community engagement. From ensuring safe food in restaurants and markets, to reviewing onsite wastewater systems, to safeguarding institutions such as schools and daycares—you’ll be on the frontlines of promoting healthier environments across the state.

This position offers opportunities to gain hands‑on experience in multiple specialty areas, provide guidance to staff and the public, and build strong partnerships with community leaders. You’ll also receive ongoing training and professional development to enhance your expertise while making a meaningful difference every day.

You must have a current Louisiana Sanitarian’s temporary permit or a current Louisiana Sanitarian’s license to be considered for this position.

Louisiana State Board of Examiners for Sanitarians temporary permit application: https://www.lsbes.org/application-for-temporary-permit

Minimum Qualifications

Possession of a current Louisiana Sanitarian’s temporary permit.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS: Positions in the Molluscan Shellfish program require that applicants complete the Louisiana Boating Education program and be certified by the Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

Job Specification

The official job specifications for this role, as defined by the State Civil Service, can be found here.

Job Duties and Other Information

Job Duties:

• Review plans and enforce Title 51 of the Louisiana State Sanitary Code in Retail Food, Onsite Wastewater, and Institutional programs.
• Conduct inspections of food establishments, wastewater systems, and institutions (schools, jails, daycare centers) to ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
• Perform percolation tests for onsite wastewater systems.
• Write violation notices, provide corrective guidance to owners/managers, and conduct re-inspections to verify compliance.
• Investigate and respond to complaints of unsanitary conditions from the public or government representatives.
• Collect and prepare food, water, and other samples for laboratory testing, ensuring proper handling and transport.
• Participate in trainings, community outreach, and emergency response activities to support public health initiatives.

Position-Specific Details:

Location: Office of Public Health / Bureau of Sanitarian Services / Statewide

Appointment Type: Probationary, Promotional appointment, Job appointment (temporary appointment that may last up to 48 months)

Cost Center: 3262209520

Position Number(s): Various

Career Progression: This position may be filled as a Sanitarian 1, 2, or 3 determined by the qualifications of the candidate selected. This position provides the opportunity to advance within this job series.

Compensation: This position is eligible for the following Special Entrance Rates (SERs):
Sanitarian 1 - $19.36 hr / $1,548.80 bi-weekly
Sanitarian 2 - $20.72 hr / $1,657.60 bi-weekly
Sanitarian 3 - $22.90 hr / $1,832.00 bi-weekly

LDH supports Louisiana’s commitment to being a State as a Model Employer (SAME) by promoting the recruitment, hiring, and retention of individuals with disabilities.

This organization participates in E-verify, and for more information on E-verify, please contact DHS at 1-888-464-4218.