When Noelle Spence joined Wake County in 2021 as an Environmental Consultant, she was ready for a challenge and she quickly proved herself. Just one year later, in 2022, she became an Environmental Health Manager, leading a team that guides clients through the wastewater and groundwater application process while supporting the broader Onsite Water Protection team.
“No two days look the same,” Noelle said. “Most days, I’m answering client questions, educating the public about onsite wastewater systems and processing applications. On occasion, I get into the field to examine systems, join leadership on site visits or even inspect local swimming pools.”
Her favorite part of the job? Helping people.
“I really like to help people and my motivation to come to work each day is to provide the best customer service to the residents of Wake County and my internal clients,” she explained. “Being able to help and educate clients about wastewater systems and groundwater wells leaves me feeling accomplished and helpful each day.”
Noelle brings a wealth of experience to her role. Before joining Wake County, she worked at three other public health departments performing site and soil evaluations, siting groundwater wells, collecting water samples and inspecting wastewater system installations.
She holds a bachelor’s degree from Sonoma State University and a Master of Public Health from Oregon State University. While at Oregon State, she wrote a grant that secured funding from the Oregon Health Authority to sample existing groundwater wells and educate the community about water safety.
“Properly permitting wastewater systems and groundwater wells is an important job. There are about 80,000 wastewater systems in Wake County serving roughly 200,000 residents,” she said. “For clients who have never lived on a property with a wastewater system, it can be confusing. I enjoy helping them understand the process.”
Outside of work, Noelle enjoys cooking, baking, reading, swimming and traveling. She also loves hiking with her dogs and fiancé, finding balance and joy in the outdoors when she’s not helping Wake County residents protect their water.
During Registered Environmental Health Specialist Week, we celebrate professionals like Noelle, whose dedication, passion and expertise keep our community safe, healthy and thriving.
