For nearly two decades, Naterra McQueen has worked as an Environmental Consultant in Wake County, focusing on public health and safety. Since joining the county in 2005, McQueen has fulfilled her long-standing goal of becoming a health inspector.
“I always wanted to be a health inspector, and Wake County has always been known for its high standards,” McQueen said. “I wanted to work with the best.”
McQueen earned her degree in Human Sciences with a concentration in Food Science from North Carolina Central University in 1998. After graduating, she managed restaurants for YUM Brands and spent six years at KFC. Her interest in environmental health was sparked when her own health inspector encouraged her to apply for the role she now holds.
Her daily responsibilities begin at 8:30 a.m., handling calls and emails before heading out to conduct inspections at various facilities including restaurants, childcare centers, nursing homes, swimming pools, food stands, and mobile food units. She also investigates complaints related to foodborne illnesses. On average, McQueen performs at least 35 inspections each month.
“I try every day to make sure the citizens of Wake County are eating in safe establishments, that our childcare centers are safe and that every facility I inspect is meeting the standards,” she said. “My family lives here too. When people see a sanitation grade card with my signature on it, I want them to know I did my best to make sure that facility was safe that day.”
McQueen noted some challenges associated with her job. “At times, operators may see me as a critic or feel like I’m working against the process they have in place,” she explained. “But over time, as trust builds, they see we have the same goal—keeping people safe. I really enjoy working with operators, solving problems and seeing the improvements they make. When they put into practice what we’ve discussed and their scores go up, that’s rewarding.”
Outside of work, McQueen enjoys bowling with friends, playing Fling Golf, traveling and spending time with family. She also has an interest in history—particularly King Henry VIII—and is a fan of Mandalorian stories.
Registered Environmental Health Specialist Week highlights professionals like McQueen who contribute significantly to community well-being through their dedication and expertise.
