Daily life as a Civil Enforcement Officer

01 July 2009

Everyone knows the bad rep that those in Civil Enforcement jobs have, but they do a vital job. So what makes a good CEO and how do they go about their days? The basic duties of all CEOs are to patrol the streets as well as the car parks and check that people are not parking illegally.

They issue PCNs [parking penalty charge notices] when necessary. The UK is exceedingly congested as to roads and parking facilities. The job of a CEO is to ensure that people do not hog parking and that everyone has a fair chance of getting parking.

Much more than issuing tickets

Those who work as civil enforcement officers firstly have to be fit as they are constantly walking throughout their working days. They need to have the personality that can deal with all types of people and have the patience to answer questions and give advice. Diplomacy and tact is necessary as people aren’t always polite, especially if they did something wrong.

A CEO must be able to handle frustration when people react illogically in situations. The CEOS check up on road signs and road markings and report on graffiti and vandalism. They work alone or in pairs, depending on where they patrol and whether it is daytime or evening duties.

A good sense of humour is something that all CEOs must have to deal with the idiosyncrasies of humans on a daily basis and in all types of weather. In all, Civil Enforcement Officers will tell you that they enjoy their jobs as each day brings something different.

BPA

Member of the British Parking Association

REO

Member of the REC