Parking wardens, make sure that traffic, motoring and parking rules are followed. They patrol the streets, or car parks, to check vehicles are parked legally and parking fees have been paid.
The Work
Parking wardens usually work for a local authority or for a private company contracted to the local authority.
You could be:
patrolling an area, checking traffic movements and looking for illegally parked vehicles
taking photographs of parking offences and using a handheld computer to issue `penalty charge notices` (parking tickets) for illegally parked vehicles
directing drivers and pedestrians and advising on parking areas
giving evidence in court if required
informing the police of parking offences that cannot be enforced by a parking attendant
completing forms, making accurate notes and sometimes writing reports
checking parking meter tickets and parking apps, and patrolling local authority car parks to check that drivers have paid for parking
sometimes arranging for vehicles to be towed away, if they have been abandoned, illegally parked or are blocking traffic
reporting any parking meters, signs or road markings that need maintenance.
Pay
The figures below are only a guide. Actual pay rates may vary, depending on:
where you work
the organisation you work for
the demand for the job.
Salaries for parking wardens vary depending on local authority but are around £25,000 to £29,000 a year. You might also get a shift allowance and there may be opportunities for overtime. You are provided with a uniform and protective wet weather clothing.
Conditions
You report to the office at the start and end of each shift, but you will be outdoors in all weathers.
You will work a 35 to 40 hour week, in shifts, probably on a rota basis including: early mornings, possibly late evenings, and weekends.
You will cover several miles a day (sometimes in a vehicle).
You will carry and operate a handheld computer and a camera.
You will be provided with a uniform.
You may face some hostility from the public.
Getting In
Formal qualifications are not always necessary, but a good general education is useful including English and Maths to National 4.
Previous experience working in a customer services role may be beneficial.
Basic knowledge of computer programmes is necessary.
You may have to take an entry test, including writing skills, and possibly numerical skills.
You usually need to know the local area you will be patrolling.
You will likely need a full driving licence.
You should have knowledge of the Highway Code.
It is helpful if you have experience working with the public.
You should be fit enough to cover several miles a day, perhaps up to 15.
Jobs are often with local authorities. These positions are advertised on myjobscotland website.
able to deal with difficult situations and stay calm under pressure
honest and reliable
able to work alone or as part of a team.
Training
Training is usually on the job under the supervision of other staff. This will include learning traffic regulations, and completing and issuing parking fines.
You might take some parking qualifications offered by the British Parking Association.
Getting On
With experience, you may be able to become a supervisor, manager, or trainer.
2025
