Public Realm Enforcement Officer

We are looking for a confident, motivated and community‑focused Public Realm Enforcement Officer to join our Public Safety service. This is a varied and rewarding role where no two days are the same. You will play a key part in protecting Cambridge's streets, open spaces and neighbourhoods by preventing, investigating and enforcing against a wide range of environmental offences. You will help keep our city clean, safe and welcoming for residents, businesses and visitors.

Responsibilities

• Investigate and enforce against environmental offences such as littering, fly‑tipping, waste issues, illegal advertising, defacement and abandoned or nuisance vehicles.
• Carry out statutory duties for stray dogs, dog control and dog fouling, and enforce relevant City Council Byelaws, Orders and Public Spaces Protection Orders.
• Support multi‑agency responses relating to the travelling community and individuals experiencing homelessness.
• Act as the first point of contact for unauthorised encampments, completing welfare assessments and liaising with County Council departments.
• Deliver day‑to‑day operations of the Public Realm Enforcement Team, including some weekend and evening work.
• Ensure all actions comply with legislation and the Council's Enforcement Policy, contributing to value‑for‑money outcomes.

Qualifications and Experience

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to handle challenging situations professionally.
• Confident decision‑making, with the ability to assess situations quickly and take appropriate enforcement action.
• Ability to work independently, manage your own workload and keep accurate records.
• Good knowledge of relevant legislation or willingness to learn (environmental crime, PSPOs, Byelaws, enforcement procedures).
• Experience or confidence in working with dogs and an understanding of basic dog behaviour.
• Ability to build effective relationships with residents, partners and colleagues.
• Flexible and adaptable, able to work evenings and weekends when required and respond to emerging issues.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Experience in enforcement, environmental crime, dog control, or public‑facing roles is desirable but not essential if you can demonstrate the right attitude and transferable skills.

Work in a role where your actions make a visible difference to the community. Be part of a supportive, experienced team dedicated to public safety.

Benefits

• Equal Opportunity employer – Cambridge City Council embraces diversity and creates an inclusive environment for all employees.
• Flexible working arrangements.
• Generous annual leave starting at 25 days, rising to 30 days after five years' service, plus 8 days public holidays (pro‑rata for part‑time).
• Option to purchase additional leave.
• Family‑friendly policies and flexible bank holidays.
• Confidential well‑being support through the Employee Assistance Programme and Your Care well‑being platform.
• Staff reward and recognition framework, including an annual staff awards ceremony.
• Professional membership fees paid for, dependent on role.
• Salary‑sacrifice schemes including Cycle to Work, Gym Membership and Home & Electronics.
• Lifestyle savings with over 750 discounts from leading retailers, restaurants, supermarkets, attractions and more.
• Free swimming at CCC swimming pools.
• Subsidised public transport.
• Relocation assistance may be payable in approved cases.
• Annually negotiated pay and award progression.
• Additional benefits: learning & development opportunities; access to the Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS) and Additional Voluntary Contribution (Shared AVC) Scheme.

Working Hours and Salary

This is a full‑time role for 37 hours per week. Working pattern: Monday to Friday with occasional weekend work (between April and October), on a rota. Salary: £37,280 – £41,771 per annum (City Pay Band 5).