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Local Government Markets Officer

Do you want to become a Local Government Markets Officer? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:

Job Description - Print Page

A local government markets (street trading) officer is responsible for the smooth running of market and street trading in their area. They supervise the day-to-day operation of the council's indoor and outdoor markets, ensuring that events are conducted in accordance with council policies and current legislation. The role is varied and covers all aspects of market trading, including:

• ensuring that contracted cleaners are keeping market areas clean and tidy
• seeing that the traders only work within the terms of their contract
• dealing with health and safety issues
• collecting rent from the market stall traders and filling out forms for rent agreements
• addressing issues that may affect local residents, for example traffic concerns, dirt, pollution or noise issues
• writing reports and planning schedules for market locations and regulations.

Markets officers work as part of a team, but most of the time they deal with traders directly. They receive support from an office-based administrator and a manager, who can give advice and guidance if required.

A local government markets officer usually works 37 hours a week. They work on a shift or rota system with a colleague. Hours are generally from 7am to 5pm, four days a week, with three days off. They do not usually work on Sundays.

Salaries range from around £18,846 to £30,000 a year.

A local government markets officer needs to:

• have strong interpersonal skills
• be ‘street wise' and aware of local politics
• be prepared to work outside in all weather conditions, with early morning starts
• know about the legislation relating to trading, environmental protection and highways
• enjoy working with a variety of people.

There are over 1150 retail markets throughout the UK; each market employs at least one markets officer. Opportunities exist with local councils throughout the country.

There are no formal entry requirements, although GCSEs/S grades (A-C/1-3) in maths and English are useful. Entrants may also need two years' previous experience in the enforcement of environment and highway offences. Adult entry is possible.

Training is carried out on the job and through local government courses. Courses cover areas such as risk assessment, COSHH (the control of hazardous substances), and health and safety.

Local government markets officers may gain promotion to managerial roles. With additional training, they can move into other areas of environmental protection.

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