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Ten Lesser-Known Careers in Public Services 

20 February 2025
Explore our list of unique Public Service roles that you might not have considered.

When people think of public service careers, they often picture police officers, firefighters, or the armed forces. However, there are many other rewarding roles that play a vital part in keeping communities safe and running smoothly.  

If you’re considering a career in Public Services, here are ten lesser-known roles that offer excellent career opportunities. 

1. Patient Transport Service Controller 

  • What: Patient Transport Service Controllers arrange transport to take frail or vulnerable people to and from medical appointments. 
  • Average Salary: £24,000 – £26,000 per year 
  • Key Characteristics: Excellent organisation skills, ability to multitask, strong communication and problem-solving abilities. 

Learn more about this job role 

2. Lifeguard

  • What: Lifeguards look after swimming areas, help swimmers to stay safe and carry out rescues in emergencies.
  • Average Salary: £15,000 – £22,000 per year
  • Key Characteristics: Strong swimming ability, quick reaction times, good observation skills, and calm under pressure.

Learn more about this job role 

3. Security Officer

  • What: Security Officers make sure that buildings, valuables and people are safe and secure. 
  • Average Salary: £20,000 – £35,000 per year 
  • Key Characteristics: Excellent organisation skills, ability to multitask, strong communication and problem-solving abilities. 
  • Alertness, integrity, confidence, stamina, strong communication, and decision-making skills. 

Learn more about this job role 

4. Emergency Care Assistant

  • What: Emergency Care Assistants support paramedics and drive ambulances under emergency conditions.
  • Average Salary: £24,000 – £29,000 per year 
  • Key Characteristics: Compassion, physical stamina, ability to stay calm in emergencies, and excellent driving skills. 

Learn more about this job role 

5. Civil Service Administrative Officer

  • What: Civil Service Administrative Officers work in government departments, carrying out policies and running services for the public.
  • Average Salary: £23,000 – £30,000 per year 
  • Key Characteristics: Organisation skills, attention to detail, good written and verbal communication.

Learn more about this job role 

6. Civil Enforcement Officer (Traffic/Parking Warden)

  • What: Civil Enforcement Officers make sure drivers follow parking regulations on public streets and in car parks. 
  • Average Salary: £20,000 – £28,000 per year 
  • Key Characteristics: Confidence, ability to handle confrontation, good observation skills, and attention to detail.

Learn more about this job role 

7. Border Force Officer 

  • What: Border Force Officers protect UK border entry points like ports and airports, by enforcing immigration and customs regulations.
  • Average Salary: £28,000 – £34,000 per year 
  • Key Characteristics: Strong decision-making skills, physical and mental resilience, and attention to detail. 

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8. Emergency Medical Dispatcher (999 Operator)

  • What: Emergency Medical Dispatchers handle calls from the public and GPs requesting an ambulance.
  • Average Salary: £24,000 – £29,000 per year 
  • Key Characteristics: Excellent communication skills, ability to remain calm under pressure, and quick thinking.

Learn more about this job role 

9. Dog Handler

  • What: Dog Handlers work with specially trained dogs to help detect and prevent crime, find lost or missing people and protect property.
  • Average Salary: £21,000 – £30,000 per year 
  • Key Characteristics: Patience, discipline, strong bond with animals, and good observation skills.

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10. Door Supervisor

  • What: Door Supervisors guard licensed premises like pubs, bars and nightclubs against damage, theft, unauthorised access or disorderly behaviour.
  • Average Salary: £17,000 – £28,000 per year 
  • Key Characteristics: Assertiveness, ability to stay calm in difficult situations, excellent judgment, and good communication skills.

Learn more about this job role 

If you’re looking for a meaningful career that helps others and keeps our community running smoothly, public service is a great choice. Whether you’re interested in security, healthcare, emergency response, or government administration, there are many paths to explore. 

Interested in training for a career in public services?  

Learn more about our Public Services course today and take the first step towards your future.