Parking Enforcement Officer

Job Description

The Parking Enforcement Officer plays a vital role in fostering a safe, accessible, and customer-focused parking environment across Vanderbilt University's campus. This position is responsible for enforcing university parking regulations while delivering high-quality, service-oriented interactions with students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

More than an enforcement role, the Parking Enforcement Officer serves as a visible ambassador of the University. This position emphasizes education, engagement, and professionalism-helping campus community members navigate parking resources, addressing concerns, and contributing to a welcoming and well-maintained campus. The role also includes administrative responsibilities and requires sound judgment, attention to detail, and a strong commitment to service excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Parking Enforcement & Campus Operations
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Conduct visible, friendly patrols of assigned areas (on foot or in vehicles) with a customer service mindset.
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Enforce university parking rules and regulations through consistent, fair, and equitable practices.
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Monitor parking lots and garages to ensure compliance with university policies and educate drivers on regulations when appropriate.
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Issue citations respectfully and consistently, ensuring clear and accurate documentation of enforcement actions.
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Coordinate towing or vehicle relocation services with discretion, professionalism, and adherence to policy.
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Support traffic management, event parking coordination, and emergency response activities.
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Post and retrieve signage for special events and communicate parking impacts clearly to the campus community.

Customer Service & Campus Engagement
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Serve as a knowledgeable, approachable, and visible point of contact for parking-related inquiries and campus navigation.
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Respond promptly and courteously to questions, concerns, and service requests from students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
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Provide accurate information regarding parking policies, permits, and campus directions.
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Assist community members with wayfinding and general campus support.
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Act as a University ambassador by fostering a welcoming, respectful, and service-oriented environment in all interactions.

Administrative, Facilities & Team Support
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Maintain accurate records of citations, incidents, and daily enforcement activities using parking enforcement systems and handheld devices.
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Prepare reports, logs, and documentation in a timely manner.
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Monitor parking facilities and report maintenance concerns (e.g., damaged signage, lighting outages, overgrown vegetation) that may impact safety or customer experience.
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Support departmental operations and contribute to continuous service improvement.
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Model and promote a culture of respect, service, and safety; provide informal training or guidance to less experienced officers as needed.

Supervisory Relationships
This position does not have formal supervisory responsibilities but may provide mentoring or lead support to Parking Enforcement Officer staff. Reports directly to the Parking Enforcement Supervisor.

Qualifications
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High school diploma or GED required.
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Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record is required.
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Previous parking enforcement experience is preferred.
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Experience in higher education, security, or transportation services is preferred.
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Strong customer service experience in a public-facing or fast-paced environment.
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Ability to communicate clearly, remain professional, and handle difficult or high-stress situations.
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Strong interpersonal skills and ability to engage respectfully with diverse populations.
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Attention to detail and ability to follow procedures consistently.
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Experience using handheld devices, radios, or similar technology.
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Ability to walk or stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 pounds.
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Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
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Willingness to work flexible schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
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Ability to safely work in environments with traffic, noise, or occasional confrontational situations.

About Us

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of "America's Best Large Employers" as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.

We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.

Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.