The Dynamic Duo: Camera Car And Spotter Drivers Explained

A camera car driver spotter is responsible for driving a company car equipped with surveillance and tracking equipment, including a camera system and/or license plate recognition software, to locate and repossess vehicles. This role often involves heavy surveillance and working closely with recovery agents. While prior experience in driving and/or repossession is preferred by some employers, it is not always required, as training can be provided.

Camera car drivers use License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology to scan license plates

A camera car driver spotter is responsible for driving a company car equipped with a camera system and, in some cases, a tablet to run accounts. They use License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology to scan license plates. LPR is an image-processing technology that identifies vehicles by their license plates. The system uses illumination and an infrared camera to capture the front or rear of the vehicle, and then image-processing software analyses the images and extracts the license plate information.

LPR cameras must be more precise than the average commercial security camera, capturing clear images of moving vehicles in around 20 milliseconds or less. The cameras must also consider factors that could lead to an obscured image, such as headlight glare.

Once the LPR camera has captured the license plate image, its firmware uses license plate specialised Optical Character Recognition (OCR) routines to translate it into digital (machine-readable) characters. The OCR software reads the characters on the license plate, separating each character by finding the space between each letter. In some cases, two images may be produced to distinguish between similar-looking characters, such as 0 and O.

LPR technology is used in various industries, including parking management, toll collection, law enforcement, and vehicle repossession. It provides a cost-effective solution for companies and their customers, improving efficiency and the customer experience.

They engage in heavy surveillance and infield interviews

Camera car spotters engage in heavy surveillance and infield interviews. They are responsible for operating company-provided camera cars equipped with surveillance and tracking equipment, such as License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology, to assist in locating and repossessing vehicles. This involves scanning and capturing license plates within designated areas, often in parking lots, to identify vehicles that are subject to repossession or have outstanding warrants.

During infield interviews, camera car spotters directly interact with recovery agents and work closely with their team. They may also conduct interviews with individuals related to the vehicles of interest. It is important for camera car spotters to maintain a discreet presence while documenting vehicle locations to ensure successful asset recovery operations.

The role of a camera car spotter requires attention to detail, adherence to safety protocols, and strong communication skills. They may need to work independently or as part of a team, collaborating with other drivers, spotters, and recovery agents. The work can be challenging and may involve tense situations, as individuals whose vehicles are being repossessed can become angry or scared.

In addition to their core responsibilities, camera car spotters may also be involved in other tasks, such as keeping inventory and completing redemptions for repossession companies. They may also receive on-the-job training to develop their skills and advance their careers in the industry.

A clean driving record is required for insurance purposes

A camera car driver spotter is a professional driver who operates a company-provided car equipped with surveillance technology, such as License Plate Recognition (LPR) software and cameras. They are responsible for capturing license plates, often to assist in locating and repossessing vehicles.

To become a camera car driver spotter, a clean driving record is required for insurance purposes. A clean driving record is defined as a Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) with no violations, at-fault accidents, or traffic-related convictions for a set amount of time. Insurance companies consider drivers with a clean record as lower-risk, which results in lower insurance premiums. Conversely, a poor driving record with violations, accidents, or convictions can lead to significantly higher insurance rates.

Maintaining a clean driving record is essential for camera car driver spotters as it not only helps keep insurance costs low but also ensures they meet the insurance requirements set by their employers. A clean record demonstrates responsibility and safe driving practices, which are crucial when operating company vehicles and performing surveillance activities.

In addition to insurance benefits, a clean driving record can also enhance employment prospects. Employers often review driving records when hiring for positions that involve driving, such as delivery services or transportation roles. A spotless record showcases the applicant's reliability and lowers the perceived risk for the company.

Therefore, for camera car driver spotters and those seeking driving careers, it is advantageous to maintain a clean driving record. This can be achieved by avoiding violations, accidents, and convictions, as well as addressing any errors or inaccuracies on the record. By doing so, individuals can benefit from lower insurance rates and improved employment opportunities.

Companies provide training for using the camera system and other equipment

A camera car driver spotter is responsible for operating a company-provided vehicle, which is equipped with a camera system and other equipment, to assist in locating and repossessing vehicles. This role involves driving a company car with a mounted camera system, capturing license plates, and running accounts on a tablet.

Companies do provide training for using the camera system and other equipment. For example, Speedie Recovery Inc. offers training for its camera car spotter LPR position, which includes computer program training and instruction on using the camera system. United Recovery and Remarketing also provides training for its Spotter Driver/Field Investigator role, which involves using camera technology to scan license plates.

In addition to training on the camera system, companies may offer instruction on other equipment used in the role. For instance, Unlimited Recovery provides paid on-the-job training for its Spotters/Camera Car Drivers, which includes teaching candidates how to use surveillance and tracking equipment, manage maps efficiently, and work as a team with other drivers and spotters.

Prior experience is not always necessary for these positions, as some companies offer comprehensive training programs to prepare individuals for the role. However, a valid driver's license, a good driving record, and strong communication skills are typically required.

The role involves direct interaction with recovery agents

A camera car driver/spotter is responsible for driving a company car in designated areas to locate vehicles that are subject to repossession. The role involves direct interaction with recovery agents and customers, but the individual does not physically repossess the vehicle.

Camera car drivers/spotters are equipped with a company-issued car that has in-built camera technology. This technology scans other vehicles' license plates as the individual drives, helping to locate vehicles that are to be repossessed. The role also involves communicating with the repossession team to coordinate vehicle pickups.

The role requires a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and the ability to communicate effectively. Some companies may also require a high school diploma or equivalent, and for the individual to be over a certain age, usually 23 or 24.

The work schedule for this role can vary, with some positions offering 20 to 40 hours per week, and others offering full-time night shifts. The pay for camera car driver/spotter jobs can range from $11 to $19 per hour, with some companies offering additional bonuses, incentives, and career advancement opportunities.

Frequently asked questions