1. No CCE SPSC is not conducted every year. Rather it takes place after every 5 years.
2. Yes it is bit similar to CSS. There are 8 papers, 5 are compulsory and 3 are optionals. It is not as daunting as CSS, but as rotten as board exams. English composition and general knowledge are 2 papers in which most candidates fail.
3. There are number of BPS-17 and BPS-16 posts. Posts include Assistant Commissioner, Section Officer, Excise and Taxation Officer, Labour Officer, AD Labour, District Food Controller, etc. Assistant Commissioner is the key post that everyone eagerly wants.

The key difference is that the process of recruitment through CCE is lengthy, frustrating and extraneous factors such as politics, bribery and source could influence results. But, always be hopeful in past number of candidates have secured even the post of AC with only merit and trust in Allah.