Consumer Protection Hotline Volunteer Program (Unpaid)

State of Oregon • Salem, OR

3d

About The Position

Oregon Department of Justice, Consumer Protection Program is seeking members of the community to bring on Consumer Protection Hotline Volunteers. The Consumer Protection Hotline is the first point of contact for Oregon consumers who need assistance with consumer issues, from problems with car dealers to consumer privacy concerns. The Oregon Department of Justice enforces the Unlawful Trade Practices Act, which prohibits unfair and deceptive trade practices in consumer transactions. We are seeking dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers to support our team in providing resources and assistance to consumers throughout the State of Oregon. Our volunteers play a critical role with our team to ensure consumers receive accurate information about their protections under the Unlawful Trade Practices Act. Volunteers assist in guiding consumers to helpful resources, providing basic information, and helping consumers file complaints with the agency. Volunteers and employees of the Department of Justice are prohibited by law from giving legal advice. This position provides a valuable resource to Oregon consumers and the Department of Justice (DOJ) by increasing the hotline’s capacity to respond to inquiries, which in turn enables DOJ staff to process consumer complaints more efficiently. The primary duty of the Consumer Protection Hotline Volunteer is to answer telephone calls from Oregon consumers and provide information or direct them to resources such as the DOJ Consumer Protection website, DOJ Complaint Database, other state and federal agencies with jurisdiction, or other relevant resources. As call volumes fluctuate, there will be opportunities to perform a variety of administrative tasks such as researching solutions for the consumer or directing the consumer to the correct resource.

Requirements

• Must be 18 years of age or older.
• Be professional and have strong communication skills.
• Wear clean and office appropriate clothing. Jeans are acceptable but should not have rips or tears.
• Be dependable and punctual.
• Be courteous when interacting with the public and coworkers.
• Be willing to ask questions and take initiative.
• Be independent but also able to work as a team.
• Respect and maintain confidentiality.
• Basic computer skills are desired but not necessary.
• Be able to sit for an extended period (each desk is equipped with a sit/stand station.)
• Ability to volunteer no less than 2 (total) hours a week.

Nice To Haves

• Basic computer skills are desired but not necessary.

Responsibilities

• Answering incoming telephone calls and assisting consumers who contact the Consumer Protection Hotline.
• Using a computer to research information to direct consumers to consumer protection laws and resources.
• Keep the Hotline Coordinator apprised of new issues arising in the community.
• Logging and tracking consumer calls, as needed.
• Other duties or special projects as needed to support the hotline or community outreach events.

Benefits

• The opportunity to assist, educate and protect Oregon’s consumers from unfair and deceptive trade practices.
• Experience working in an office environment and a State government agency.
• Experience learning about the matters the DOJ takes complaints about and how the complaints are handled.
• Flexible schedule and free parking.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed