CONSUMER AFFAIRS TECHNICIAN 5240

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS

Under direct supervision of a higher level Consumer Affairs Specialist, an employee in this class performs entry level work in assisting in the issuance and receipting of occupational licenses, certifications and registrations; the administration and grading of licensing exams; and the performance of routine investigations regarding consumer law violations, consumer complaints and unlicensed contractors according to Suffolk County Code and the New York State Business Law. Incumbents are required to do field work to gather information or perform inspections for the purpose of resolving consumer complaints. The incumbent is to become versed in all trade practices, licensing, and consumer protection laws and regulations administered and enforced by the Suffolk County Department of Labor, Licensing and Consumer Affairs. Detailed instructions and close supervision are received at the beginning of work and on new assignments, but the incumbent is expected to develop ability and to use some initiative and judgment as experience is gained. Work is reviewed through written reports and frequent conferences. Does related work as required

TYPICAL WORK ACTIVITIES

Gathers and reports information regarding violations of labor and consumer protection laws that are monitored by the Department of Labor, Licensing and Consumer Affairs;

Conducts routine onsite visits to businesses, vendors and trade organizations to determine compliance with local laws and requirements;

Provides information regarding compliance with local labor and consumer protection laws to consumers, vendors and the public while in the field;

May prepare notices of violation to vendors and licensees and forwards notices of violations to supervisor for review and action;

Assists in the review of license applications and renewal applications;

May assist in administering and grading written and/or practical tests for trade licenses;

Accesses the Department’s computerized database to obtain information about various licenses;

Assists in conducting research for the protection and education of the consumer.

FULL PERFORMANCE KNOWLEDGES, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS

Some knowledge of the applicable New York State and local laws, statutes, court decisions and administrative rulings pertaining to deceptive trade practices; licensing and consumer protection laws; some knowledge of the principles and methods involved in investigative field work; ability to obtain, evaluate and verify information; ability to interpret contracts and consumer law; ability to conduct research via a computerized database; ability to prepare clear, accurate and complete reports; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers and the general public; ability to express oneself clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing; good judgment; tact; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

OPEN COMPETITIVE

Either:

(a) Graduation from a college with federally-authorized accreditation or registration by NY State with a Bachelor's Degree; or,

(b) Graduation from a standard senior high school or possession of a high school equivalency diploma and four (4) years of experience in the construction trades or industrial licensing or regulation, or in the investigation of violations of federal, state or local laws, codes or ordinances; or,

(c) An equivalent combination of education and experience as defined by the limits of (a) and (b).

PROMOTIONAL

One (1) year of permanent competitive status as an Investigations Assistant.

NECESSARY SPECIAL REQUIREMENT

At the time of appointment and during employment in this title, employees will be required to possess a valid license to operate a motor vehicle in New York State.

R 11/06/24

SUFFOLK COUNTY

Competitive