The Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs (DCBA) helps over 400,000 consumers each year. We can provide so much quality service to the public thanks in large part to the dedicated people in our Volunteer and Internship Program (VIP).

Our volunteers and interns are a valuable asset to DCBA. They offer a wide range of talents and expertise. The time and excellent work they give saves the County over a half-million dollars a year.

As a DCBA volunteer or intern, you can work directly with our staff with:

• Consumer and Small Claims Court counseling
• Mediation
• Investigations
• Special projects

At DCBA, we’re always looking for volunteers and interns to join our team. Here you can work in a professional, friendly environment. We’re seeking people who:

• Enjoy working with people
• Have good listening and analytical skills
• Want to help others
• Appreciate being part of a team

As part of DCBA’s VIP team, you can gain some important benefits. We can help you:

• Explore a new career, or re-enter the workforce
• Share your professional skills
• Gain new skills to enhance your marketability
• Earn college credit (contact your school for more information)
• Strengthen your resume
• Learn about consumer protection issues
• Help consumers in your community

If these qualities fit, DCBA has an interesting and gratifying opportunity for you!

DCBA has challenging and rewarding opportunities available for volunteers and interns. You do not need experience in consumer protection. We can train you for these positions:

Volunteer Mediator

Volunteer mediators resolve disputes between businesses, consumers and neighbors. Volunteers must have a certificate in mediation. Free training is available periodically through our Department.

Consumer Counselor

Consumer Counselors help consumers, homeowners and small claims litigants in person and on the telephone with problems concerning:

• Landlord/tenant issues
• Retail sales and false advertising
• Identity theft
• Home loans and repairs
• Small Claims procedures

Investigative Assistant

Investigative Assistants work with our investigators to resolve consumer and homeowner complaints. They:

• Interview consumers and businesses
• Review consumer complaints to identify relevant facts and issues
• Research consumer laws
• Prepare cases for referral to other agencies

To apply, please complete and mail an application and attach a resume.

All County volunteers and interns must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 as a condition of beginning their assignment.  Candidates who are selected for the volunteer and intern opportunities will be required to submit proof of vaccination against COVID-19 during the onboarding process. Candidates should not present proof of vaccination until instructed to do so by the hiring department.

Download our Volunteer and Internship Application.

For more information contact:
Phone: 213.974.9740
E-mail: volunteer@dcba.lacounty.gov

Address:
Volunteer/Internship Coordinator
Department of Consumer and Business Affairs
Hall of Records
320 W. Temple St. Room G-10
Los Angeles, CA 90012