Poll Worker 101
Depending on the election, the Registrars hire between 150 and 225 poll workers. Only 70% of the poll workers return each year, so new poll workers are always welcome to apply.
The Basics
Working the polls is a wonderful service to the community. And you get paid as well. The pay ranges from $225 to $315 per day. It does require working a long day, and getting trained, and dealing with individuals who may at times be frustrated (or frustrating!).
In very rare cases, poll workers have even been fined by the State Elections Enforcement Commission if they do something wrong. All that being said, in 99.9% of the cases working the polls is a rewarding experience as you help to facilitate democracy.
Please note: After completing the poll worker application, you will become part of our pool of prospective poll workers. Not all poll workers work every election. The number of poll workers for each election is determined by the size of the election and the expected turnout. Poll workers are chosen to work a specific election by their availability, willingness to work in different locations, and the number of workers needed.
In addition, we strive to fill most positions five weeks before an election. If you are applying after this date it is unlikely you will be hired for the current election, but we will keep you on the list.
What You Need to Know
- Poll Workers will be working a minimum of 15 consecutive hours at an election or primary. Poll workers are expected to bring their own lunch and dinner, and will be given appropriate meal and rest breaks. (In some extraordinary cases, a Registrar may hire a "pair" of poll workers to split a position for a day).
- Depending on the position, poll workers will need to come to a training class which lasts 1 hour. For more complex positions (Moderator and Assistant Registrar), training is 3 hours.
- Training is required annually before each primary or election.
- Moderators (the Chief Polling Place Official) must also take a 4 to 5 hour class every two years which is given in the evening by a special Moderator Trainer.
In most cases, you will be asked to start at one of the more basic positions (Official Identification Checker or Ballot Clerk). As you grow in experience you may be asked to take a position with more responsibility, such as Assistant Registrar or Moderator. A copy of the training instructions for each of the positions is now online. Please feel free to review them and give the registrars your thoughts on the position you would like to be assigned.