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1. What are Pollworkers?

Pollworkers are individuals from their voting precinct that have volunteered to work at their local polling location on Election Day.

2. What do Pollworkers do?

The basic responsibilities of a pollworker are to check voters in on Election Day so that they may vote. They also help maintain a safe, secure and efficient voting system at the precinct on Election Day.

3. How many people work at a precinct as pollworkers?

Every polling place should be staffed by a minimum of five (5) pollworkers. A team of pollworkers at a precinct consists of a Judge of Election, two (2) Inspectors and usually two (2) clerks (sometimes larger precincts need more clerks to help staff the location). 

4. What is the time commitment?

There are two elections every year, Primary elections are always held on the third Tuesday in the month of May, except during a Presidential year, in which case the primary is held on the fourth Tuesday in April. General and Municipal elections are scheduled for the Tuesday following the first Monday in the month of November.

The Judge of Election and both inspectors are required to work full day shifts. A full day runs from about 6:00AM until about 9:30PM on Election Day. Clerks can choose to work full day or half day shifts.

5. What are the benefits to being a pollworker?

The benefits of being a pollworker are ever expanding, but some of the great points are: serving your community, meeting your neighbors, making new friends all while getting paid to do it.

6. Are pollworkers paid?

Yes, although it is primarily a volunteer position the poll workers are compensated for their respective shifts each election as well as for attending the provided training classes. Poll workers who work a full day receive $114, half day is $57 and class attendance is $10. 

7. Am I eligible?

You are eligible if you:

• are registered to vote in Chester County
• enjoy meeting new people and serving the public
• are detail oriented, able to take direction well, and not easily distracted
• students are encouraged to volunteer

You are not eligible if you 

• hold another elected position or work for any state, county or other government organization
• are a member of a local board

8. How do I apply?

Complete the Poll Worker Form and email at ccelectionofficials@chesco.org, drop off at our office, or send via ground mail to: Chester County Voter Services, 601 Westtown Road, Suite 150, West Chester, PA 19380-0990.

9. What happens if nobody runs as an election official or if an elected pollworker resigns?

The political parties and Voter Services must then see that these positions are filled by appointment.

10. How can I find out if my help is needed?

We are always looking for volunteers to work the polls, especially those who are willing to travel to other precincts. Contact us at 610-344-6410 or ccelectionofficials@chesco.org.

11. Do you provide training?

Yes we do. Usually our training starts about six weeks before each election. We offer classes that deal with many different aspects of the process at varying times throughout each week (even nights and weekends).

12. Are students allowed to help inside the polls?

Yes, students of good standing who are 17 years or older may serve as clerks or machine operators. The student must complete the Student Authorization Form and hav eit signed by both the school and their parents. This forms needs to be turned in to Voter Services before the next election.

13. Can a Committee person serve as an election official?

Yes, as long as the Committee person does not engage in any political activity while the polls are open and acts in a nonpartisan manner in all dealings inside the polls.