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1. What are the duties of a poll worker?

The basic responsibilities of a poll worker is to check in voters on election day and help to maintain a safe, secure and efficient voting system at voting precincts.

2. How many poll workers are needed at each polling place?

Every polling place should be staffed by a minimum of five poll workers:

• Judge of Election - 1
• Inspectors - 2
• Clerks  - normally 2. Sometimes, larger precincts require more staff.

3. What is the time commitment?

There are two elections each year:

1. Primary elections are held on the third Tuesday in May, except during a Presidential year, in which case the primary is held on the fourth Tuesday in April. 
2. General and Municipal elections are held on the Tuesday following the first Monday in November.

The Judge of Elections and inspectors are required to work the full day (6:00AM until about 9:30PM). Clerks can choose to work full or half-day shifts.

4. What are the benefits to being a poll worker?

The benefits of being a poll worker are ever expanding, but include serving your community, meeting your neighbors and making new friends all while getting paid.

5. Are poll workers paid?

Yes, although it is primarily a volunteer position, poll workers are compensated for their respective shifts as well as for attending poll worker training classes. 

 Judge of Elections

Base Pay	$135.00
Training	$75.00
Supplies Pick Up	$20.00
Election Night Drop Off	$20.00
Mileage Reimbursement	Applicable IRS standard mileage rate
Total	$250.00 + mileage

 

Machine Inspectors

Base Pay	$125.00
Training	$75.00
Total	$200.00

 

All poll worker positions, including appointed students

Base Pay	$125.00
Training	$50.00
Total	$175.00

 

Roamers (non-County employees)

Base Pay/Total

$250.00 + mileage

 

Constables

Base Pay/Total

$175.00

6. Am I eligible to be a poll worker?

You are eligible if:

• you are registered to vote in Chester County
• yoiu enjoy meeting new people and serving the public
• you 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
• you are a member of a local board

7. How do I apply?

 Submit the poll worker application below, or contact us at 610-344-6410 or [email protected].

Poll Worker Application

8. What happens if no one runs as an election official or if an elected poll worker resigns?

The political parties and the Department of Voter Services must then fill the position by appointment.

9. Do poll workers receive training?

Yes. Comprehensive training typically begins six weeks before each election. 

10. Can students work at the polls?

Yes, students of good standing who are 17 years of age or older may serve as clerks or machine operators. Students must complete and submit the Student Authorization Form. The form must be signed by both the school and the student's parent/guardian prior to the election.

11. 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 while working the polls.