Poll workers take their oaths at the Cameron County Courthouse polling place on March 5, 2024 in Brownsville, United States. 15 States and one U.S. Territory hold their primary elections on Super Tuesday, awarding more delegates than any other day in the presidential nominating calendar. (Photo by Michael Gonzalez/Getty Images)
Poll workers are key to a healthy democracy, helping ensure elections across the country run smoothly. Not only do they hand out those cool “I voted” stickers and answer questions during the early voting period and on Election Day, but they also make sure everyone’s vote is included in the final tally by counting absentee ballots. The work can be hard, but it’s necessary to ensure fair elections.
There are different positions needed to run an election. Election judges and election clerks are the most common, but there are also poll watchers — people designated to observe the conduct of voters and report suspicions. Poll watchers are appointed by a political party or candidate only if they suspect obstruction.
Many polling locations in Texas are looking for bilingual clerks. There is great need for clerks who are fluent in Spanish, as well as Vietnamese.
If you’re interested in becoming a poll worker in Texas for the 2024 election cycle, we’ve put together a handy FAQ with answers..
First of all, what do poll workers actually do?
They set up voting machines and prepare the location to open to the public by placing signage and other materials in accessible areas. A poll worker will check the IDs of all voters entering the polling place, and answer questions the voters might have. When voting is closed, poll workers will check for discrepancies and make sure there are the same amount of votes as there were people who checked into the polling place.
Some poll workers may count votes, if needed, and may also be responsible for transporting voting materials to a county clerk or an elections administrator. Election judges are essentially managing the polling place on the voting day and election clerks work under the judges to carry out the tasks above. These types of positions are open to the public and paid roles. There’s training needed before the election begins, but extensive election or politics knowledge is not a prerequisite.
How many poll workers are needed to run elections in Texas?
It depends on what county you live in. For example, Tarrant County usually needs 2,500, while Dallas County needs about 3,000.
What are the requirements of being a poll worker?
All election workers must be fluent in English. You must be registered to vote in the county you’re assisting. You also need to be 18 years of age or older, and not related to a candidate or work for them.
However, the Student Election Clerk program allows some 16- and 17-year-olds to work elections with consent from a parent.
Background checks will be conducted on all poll workers.
Can I get paid to be a poll worker?
Yes, election workers get paid hourly. Dallas County election judges get paid $24.22 an hour, while clerks make $18.24 an hour, but pay varies by county.
Is there training required to be a poll worker?
In Texas, all poll workers must take an online training course consisting of six lessons. After you pass the test at the end of the class, a certificate is generated that you can submit to the election judge presiding over your polling place and become an official poll worker.
How long would I be working?
A typical polling place might be open from 7 a.m. to 7 or 8 p.m., and poll clerks can usually determine their working times if they’re maintaining a minimum of four hours.
Why should I consider becoming a poll worker?
Working the polls is a great way to ensure elections stay free and fair. There has been dire need for poll workers over the years, and as voting periods expand with early voting and mail-in, there’s an even greater need for paid and volunteer workers. Becoming a poll worker helps keep polling locations open and early voting available to all Americans, no matter their schedule or circumstance.
How do I sign up?
If you live in Dallas County, fill out this form.
Tarrant County residents can complete this online form, and email or mail it in.
Folks living in Collin County can submit this form.
Sign up here if you reside in Kaufman County and want to work the polls.
If you live in Ellis County, submit your interest form with this link.
Denton County residents can apply here.
