Serve as a Chatham County Election Worker

Election workers are vital to ensuring secure, fair, and accessible elections in Chatham County. These paid positions support voters during early voting and on Election Day.

What Do Election Workers Do?

• Set up and close the polling place
• Greet voters and check registration
• Issue and process ballots
• Assist voters with accessibility needs
• Maintain equipment and follow procedures

Who Can Serve?

State Requirements

• Must be a registered voter in Chatham County
• Cannot be a candidate or a close relative of a candidate
• Cannot be an elected official, party officer, or campaign manager/treasurer
• Cannot serve at the same polling place as a spouse, child, or sibling

Check your voter registration status

Chatham County Requirements

• Must be able to read and write
• Must be comfortable using a computer
• Must be able to lift up to 40 pounds

Available Roles

Chief Judge

• Leads the polling place team
• Handles supply pickup and return
• Supervises setup and closing
• Communicates with the Board of Elections

Party Judge

• Represents a political party
• Assists with check-in and ballot procedures
• Works with the Chief Judge to ensure fairness

Election Assistant

• Greets and checks in voters
• Issues ballots and gives instructions
• Assists voters when requested

Training & Pay

Training

• Required before each election
• Paid at $30 per 2-hour session
• Judges attend additional training

Early Voting (Hourly Rates)

• Chief Judge: $15/hour
• Party Judge / Assistant: $13.50/hour

Election Day (Flat Rates)

• Setup: $20
• Election Assistant: $180 full day / $90 half day
• Party Judge: $205 (full day required)
• Chief Judge: $280 (includes supply transport)

All workers must use direct deposit to receive payment.

How to Apply

Step 1: Submit the Application

Apply online using the Poll Worker Application Form or visit the Chatham County Board of Elections in person.

Step 2: Complete New Hire Paperwork

If selected, applicants will receive a packet with required forms, including:

• W-4 and NC-4EZ tax forms
• I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification
• ID documentation
• Direct deposit form
• Emergency contact form

Once complete, individuals are added to our election worker database. When positions become available, the Chatham County Board of Elections will contact eligible individuals by email.

Questions?

See the FAQ below for answers to common questions about serving as a poll worker.