Election Workers FAQ

What is an Election Worker?

Election Workers are highly trained individuals who are active voters, serving their community and local government proudly. Elections Workers interact with the public and are able to work well in stressful situations.

What are the requirements to become an Election Worker?

If you’re interested in becoming an Election Worker, the following requirements must be met:

Must be registered to vote in Osceola County, or eligible to register.
Should be able to fluently speak, read, and write in English.
You must attend a mandatory orientation session prior to working at the polls. Attendance/completion does not guarantee that you will work, only that you are on the active Election Worker list.
Must be willing and able to work a long day of 14+ hours. Leaving and returning to the polling location is not permitted.
Mandatory job specific training is required before each election you work.
Must be present and ready to work on Election Day from 5:45 AM until the work is completed after the polls close at 7 PM. All workers leave together.
If you are an immediate family member of a candidate or are actively working on a candidate’s campaign, you are not eligible to serve as an Election Worker.
It is essential to remain non-partisan and avoid making political statements or wearing political garments on Election Day.
There are physical requirements including standing, bending, stooping, lifting objects up to 30 pounds, having normal vision, and possessing manual/physical dexterity.
As a responsible team player, you must enjoy working with all types of people.

What positions are available at the polls on Election Day?

Clerk:

Manages the operations of the polling place in accordance with Florida law
Communicates with the Elections office to resolve voter eligibility questions
Picks up supplies prior to Election Day
Returns required election materials to the Elections Office on Election Night
Communicates and coordinates with the election workers at their polling location.

Voter Information Specialist:

Processes the appropriate forms to update the record of an eligible voter
Communicates with the Elections Office to resolve voter eligibility questions
Processes voters at check-in using an electronic pollbook

Technical Support Operator:

Assists voters using the tabulation equipment and hands out “I Voted” stickers
Uploads results on Election Night
Must be comfortable working with electronic equipment
Responsible for setup, maintenance, and breakdown of voting equipment
Provide Tech support at polling location

EViD Operator:

Processes voters at check-in using an electronic poll book
Issues ballots to qualified voters
Directs voters with eligibility questions to the Voter Information Specialist

Poll Deputy:

Greets & assists voters entering and exiting the polling room
Monitors the 150 ft. No Solicitation Zone
Maintains order at the polling location and ensures that all political activity outside meets legal requirements

Is it a paid Position?

Yes, the Supervisor of Elections Office offers paid positions, with the rate of compensation depending on the type of position. As an Election Worker, you can earn $240-$370 on Election Day, which includes all training.

No compensation is available for Election Worker orientation sessions.

Is training required?

Yes, it is mandatory for all Election Workers to attend training prior to each election, with a minimum of two hours required. The length of training varies depending on the position that you are filling, and online training is also mandatory following the in-person training.

Is there a test?

Yes, potential Election Workers must pass a basic skills assessment that measures simple arithmetic and alphabetizing during orientation. Additionally, at the end of the training, each Election Worker will need to pass a quiz to demonstrate their understanding of their role on Election Day.

How will I know where I will work?

The Supervisor of Elections Office will notify you of your work assignment via email. Your placement will be based on experience, party balance, home precinct, and work history from prior elections. Although we try to assign you to a polling location close to your home precinct, you must be willing to travel if necessary.

If I am working, how will I vote?

Election Workers who are working outside of their home precinct can request a Vote by Mail ballot and return it before Election Day. Additionally, Election Workers can vote early at one of our 9 Early Voting locations.