Become an Election Worker

POSITIONS

Warden: The Warden is the Chief Election Officer at the polling location. Generally, the warden supervises the performance of other election officials, maintains order in the polling place, prevents interference with the voting process, ensures adherence to election procedures and compliance with election laws. 

Clerk: The Clerk keeps a record of all facts relating to the election proceedings and notes any unusual happenings during the conduct of the election. The Clerk assumes the responsibilities of the Warden in the Warden’s absence.

Inspector (Election Worker): Inspectors perform election duties under the direction of the Warden/Clerk, including but not limited to, check voters in at the Check-In tables and provide ballots to voters. One inspector will be placed at the ballot box in each precinct and will assist voters with casting their ballots to ensure they are properly read by the voting machine. 

Hours

The morning shift of election workers arrives at the polling place at 6:00am to help open the polls. The closing shift of election workers must remain until the polls are closed and results are tallied. Polling places are open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.  There are 6 available shifts to work each election: 6:00am - 11:00am; 11:00am - 4:00pm; 4:00pm - close; 6:00am - 1:00pm; 1:00pm - close; and the full day.  

Requirements

  1. Are a registered voter in Massachusetts
  2. Be available to work on Election Day 
  3. Be able to read and write in English and speak clearly
  4. Not be a candidate for any office to be voted on the ballot for that election
  5. Be able to sit or stand for extended periods of time
  6. Attend annual training hosted by the Town Clerk’s Office
  7. Enjoy interaction with the public and
  8. Are detail-oriented, dedicated, efficient, patient, friendly, able to take direction well and not easily distracted.

How to Apply

  1. Please click here Version OptionsBecome a Poll WorkerHeadline POSITIONS to fill out the Election Worker Interest Form
  2. Complete a hiring packet. If you have any questions please email humanresources@amherstma.gov or call Human Resources at 413-259-3009
  3. Don't forget to include copies of the required ID(s) with your hiring packet
  4. Documents can be dropped off in the drop box outside of Town Hall (Main Street entrance, Collector’s Box), in person to Human Resources or by mail to:  Human Resources, 4 Boltwood Ave., Amherst, MA  01002.

Training

There is mandatory annual training for ALL election workers. Notification for trainings will be sent out by email prior to the election. Please keep our office informed of any new/updated email addresses.  

Pay 

Election Workers are paid hourly. New rates effective January 1, 2023:

Title
Hourly Rate
Inspector/Election Worker$15.45
Election Clerk
$16.50
Election Warden
$17.62


Compensation for services is taxable as an election worker though it is not subject to income tax withholding under Internal Revenue Code (IRC) Section 3401(a). However, Section 3402(p) allows employers and employees to enter into voluntary agreements to withhold income tax from wages for services performed. Election workers may request this voluntary income tax withholding by completing a Form W-4, Employee’s Withholding Allowance Certificate.

Student election Workers 

Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 54, Section 12 permits no more than 2 such election workers [in a given precinct] may be appointed who are:

  • 16 or 17 years of age 
  • Residents of the Commonwealth
  • United States citizens when appointed
  • Able to speak, read and write the English language
  • Have provided a letter from a parent or guardian giving permission for them to serve as an election worker
  • Have provided a letter from their school principal giving permission for them to be absent from school to serve as an election worker if the election or a training will take place when school is in session or, if home schooled, have provided a copy of the document indicating approval to be home schooled 
  • Agree to attend required training sessions
  • Obtain a work permit if receiving pay. Work permits for children ages 14 through 17 may be obtained at: Main Office, Amherst-Pelham Regional High School, 21 Mattoon Street, Amherst, MA 01002 (Ph: 413-362-1701)
  • If a student election officer attends a school that encourages or requires community service, serving as an election worker may be considered a community service activity