Be an Election Worker on Election Day

As part of its efforts to advance a national civic engagement model, classes will not be in session this year on Election Day (Tuesday, November 3). Students, faculty, and staff are not only encouraged to vote, but to make a difference in the civic life of our community by serving as election workers in the county where they are registered to vote.

Who Can Be an Election Worker?

To serve as an election worker, you must be a properly registered voter in that county. Other restrictions may apply. Visit the North Carolina Board of Election Voter Search page to check your registration status. In addition, precinct officials:

  • May not be a candidate or relative of a candidate in the election
  • May not be an elected government official, hold office with a political party or be a manager or treasurer for a candidate or political party
  • May not serve at the same polling place as a spouse, child, spouse of a child, sister or brother
  • Must perform their duties in a nonpartisan manner
What Does Being an Election Worker Involve?

On Election Day, election workers generally work from 5:30am to 9:00pm. Election workers are also required to attend approximately 3 to 4 hours of paid training prior to Election Day. Responsibilities may include the following:

  • Staff polling places on Election Day
  • Set up and close the voting enclosure
  • Check in voters and issue ballots
  • Assist voters upon request
  • Serve at the Help Table and perform research for voters who are not on the pollbook
Can Staff Use Their Employee Volunteer Program Hours to Be an Election Worker?

Yes. The Employee Volunteer Program allows staff to offer their services to the community and volunteer time must be used towards one of Elon’s community partners. Staff should work with their supervisor in advance about taking advantage of this opportunity. When leave is taken in November, staff can select the Volunteer Leave – Board of Elections on their timesheets.

Why Is There a Greater Need for Election Workers This Year?

The North Carolina State Board of Elections encourages voters of all ages to lend a hand to the democratic process in this important presidential election year. Election workers often consist of retirees and older members of a community – groups at higher risk during the COVID-19 pandemic.

How Will Polling Places Be Different With COVID-19 This Year?

The North Carolina State Board is committed to protecting election workers’ health and safety. Appropriate protective equipment, including where applicable masks, gloves, face protection, and cleaning supplies, will be provided, and social distancing guidelines will be in place at polling places this year.

How Do I Proceed If I Am Interested in Being an Election Worker?

To learn more and express your interest in working in the 2020 general election, complete the Serve Democracy – Work in Elections webform.

If your services are needed in the county where you are registered, a county election official will contact you. Filling out this form does not mean you will automatically be selected as an election worker.

 

Election Resources