Be a poll worker – GET INVOLVED!

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Are you someone who wants to help the community? Want to be a part of election day? Whether you want to participate in democracy or want to see first hand yourself how things work (and understand and trust democracy), now’s your chance!

I spoke with the Richland County Elections Director earlier today and he said we can always use more poll workers!

Act fast because the mandatory training is this Saturday from 9 am to Noon at the County Elections Office on Hampton Street.

To apply, simply click here and you’ll be on your way! Let me know what precinct you get assigned to work and I’ll come say hello (and thank you) on primary day, June 11th!

Here’s more from the Richland County application page:

Richland County Government is looking for new and former poll workers to staff elections throughout Richland County. As a poll worker, you will have a unique opportunity to become involved in the election process and serve the community.

Qualifications:

Poll Manager’s Oath:

“I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I am duly qualified, according to the Constitution of this State, to exercise the duties of the office to which I have been appointed, and that I will, to the best of my ability, discharge the duties thereof, and preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of this State and of the United States. So, help me God.” (Article III, Section 26, S.C. Constitution) (SC Code §7-13-72)

Poll Managers (18 years of age or older) MUST be registered to vote in South Carolina.
Any 16 or 17-year-old can apply to be a Poll Manager Assistant.
Clerks must be a registered voter in the county in which they are serving or an adjoining county.
Poll Managers may not be a candidate or the spouse, parent, child, brother, or sister of a candidate at any polling place where the candidate’s name appears on the ballot.
Clerk- The clerk is the lead poll manager and supervises the polling place. 

Ensure state law policies and procedures are followed.
Assign roles, arrange the polling place, monitor the flow of traffic.
Maintain an orderly voting process.
Complete paperwork
Ensure equipment is returned.
Complete opening and closing checklists.
Clerk’s Stipend – $195.00

A bonus Stipend may be included for Countywide and Statewide elections.

Poll Manager Roles – Managers will serve in various roles on election day

Responsibilities of a Poll Worker

Must be a registered voter in Richland County or ANY county in South Carolina. Not Required for students ages 16 or 17.
South Carolina Statutes require that all poll workers attend mandatory training sessions for each election cycle.
Assist in the setup of the polling place prior to each election.
Help conduct the election at the assigned precinct from 6 AM and remain until all closing procedures are completed.
Will have duties which include voter registration qualification, activating voting machines, giving voting instructions, and maintain orderly flow at the polling place.
Must have transportation to and from assigned polling place within a reasonable distance of home.
Provide a positive experience for voters while following procedures.  Poll managers must remember that security, accountability, and customer service are key.
Poll worker Stipend – $135

Training:

Training is required for All Poll Workers & Polling Location Technicians.

Poll Managers must be trained prior to every election.  Clerks are required to take additional training.  Training dates will be available 30 days out from an Election.

Physical Requirements:

Physical requirements Include standing, bending, stooping, team lifting voting machines weighing approximately 25lbs., normal vision and manual/ physical dexterity.

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