Becoming A Poll Worker: How It Works and How Much They Get Paid

By Idy Perl

America witnessed historic voter turnout yesterday, and now that the results are in and the excitement is settling, let’s take a closer look at the work of polling station staff, the process behind their vital roles, and how they are compensated.

Thousands of poll workers throughout the US man the polling stations during early voting and on election day to ensure that everything goes smoothly and that every registered voter is able to cast their vote. During the 2020 elections roughly 770,000 poll workers helped at polling sites across the US. 

Poll workers set up the voting equipment, sign in and process voters, demonstrate how to vote, and close the polling site at the end of the day. 

The requirements to be a poll worker in NYC include being a NYC resident and registered voter. Other poll jobs, such as being a translator, do not require being a registered voter. Potential workers can apply on the elections.ny.gov website. 

Poll workers hold various titles—such as election clerk, election judge, inspector, booth worker, warden, or commissioner—depending on the state or county.

Contrary to popular belief, poll workers are not volunteers. They get paid for prior training and for the days they work, and can make up to $250 per day.