Voter Registration
Work at the Polls on Election Day!
What is an Election Officer?
Election Officers work at the polls on Election Day to ensure elections are run in an honest and well-organized manner. Arlington County needs approximately 600 Election Officers to work in its 51 precincts for each general election. More are needed for Presidential elections, and less are needed for primaries.
 | Who Can Be an Election Officer?You are eligible if you:
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When Are Election Days, and What Are the Hours Worked?
General elections are held each year on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. Primary elections, if held, are always scheduled for the second Tuesday in June. In presidential election years, presidential primaries are held on the second Tuesday in February. Special elections are scheduled as necessary.
Election Officers arrive at the polling place at 5:00 a.m. on election days, and must remain until the polls are closed and results are called in to Election Central. Polling places are always open from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
What Type of People Work as Election Officers?Just about everyone! We have senior citizens and recent high school graduates; people who work full-time, are self-employed, or are retired; newly-naturalized citizens and those from long-time Arlington families -- a highly diverse workforce, just like Arlington! We are also looking for workers who, in addition to being fluent in English, can speak other languages, especially Spanish. If you are fluent in another language, please so indicate on your application form. |  |
 | What Do Election Officers Do?Most Election Officers work in the precincts. Their duties include:
A smaller number of Election Officers work in the Central Absentee Precinct on Election Day. These workers check the names of absentee voters off lists and tabulate the absentee ballots. |
Is Training Provided?
All new Election Officers are required to attend a two-hour training class. Classes are held prior to each election at several locations. We also offer refresher training classes every year for returning workers, and specialty clinics and workshops. A schedule of training classes offered is included with your assignment information for each election.
Are Election Officers Paid?
Yes, Election Officers receive $150 for each election day worked. Each precinct also has a Chief and Assistant Chief Election Officer. Chiefs are paid $190, and Assistant Chiefs receive $165. Election Officers must work at least one general election before being considered for Chief or Assistant Chief positions.
How Do I Apply?
Print an application form (61 KB, PDF format)
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