Working at elections 

We're always looking for capable and willing people to help us at busy election times. We offer various paid positions working in polling stations or at the election count.  

Register your interest

If you're over 18 and eligible to work in the UK (you will need to provide proof of this), then we’d love to hear from you.

Register your details using the online form below and we will contact you with details on the next steps.

Register your interest now

Roles

Click on the headings below to find out more about each position. Please note: hourly rates are currently under review.

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  • Presiding Officer

    Presiding Officers are responsible for the conduct of the process in the polling stations. You must have a good knowledge and experience of the voting procedures and processes and been a Poll Clerk at least twice. You will also need to complete in-person training.

    The hours of work on polling day are 6.30am to 10.30pm (approximately). After the poll closes, you will have to return your ballot box and all equipment to the count venue. Access to a car is essential.

  • Poll Clerk

    The Poll Clerk’s role is to assist and support the Presiding Officer in all aspects of running the polling station. You will greet electors, check identification and issue ballot papers. You will have forms to complete throughout the day.

    You will need to complete in-person training. On polling day, work begins at 6.30am. After polls close at 10pm you will need to pack down the polling station equipment. 

  • Count Assistant

    Count Assistants work in a team to verify and count the votes after the polling stations close at 10pm. This can sometimes include working through the night to complete the process. You will receive training at the venue before the count.

  • Postal Vote Opening Assistant

    Electors are able to cast their votes by post in the run-up to the election. A Postal Vote Opening Assistant will manually open postal votes. There are strict procedures and guidelines to follow to ensure the secrecy of the ballot.

    You will receive training before starting. There will be a series of daytime postal vote opening sessions. You can choose how many of these you would like to do. All sessions will take place at The Forum, in Hemel Hempstead.

What our staff say

See what some of our polling station staff say about working on elections:

  • "It’s very satisfying to be part of a team that contributes towards the smooth running of the elections."
  • "It’s always rewarding to be able to help the voters out on the day – they always appreciate it."
  • "It’s good to see this side of the Council, especially if you live within the borough and to know what is going on locally."
  • "It’s a great day. You get to meet lots of new people, both working in the polling station and also members of public coming in."
  • "It’s a great opportunity to be a friendly face for first-time voters. They really appreciate having the process explained to them."

Page Last Updated: Wednesday, 17 January 2024 at 02:59 PM