Secretary of State Alex Padilla is seeking poll workers in their local communities for the upcoming Nov. 6 general election.
“This November, young adults have the opportunity to serve the community by volunteering as a poll worker,” Padilla said. “You can play an important role in ensuring a smooth election. Don’t miss this opportunity for hands on-experience in the democratic process by helping to run a polling place. Poll workers make our democracy possible.”
He said that county elections officials especially need “more bilingual poll workers” to insure equal access for all voters. Bilingual volunteers are often paid extra to serve as poll workers.
You don’t have to be an adult to qualify. “Starting at 16, you can also earn while you learn. High school students are eligible to serve as paid poll workers once they turn 16 and have at least a 2.5 GPA,” Padilla added.
Poll workers are responsible for setting up and closing a polling place; help voters understand their rights; and protecting the integrity of the ballots and voting equipment.
Those interested in serving as poll workers should contact their county elections office to sign up. Positions are paid and available in all parts of the state.
County elections officials provide training to poll workers. The Secretary of State’s newly updated poll worker training standards are available online here.
For those interested in becoming a poll worker, visit: https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/poll-worker-information/
For those students interested in becoming a poll worker, visit: https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/student-mock-election/student-poll-worker/