Election Worker Information and FAQ's

Thank you for your interest in becoming an election worker! Elections are conducted by our neighbors, friends, co-workers and family members. It takes approximately 300 election workers to staff our 30 vote centers in Rutherford County. You are appreciated!

When:

• Tuesday, March 5, 2024
• Thursday, August 1, 2024
• Tuesday, November 5, 2024

Where: 30 vote centers throughout Rutherford County

What: Registrars & Machine Operators

What are the qualifications?

• Must be a registered voter in Rutherford County, Tennessee
• Must be at least 16 years of age and a resident of Rutherford County, Tennessee
• Must not be an elected government official or a manager/ treasurer for any candidate/political party
• Must not be a candidate in the election

What is required?

• Hours of work are 6:00 a.m. until voting and the break down of site is completed. Officer will release you
• Wear acceptable, comfortable shoes and clothing
• NO campaign attire, buttons, or political jewelry
• Bring food and drinks for the entire day. You will receive a lunch break.
• Discussion of politics are not permitted while working at the polls

What is an election worker?

An election worker is a temporary worker for the Rutherford County Election Commission who works on Election Day.

What are the potential job assignments?

There are three potential positions.

1. Officer- The officer leads the vote center team and supports the other poll worker positions.
2. Machine Operator – The Machine Operator assists voters at the voting machine.
3. Registrar – The registrar operates a computer to check in voters and verifies identification before sending the voter to the voting machine.

How are election workers selected?

Each polling location is staffed according to need - we try to place election workers in or near their home if possible. Election workers are divided into political parties based on the party declaration on their application and/or primary voting history. An equal number of workers from each political party is assigned to each polling place.

Will I receive a break while working?

The Officer will allow for breaks but the timing will be coordinated based upon the volume of voters.

Do I have to attend training?

• Training is required under state law. Poll workers must attend training to be eligible to work. Training is a one time class that is offered on multiple dates and times.
• Additional training videos are linked here Training Videos

Do I get paid for working on Election Day?

YesI You will be paid a minimum of $150 for the day. You will receive a check in the mail approximately two weeks after the election.

Why do you need to know my political party?

The law requires political party balance at all polling sites. We staff an equal number of Democratic and Republican poll workers at each site.

How do I apply to become an Election Worker?

• Or print the Election Worker Form and return it to the Rutherford County Election Commission via US Mail or email it to [email protected]
  1 S. Public Square, Suite 103
  Murfreesboro, TN 37130