Working at Elections
Have you ever thought of getting involved at election time by either working at a polling station or assisting in the counting of votes? Do you have spare time throughout the year to go door-knocking as part of the annual canvass of households?
We are always on the lookout for motivated and dynamic staff to fill any vacancies that may occur, and we would love to hear from you if you are interested in becoming involved.
Minimum Requirements
To undertake election or canvassing duties you must:
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Be entitled to work in the UK (in accordance with the provisions of the Asylum and Immigration Act 1996)
- Polling and count staff must not work on behalf of a candidate during an election campaign, nor be related to a prospective candidate
- Polling and count staff must consent to working in excess of the normal working hours provided for by the working time directive.
Jobs Available
Canvass staff
Each autumn canvassers are employed to make personal visits to properties where the occupants have not responded to the annual canvass form. This is to ensure that all eligible residents are registered.
Polling station staff
The polling station staff are responsible for the conduct of the ballot in each polling station. On election day polling station staff are required to work from 6:15am until after 10pm without leaving the polling station.
Counting staff
Counting staff are employed to count the votes either overnight following the election or the day after.
Postal votes staff
Staff are employed to open postal votes in accordance with the election timetable.
Rates of Pay
The rates of pay for election staff vary depending on the job role and the type of election. For example the poll clerk fee for May 2024 elections is £240.
How to Apply
Please complete and return the application form to us. Or for more information please contact:
Democratic and Electoral Services
Gloucester City Council
PO Box 2017
Pershore
WR10 9BJ
Email: elections@gloucester.gov.uk
Telephone: 01452 396203