Earn $110 helping ensure elections are fair - NBC12.com - Richmond, VA News

We could see a record number of people voting this fall in the election and Richmond needs more people to work at local precincts. The Richmond Registrar's Office is looking for 1,000 Election Officers to work the polls on election day.

One thousand election officers are needed to set up voting machines, make sure people show up at the right precinct and even count votes.

Richmond will need double the number of election workers as usual with Virginia set to be a key state in the battle for the White House. 

It won't be as glamorous as working at campaign headquarters on election day, but it's just as important. Election workers make your right to vote a reality.

Kirk Showalter is the general registrar in Richmond. She's looking to hire a thousand people for one day of work.

"It is a long day," Showalter said. "But what better way can you see the inside of a presidential election than as an election officer?"

She needs twice as many as last year because it's a presidential election. Virginia has set turnout records during the last few presidential contests and this year looks like it'll be no different.

"When they're done, they have great pride in helping the City carry off what is likely to be a huge election," she said.

The only qualification you need is to be a registered voter in Virginia.

You don't have to be a political junkie or involved in party politics, in fact it's better if you're not, but by law you would have to represent one of the political parties at the precinct.

Plus workers go home $110 richer for their work.

"We realize it is not a whole lot of money for a very long day but people don't do this for the money generally," said Showalter. "They do it because they're committed."

Election officials say the work may not be exciting but you'll be busy enough not to be bored. Plus you're supporting one of the fundamental freedoms of living in a democracy.

"It's the greatest way you can serve your community is serving as an election officer," Showalter added. "Without elections, we don't have our current form of government at all."

The hours range from as early at 5:15 a.m. to as late as 10 p.m.

All new Election Officers must complete basic training classes that will be provided at different times during the months of September and October. Election Officers completing basic training will be paid $15.00.

To apply, pick up an application from the Office of the General Registrar in Richmond City Hall or download it from their website at  http://www.richmondgov.com/Registrar/index.aspx. You can also apply online at www.sbe.virginia.gov

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