Want to Make a Difference on Election Day? Allegheny County Is Looking for Poll Workers

With Election Day approaching, Allegheny County is recruiting residents to serve as poll workers at voting locations throughout the county.

Also known as election officers, poll workers play an important role in helping polling places operate smoothly and assisting voters throughout Election Day.

And yes — the work is paid.

According to Allegheny County Elections, poll workers can earn $150 to $175 for the day, depending on their position. New election officers also receive paid training before the election.

The 2026 General Election will take place Tuesday, November 3.

What Do Poll Workers Do?

Poll workers serve in several roles, including Judge of Election, Inspector of Election and Clerk of Election.

Their responsibilities can include helping operate the polling location, processing voters, assisting voters with special needs, helping voters navigate the voting equipment and assisting with the closing and verification of election results.

The Judge of Election serves as the team leader at the polling location, while Inspectors and Clerks assist with the operation of the polling site and voter processing.

It’s More Than a One-Day Commitment

New election officers are required to complete training before Election Day. Allegheny County says training is offered before each election and includes an in-depth, hands-on session of at least two hours or an interactive online training option. New election officers receive additional compensation for attending training.

On Election Day, poll workers should be prepared for a long day. County guidance says election officers generally serve from 6 a.m. until approximately 9 p.m., when the Judge of Election releases the team.

Who Can Become a Poll Worker?

To serve as an Allegheny County election officer, applicants must:

• Be a registered voter in Allegheny County
• Meet the County’s restrictions regarding current or recent government employment or appointments
• Not be a candidate running for public office on the ballot in that district, with the exceptions outlined by the County
• Perform election duties in a nonpartisan manner

Poll workers should also be comfortable interacting with the public and keeping up with election-related procedures and changes.

What If There Isn’t an Opening Near You?

Applying does not necessarily mean you will be assigned to your neighborhood polling location.

The County says that as the election approaches, applicants will be contacted about available positions. If there is no vacancy in their immediate area, applicants may be asked to consider serving in another location. If there is no nearby opening, the County may retain their contact information for future elections.

Ready to Serve?

For residents looking for a way to participate in the election process while earning additional income, becoming a poll worker is an opportunity to take on an important Election Day responsibility.

Allegheny County is accepting applications now.