Election Judges

Election Judge (Poll Worker) Information 

Thank you for your interest in elections! Election judges (poll workers) are temporary, paid employees trained to oversee voting and assist voters at polling places. It’s a great opportunity to learn about elections and serve your community!

Icon of computer mouse pointer clickingWe are not currently accepting applications


*The City does not have any 2023 elections. Please check back in Spring to apply for our 2024 elections.

We may be unable to place every judge who fills out an application. Those selected to work as election judges will be notified by email. Judges must take 2-3 hours of training and are certified for two years. They may work at one or several elections during their terms of service.

For questions contact the City Clerk’s Office or call 952-895-4490.

Training Materials for Hired Judges:

Election Judge Requirements

You must be:

  • At least 18 years old
  • Minnesota resident for at least 20 days
  • Citizen of the United States (Identification may be required)
  • Able to read, write and speak the English language
  • Eligible to vote and reside in the state
  • Appointed by the municipal clerk
  • Able to attend training sessions (every 2 years)

You cannot be:

  • Related to another election judge in the same precinct and work at the same time
  • A candidate’s spouse, parent, step-parent, child, step-child, brother or sister, or live in same household as candidate
  • A candidate for the election in which you are serving

Payment of Services:

  • Election judges are paid for their services, including all training
  • Regular judges earn $12 per hour and Chair judges earn $15 per hour
  • If you would like to volunteer your time, please let staff know

For more information, see Minnesota State Statutes.

Employers of Election Judges Must:

  • Provide time off from work to employee serving as an election judge
  • Be provided a 20-day written notice from employee serving as an election judge

Responsibilities and Duties:

  • Work at one or several elections during your term
  • Administer election procedures in the voting place
  • Help protect the rights of the voters on Election Day
  • Open and/or close the polls
  • Responsible for all election materials
  • Ensure only qualified voters are permitted to vote only once
  • Distribute ballots
  • Help voters requiring assistance
  • Maintain order in the voting place throughout the day
  • Register new voters at the polling site
  • Process absentee ballots
  • Obtain the results after the polls are closed
  • Certify the precinct election results

Desired Qualifications:

  • Ability to communicate clearly
  • Comfortable with serving a diverse population
  • Ability to remain impartial and courteous
  • Physical and emotional stamina
  • Detail-oriented
  • General math skills
  • Fluency in second language is helpful