Election Judge Information

Meet your Neighbors, Be an Election Judge
Are efficient, fair elections important to you? You can help protect voters' rights, serve your community... and be paid to do it.

Minneapolis Election Judge Credo

As election judges we serve as the Gatekeepers of Democracy.

As the public's guardians of freedom within a democratic society, we are responsible for the integrity of the election process.

On behalf of the people of the city of Minneapolis we proudly conduct elections with accuracy, integrity and dignity.

We conduct ourselves and serve the voters in a manner that maintains public trust and confidence in honest and impartial elections.

Election Judge Requirements

  • Eligible to vote
  • Able to read, write and speak English
  • Attend a training class
  • Not be the spouse, parent, child, or sibling of any election judge serving in the same precinct or of any candidate at that election

Election Judge Responsibilities

  • Open and close the polls
  • Register and sign in voters
  • Distribute and collect ballots
  • Operate voting equipment
  • Record and certify the vote totals

Desirable Election Judge Qualities

  • Able to communicate clearly with voters
  • Comfortable working with and serving a diverse population
  • Physical and emotional stamina
  • Attention to detail
  • Simple math skills
  • Fluency in a second language

Election Judge Pay

Minneapolis Election Judges are paid an hourly wage to attend a training class and for service on Election Day. The hourly wage for Minneapolis Election Judges is $8.75 per hour.

State law allows for time off from work without loss of wages to serve as an Election Judge with 20 days prior written notice to the employer. See Minnesota Statute 204B.195.

Scheduling

Full-day (6 a.m. to approximately 9 p.m.) or part-time shifts (6 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 2 p.m. to approximately 9 p.m.) are available. Election Judge assignments are made by the Elections Department. Each precinct is assigned four to 12 judges, depending on the needs of the election.

Brochure

Download brochure (pdf)