Poll Workers Needed For Nov. 6 Election In Suburban Cook County

COOK COUNTY, IL -- The Cook County Clerk’s Office is assembling election day workers for the Nov. 6 Gubernatorial Election. Election day workers are needed to serve throughout suburban Cook County.

Poll workers are especially needed in Orland Park, Justice and Hodgkins. The clerk’s office is also looking to staff several north suburbs. Cook County Clerk David Orr has placed special emphasis on the need for poll workers who are bilingual to serve Spanish-speaking, Chinese, Korean and Southeast Asian voters. College and high school students are also encouraged to become poll workers.

“We have a record number of registered voters in suburban Cook County, and that includes many prospective voters from our various ethnic communities,” Orr said in a news release. “Our poll workers must serve every one of these voters, and that includes people who may be more comfortable with their native languages, particularly if they have questions about the voting process.”

Applicants must complete the required training, set up the voting equipment the night before Election Day and serve from 5 a.m. until the results are transmitted and the equipment has been packed on election night. More than 7,000 poll workers will be needed throughout suburban Cook County on Election Day.

There are two positions available: Election Judge and Equipment Manager. Both assist voters and ensure the polling place is running smoothly. Equipment managers have greater responsibility for setting up and maintaining the voting equipment. Election judges earn $200 and equipment managers earn $340. Due to the additional responsibilities, equipment managers receive more training and higher pay.

“Democracy doesn’t just happen,” Orr said. “It depends on election judges and equipment managers who serve voters and keep the precincts running smoothly each Election Day.”

Any voter who wishes to serve on Election Day is encouraged to apply soon, so they will have time to take part in training classes. Prospective Election Day workers can apply online at the Cook County Clerk website, or call 312-603-0965.

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