Election judges needed to work March 15 primary

Cook County Clerk David Orr encourages North and Northwest suburban Cook County voters to serve their communities and earn some money in the process by working as election judges and equipment managers in the March 15, 2016 presidential primary election.

"Every election, nearly 10,000 election judges work to make sure polling place operations in suburban Cook County run smoothly and elections are carried out fairly, honestly and accurately," Orr said. "Having a broad spectrum of community members working together to serve voters in local polling places is a critical part of the democratic process." With Election Day just three weeks away, the Clerk's office is working to fill a need for poll workers throughout the north and northwest suburbs, ranging from the Evanston and Wilmette area to towns around and including Wheeling, Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates and Streamwood.

"Openings for poll workers remain in these communities and I want to ensure, by getting the word out weeks in advance, that voters in these areas know how to get involved," Orr said.

Anyone who wishes to serve on Election Day is encouraged to apply soon, so they will have time to take part in training classes. Prospective poll workers can apply online, at cookcountyclerk.com/judges or by calling (312) 603-0970.

Election judges are responsible for supervising the conduct inside polling places and facilitating the voting process. Election judges representing both parties - Democrat and Republican - are needed. Bilingual judges are always needed, as well.

Election judges must either be a registered Cook County voter or an eligible high school or college student. Poll workers must have transportation to and from their polling place.

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. Because of the additional responsibility, equipment managers receive more training and higher pay. Election judges earn $175. Equipment managers earn $325.