Cook County Clerk Seeking Election Judges for April 1 Municipal Elections

Earn $250-$400 by Serving as an Election Judge

Suburban voters can do their part for local democracy and earn some cash by working as an Election Judge for the Cook County Clerk’s Office in the April 1, 2025, Consolidated General Election. Clerk Monica Gordon is making a special appeal for judges for the upcoming local municipal elections when voter turnout and Election Judge participation drop significantly. The pay rate for poll workers has increased to $250 for Election Judges and $400 for Polling Place Technicians, and the Clerk’s Office provides training for both positions.

Two Positions Available

The two positions available include:

• Election Judge: These judges greet voters, sign them in, and work together to ensure the polling place is running smoothly and voters are properly served. This position earns $250.
• Polling Place Technician: Technicians work with election judges to check supplies and equipment and assist with the setup, maintenance, and breakdown of election equipment. Due to the additional equipment responsibilities, Polling Place Technicians receive additional training and earn $400.

Bilingual Judges Sought

The Clerk’s Office is also in need of bilingual Election Judges in many precincts with high concentrations of Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Korean, Tagalog, Polish, Russian, Ukrainian, Gujarati, Urdu, and Arabic-speaking voters who are not proficient in English. College and High School students are also encouraged to consider serving as judges.

Why Serve as an Election Judge?

“Every vote cast is a voice heard, and our Election Judges work to ensure that the voting process is smooth, secure, and accessible to all. They truly are the front-line defenders of our democracy.”

Eligibility and Application

Election Judges must be registered Cook County voters or eligible college or high school students (16 or older). Anyone who wishes to serve on Election Day is encouraged to apply as soon as possible so they will have time to take a required training class that best fits their schedule. Prospective Election Day workers can apply online at www.cookcountyclerk.com/work.

FAQs

* What is the pay rate for Election Judges and Polling Place Technicians?
* $250 for Election Judges and $400 for Polling Place Technicians
* What are the responsibilities of Election Judges?
* Greet voters, sign them in, and work together to ensure the polling place is running smoothly and voters are properly served
* What are the responsibilities of Polling Place Technicians?
* Work with election judges to check supplies and equipment and assist with the setup, maintenance, and breakdown of election equipment
* Who is eligible to serve as an Election Judge?
* Registered Cook County voters or eligible college or high school students (16 or older)
* How do I apply to be an Election Judge?
* Apply online at www.cookcountyclerk.com/work