City Cast Pittsburgh logo

How To Be an Election Poll Worker in Allegheny County

Posted on February 19, 2024   |   Updated on September 30, 2025
Francesca Dabecco

Francesca Dabecco

Help your neighbors do their civic duty. (SDI Productions / Getty)

Election day is only a couple months away. (SDI Productions / Getty)

Pennsylvania has more than 9,000 voting locations, and elections can’t run smoothly without volunteers at each polling place. Help your neighbors do their civic duty by applying to be a poll worker for the primary on April 23.

Who Qualifies?

You must be a registered voter and can only serve in the county you reside in. If you’re a current government employee or official, you probably can’t volunteer; exceptions include district judges, notaries publics, or members of the National Guard.

What Are the Duties?

Poll workers set up, open, and close the polling place; record the names of voters; check them in; and assist with election equipment. There are a few specialized poll worker positions that are elected by the local election board. Volunteers must be available 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on voting day.

How Do I Prepare?

There’s a mandatory training session either in person or online, as well as supplementary training courses.

Are There Perks?

The number one perk is getting to know your community and helping them during this important democratic process. But depending on your position, you can also get paid between $75 and $200 for the day.

That Simple? Sign Me Up!

Share article

Hey Pittsburgh

Stay connected to City Cast Pittsburgh and get ready to join the local conversation.

Can't subscribe? Turn off your ad blocker and try again.

Pittsburgh Life Hacks

See All