Become an Election Judge

Election judges are essential to our democracy. Election judges are responsible for administering election procedures in each polling place on Election Day. Serving as an election judge is a great opportunity to serve our community and to be involved in the election process.

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 (Minnesota Statute 204B.195).

If you are interested in applying to serve as an election judge, contact City Hall at 507-665-6401 or by email.

Qualifications & Job Details

Election Dates

  • General: November 8th

Hours

  • 6:30am to 1:30pm
  • 1:30pm to 9:00pm

Election Judge Pay

  • $9.50 per hour

Requirements

  • You must be at least 18 years of age, a U.S. citizen and a Minnesota resident for at least 20 days
  • Able to read, write and speak English understandably
  • Attend mandatory training (2 to 3 hours - paid time)
  • Not be the spouse, parent, child or sibling of any election judge serving in the same precinct or of any candidate at that election

Qualifications

  • Ability to communicate clearly with voters
  • Ability to remain impartial
  • Physical and mental ability to perform assigned tasks
  • Attention to detail and general math skills
  • Ability to understand and follow election laws and procedures
  • Comfortable with assisting and serving a diverse population

Duties

  • Set up and close down the polling place
  • Register and sign in voters
  • Ensure all qualified voters are permitted to vote
  • Demonstrate how to vote
  • Distribute ballots
  • Operate voting equipment
  • Help voters requiring assistance
  • Record and certify precinct election results