Poll Workers

Poll Worker Application

  1. Poll Worker Application (PDF)


POLL WORKER FAQ’s 

Qualifications to Be a Poll Worker:

  • Be at least 16 years old
  • Be a registered voter in Blount county (if 18 or older)
  • Be able to read and write in the English language
  • Not be a candidate or close relative of a candidate
  • Not be supervised by a county or municipal elected official on the ballot

Poll Worker Positions

  • Precinct Officer – in charge of the Polling Place
  • Registrar – checks in voters
  • Controller – issues ballots
  • Machine Operator – assists voters as needed

By submitting an application, you will not be applying for a specific position.

Appointment

Completing an application does not guarantee an appointment.  Poll Workers are appointed by the Election Commission.  Appointments notification letters are sent within 60 days prior to each Election.

Compensation

Poll Workers are compensated $150 for Election Day.  The Precinct Officers in charge each individual Polling Place are compensated at a higher rate.

Training

Poll Workers are required by law to attend a training class before each Election they are appointed to work.  The training is compensated, provided you then work on Election Day as assigned.

Polling Place Assignments (Location & Position)

Poll Workers are not always placed in their Election Day Precinct locations.  Poll Workers are assigned their specific position by the Election Commission.  Multiple factors determine assignments. 

Election Day Hours

Poll Workers report to their assigned Polling Place location at approximately 7:15 a.m.  (Polls are open to voters from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.)   The Precinct Officer will dismiss Poll Workers after all post-closing tasks are completed.

2026 Election Dates

  • May 5, 2026                      (Early Voting will be April 15 – April 30)
  • August 6, 2026              (Early Voting will be July 17 – August 1)
  • November 3, 2026         (Early Voting will be October 14 – October 29)

Government Employees Who Can Serve as Poll Worker:

  • City and County employees (unless working directly under the supervision of an elected official on the ballot)
  • State of Tennessee employees
  • Federal employees – consult your Human Resources Department to ensure eligibility