Serve as an Election Judge
Election judges are responsible for the administration of election procedures in each voting place
on election day. Election judges help guarantee the rights of voters are protected on election
day and that the election process is fair and in accordance with state and federal laws.
Who is eligible?
Anyone eligible to vote who can read, write, and speak English can be an election judge. However, an election judge cannot be a candidate in the election or closely related to a candidate. Each election judge must declare a major political party affiliation, but are not identified by party at the polling place. No more than half of the election judges in a precinct can be members of the same major political party and judges must declare a major political party affiliation. Note: election judges are not identified by party once on the job at the polling place.
Are election judges paid?
Yes. The current pay is between $8.00-9:00 per hour depending upon position.
How about taking time off work?
Minnesota Statute 204B.195 allows individuals to take time off from work, without penalty or
loss of wages, to serve as elections judges on election day(s). A 20-day written notice requesting to be absent from work for this purpose must be submitted to the employer. The request must be accompanied by a certification from the City of Farmington indicating the days and hours the employee will serve as an Election Judge. The employer may reduce the salary of the employee by the amount received for working as an election judge for hours the employee would normally work. The statute makes this decision optional for the employer.
Can students serve as election election judges?
College students make great election judges. Students at least 18 years of age can serve as election judges. High school students 16 or 17 years of age can be trainee election judges.
How are election judges selected?
Appointments are recommended by City Administration, depending on the needs for each election and approved by the City Council.
How are election judges trained?
Judges are required to attend a two-hour training class. Judges are paid to attend the class. Classes are conducted at City Hall.
How can I become an election judge?
Contact the City of Farmington, Administration Department at
651-280-6802, or contact Lisa Shadick, Administrative Services Director, lshadick@ci.farmington.mn.us, and provide your name, address, phone number, and political party affiliation.
Serving as an election judge is a great opportunity to serve the community. Come work with us!
