When each election takes place, we need people to work at polling stations and at the count. If you’d like to get involved, you can take a look at the different roles on offer and register your interest.
Who can take part
- You must be a least 16 years of age.
- You must also be entitled to work in the UK in accordance with the provisions of the Asylum and Immigration Act 1996.
- You can’t work on behalf of a candidate during an election campaign or be related to a prospective candidate.
Roles
Find out about the roles, skills that are needed and the rates of pay.
Register your interest
If you're interested in working at the next election you can contact us by:
- emailing us at electoralservices@barnsley.gov.uk
- calling (01226) 773070
After you've registered your interest with us you'll be able to access our Elector8 system to look for jobs.
Looking for jobs
Once you’ve registered you'll receive a username and password for the Elector8 Staffing Portal. Here you can submit personal information, confirm when you are free to work and accept offers for roles to work during an election.
You can use the handy Elector8 Staffing Portal guidance to help you find your way around the system.
Working at Elections
Hear from some of the people who have worked on elections and how it's had a positive impact on them. Read their testimonials and then come and get involved, we'd love you to join us.
Ben - Poll Clerk and Presiding Officer
"I started working on the elections as a Poll Clerk whilst I was a student for a bit of extra cash. Since then, I’ve become a Presiding Officer, which involves ensuring a polling station runs smoothly. I’ve worked on the elections in some capacity for around ten years now, and whilst it’s a long day it’s worth it for the money. Ensuring Barnsley residents can exercise their democratic right to vote and getting to meet the people of Barnsley!"
Josh - Poll Clerk, Presiding Officer and Count Assistant
"I've worked as a Poll Clerk, Counting Assistant and Presiding Officer working across local and general elections. I've even worked the final European Parliament election in 2019. I started off as a Poll Clerk when I first moved to Barnsley in 2017. I've worked at multiple polling stations across the borough in community halls, churches and even a pub. In recent years I've been a Presiding Officer at a local church where I've been responsible for opening and closing the polling station. Along with overseeing the administration of voting in the polling station. Working at a polling station is a great way to engage with people who you wouldn’t usually get the opportunity to meet.
I got involved in working local elections before I started working at Barnsley Council as I have an interest in elections and democracy. I would and do recommend working the elections to others as an interesting day. You get the sense of satisfaction knowing you are contributing towards local and national democracy. Working on the elections as a council employee has provided an opportunity for me to work with colleagues who I wouldn’t usually engage with in my day to day role."
Susan - Poll Clerk, Postal Vote Opening Clerk and Count Assistant
"I have built relationships with other Postal Vote Opening Clerks who like myself enjoy the role.
You do need good communication and counting skills for this role. The floor staff are very knowledgeable and keep you on track when they open the black boxes.
Councillors are usually present at the post opening sessions so it is very important you conduct yourself in a professional manner.
Would I do this again –100%."
Carol - Count Supervisor and Postal Vote Opening Team Leader
“I’ve been helping out on elections for as long as I can remember. I’ve learned new skills which in turn has grown my confidence. I've made new friends along the way and it allows me to earn a bit extra too.”
