Becoming a Poll Worker
Poll workers are the friendly, trusted faces at voting stations. They make sure everything runs safely, fairly, and respectfully so every Canadian has a chance to vote.
Whether you’re looking to earn extra income, give back to your community, or gain experience, this is your opportunity to play a key role in Canadian democracy.
Why Work the Polls?
Poll workers are the backbone of Canada’s voting process — especially in the North, where local support matters most.
Be part of something bigger — help protect democratic rights
Get paid for your time and training
Learn about the election process from the inside
Serve your local community in a meaningful way
What You'll Do
Depending on your role, you might:
Don’t worry — you’ll get training before the election to feel fully prepared.
Greet and direct voters
Welcome voters, manage lines, direct them to the correct table, and provide ID and accessibility information.
Help voters register
You’ll set up the registration desk, explain the registration process, check ID, and help electors fill out forms before they vote.
Issue ballots and oversee voting
You’ll check ID, issue ballots, explain how to vote, monitor the process, and count ballots after polls close.
Support the Deputy Returning Officer
You’ll assist with record keeping, manage materials, and help ensure everything runs smoothly at the table.
Lead poll operations and support staff
You’ll oversee all poll workers at your station, manage setup and close-down, enforce election rules, and supervise the ballot count.
What You Need
No experience needed — just a willingness to help and follow the rules.
Be at least 16 years old
Be a Canadian citizen
Live in the area where you want to work
Be available for training and election day
Join Us as a Poll Worker
Support your community and be part of something bigger. Becoming a poll worker is simple — and you’ll get all the training you need.
Step 1
Check Your Eligibility
You must be a Canadian citizen, at least 16 years old, and live in the area where you want to work. No experience needed!
Step 2
Apply Online or In Person
Visit Elections Canada’s website or contact your local office to apply. You’ll need basic info like your name, address, and availability.
Step 3
Attend Training & Get Ready
You’ll receive paid training before election day to make sure you feel confident, informed, and ready to help voters.
Engaging as a poll worker offers young Canadians a unique opportunity to actively contribute to the democratic process, ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and efficiently.
Elections Canada invites Canadian citizens who are at least 16 years old on election day to apply for these vital roles.
Join a Team of Poll Workers
Help make election day happen in your community. No experience needed — training is provided and positions are paid.
Poll Worker FAQs
Find answers to common questions about becoming a poll worker in Canada.
A poll worker assists in the election process by helping voters and ensuring everything runs smoothly. They play a vital role in maintaining the integrity of the voting experience. Without them, the election process would face significant challenges.
To work at a polling station, you must:
- Be a Canadian citizen
- Be at least 16 years old
- Be available on election day (and possibly for training in advance)
- Live in the riding where you want to work
No experience is required! All poll workers receive paid training to help you feel prepared and confident in your role.
Yes. All poll workers are paid for:
- Training time
- Work on election day (and advance polls, if applicable)
Payment amounts vary depending on your position.
Yes! All poll workers receive mandatory, paid training before election day. You’ll learn your duties, rules, and how to serve voters with professionalism and neutrality.
You’ll work at a polling station in your local riding — often a school, community hall, or other public space.
Still have questions?
The friendly people at Elections Canada would be happy to answer any questions you have!