Officer of Election

Last Updated: May 8, 2024

An Officer of Election assists voters and ensures that policies and procedures concerning the conduct of elections are followed at each of Harrisonburg's precincts. 

The Harrisonburg Electoral Board is responsible for conducting elections in Harrisonburg and appointing Officers of Election. 

 

Qualifications

To become an Officer of Election in the City of Harrisonburg, you must:

  • Be a United States citizen
  • Be a resident of the Commonwealth of Virginia
  • Be 18 years old by the next general election
  • Have had your voting rights restored if you have ever been convicted of a felony
  • Have had your capacity restored if you have ever been declared mentally incapacitated in a Circuit Court

Those appointed must be:

  • A qualified voter of the Commonwealth of Virginia
  • Committed to the electoral process
  • File an oath with General Registrar’s office 

Duties

  • Setting up and closing the polls
  • Demonstrating voting equipment
  • Issuing ballots to voters
  • Overseeing election procedures to ensure a fair and impartial election
  • Assisting in certifying the number of votes cast at the precinct

Training

  • Officers of Election are required to attend instructional training before each election to receive the most up-to-date information available to assist them in their duties at the polls
  • Training sessions are usually held two weeks before each election

Hours

  • Officers of Election work from 5:00am to 8:00pm and must provide their own transportation to and from the polls on election day
  • The polls are open from 6:00am to 7:00pm
  • All Officers of Election must report to the polls at 5:00am and remain until results are reported to the Harrisonburg City Electoral Board after the polls close

Compensation 

  • Compensation for services as an Officer of Election of the City of Harrisonburg ranges from $200 to $275 per election depending on the position

Questions?

Please contact the Registrar’s office for more information:
Mark.Finks@harrisonburgva.gov or call 540-432-7707

Sign Up 

You can apply to be an Officer of Election by one of these methods