By Laura Haight

Every year, Greenville County fields between 1,500 and 2,000 people to ensure our elections run smoothly and are conducted properly. 

This year, South Carolinians will have true early voting for the first time. In Greenville County, we have seven early voting locations, the most the state permits for any county. That contributes to the need for even more workers this year. 

Polling places are run by poll clerks and staffed by poll managers. Serving is a valuable way to give back to and support your community. It’s one of the most effective ways you can help ensure our democracy works as it should. 

The county election office reports it has nearly filled all the slots for early voting. Now it’s focusing filling slots for the 151 polling places that will be open on Election Day.

Poll clerks and managers are paid ($195 and $135, respectively), but it is a long day – starting at 6 a.m. and ending around 8 p.m.

To be a poll clerk or manager, you must:

• Be registered to vote

• Attend mandatory three-hour training

• Complete the application.

Your responsibilities include:

• Setting up the polling place

• Assisting in conducting the election at your assigned precinct until all closing procedures are concluded.

• Qualifying voters, activating voting machines, giving instructions, assisting handicapped voters, ensuring an orderly flow through the process.

• Providing your own transportation.

• Being politically neutral while working the election.

Students can also work the polls. Sixteen- and 17-year-olds have a great opportunity to see our democracy in action and serve as poll manager assistants. Students who will be 18 years old by Election Day must also be registered to vote. Student applicants must provide a recommendation and signatures of two teachers to be considered.