Election Jobs

Staff to open postal votes on a number of days in the 10 days prior to an election day in accordance with the election timetable.

Election fees

The fees for elections from May 2024 are as below:

• Postal vote clerk: £13.65 an hour.
• Postal vote supervisor: £17 an hour.

Postal vote opening clerk job description

Main purpose of job

To ensure that the postal vote packs returned by electors that have chosen to vote by post are opened, checked and verified in a secure manner. (Votes for candidates are not counted as part of this process).

Working hours

To be available over a number of sessions in the two weeks up to the election. Details to be provided nearer the time. Usually sessions are from 9.30am – 1pm and 2pm to 5pm. This may include weekends and bank holidays. Sessions may be extended or curtailed subject to the requirements of the service.

Main duties

• Count the envelopes received.
• Open and check the contents of the envelopes.
• Count the number of ballot papers received.
• If required, scan documents into the software and electronically check data (full instructions and training will be given).

Person specification

• Requires good numeric skills, along with visual accuracy and attention to detail.
• Ability to follow instructions accurately.
• Ability to handle and count large volumes of confidential papers.
• Able to work under pressure.
• Flexible approach to duties and working hours.
• Ability to remain politically neutral.

Postal vote opening supervisor job description 

Main purpose of job

To ensure that the postal vote packs returned by electors that have chosen to vote by post are opened, checked and verified in a secure manner. (Votes for candidates are not counted as part of this process).

Working hours

To be available over a number of sessions in the week up to the election. Details to be provided nearer the time. Usually sessions are from 9.30am – 1pm and 2pm to 5pm. This may include weekends and bank holidays. Sessions may be extended or curtailed subject to the requirements of the service.

Main duties

• To oversee the work of the postal vote opening clerks.
• Assist the Duty Returning Officer (DRO) to set up if required.
• Allocate duties to the clerks.
• To keep a record of the number of envelopes received and the number of ballot papers that are to be delivered to the count.
• If required, scan documents into the software and electronically check data (full instructions and training will be given).
• Any other duties as directed by the DRO.

Person specification

• Requires good numeric skills, along with visual accuracy and attention to detail.
• Good communication skills.
• Previous experience as a postal vote clerk.
• Ability to follow instructions accurately.
• Ability to handle and count large volumes of confidential papers.
• Able to work under pressure.
• Flexible approach to duties and working hours.
• Ability to remain politically neutral.

Individuals who are interested in working at future elections should register their interest by completing the online form below: 

Apply for: Election jobs