Student Poll Worker Program
Meeting the Need: Partnering with Local Clerks in Michigan's New Election Reality
The CCE is partnering with three local communities – Pontiac, Auburn Hills and Rochester Hills – for this project. These three nearby communities present great needs during the 2026 election cycle given the differences in their communities and the new realities of Election Day in Michigan. All municipalities are now required to have nine days of early voting when there is a statewide election on the ballot; this includes 2026. Local clerks will be stretched for resources. OU students, recruited through this program, will help fill this need.
This is a perfect community engagement project for OU.
Join us on April 9 from 12-1 in Room 128 of the Oakland Center to learn more. We will meet with local clerks to introduce you to what it takes to work the polls. Lunch will be provided. Interested students should fill out this Google form to reserve their spot at the informational session on April 9 from 12-1 in the OC.
- Extra money in your pocket. You could earn several hundred dollars by working the polls.
- An opportunity to give back to your community.
- A deeper understanding of what happens during an election.
- A “behind the scenes” look at Election Day.
- A great resume builder.
- Needed assistance and added capacity during the voting period.
- Potential members of a new crop of poll workers that will be desperately needed in the near future.
- You will need to be trained by the local clerk’s office before working the polls (you’ll also get paid for this session).
- The amount of money you can earn is driven by how many days you work the polls.
- You must be a US Citizen to work the polls.
- Eligibility requirements to serve as an election inspector in Michigan are as follows:
- You must be at least 16 years of age.
- You must be a registered voter in Michigan if 18+ years of age. Individuals aged 16 – 17 must be a Michigan resident.
- You must not have a felony or election crime conviction.
- You must not be an election challenger, a candidate, a member of a candidate's immediate family, or a member of the local board of canvassers.
- You must affiliate with a political party. Party registration is not a requirement. Michigan law requires that election inspectors disclose political affiliation to ensure balanced staffing. Affiliating as “independent” or “unaffiliated” is not a legal option for an election inspector.
- Learn more about becoming a poll worker.
Political Science
Political Science
