Election Worker Training and Resource Guide

Overview

I want to thank you for taking the time to serve the voters of Grand Rapids as an Election Worker. You are about to embark on an incredible journey to work on the front lines of democracy. Many Election Workers say that serving on Election Day is the highlight of their year. So, if you are a seasoned veteran or an election rookie, I want to welcome you to the Grand Rapids Election Team.

This guide is for election worker training and full of useful documents and videos to review. Per state law, we train all election workers at least every two years. Please review all the sections. You'll find videos on the equipment in the PowerPoint or in sections of this guide.

When you finish reviewing this guide, take the short quiz linked below. This proves you completed your required election training. We use the quiz as proof of course attendance for payment and certification.

Election Worker Quiz

Get ready for the big day, you civic hero! Your election adventure begins...

Joel H. Hondorp, MMC
Grand Rapids City Clerk

Election Training Video

Election Worker Training Video

Dress Code

Like any job, we have a dress code for our election workers. By following the dress code, you have a positive effect on your precincts image. You're providing your voters with a great experience!

We have a dress code to help guide you in the right direction. We want you to dress professionally and comfortably. Take a look at our tips below or review the full Election Worker Clothing Policy(PDF, 183KB).

Here are some tips on what to wear on election day:

Suits
Slacks, khakis, corduroys, jeans without holes
Skirts
Dresses
Blouses, knit tops
Collared shirts, polos, button-up

Here's a list of what to avoid:

Stained or dirty clothing
Political slogans
Shorts
T-shirts
Revealing clothing
Sweatpants
Fragrance products like perfume and cologne
Hats

Precincts and Locations

Can you believe we have 74 precincts in our City? Precincts can only contain 2,999 active voters until we have to create a new precinct. We locate precincts in locations that work for people with limited mobility. Some of our precincts share locations. It's important to direct voters to their correct precinct location.

Download the Precinct Directory(PDF, 274KB) for locations and addresses of all 74 precincts.

General Election Day Work

Let's get you ready for Election Day! No matter how many elections you've worked, take time to review. It's handy to review the roles activities you'll have to perform.

City of Grand Rapids Instructions

Read this Election Worker Manual(PDF, 18MB) and review the Election Worker Training Power Point Presentation(PDF, 6MB). Reviewing these documents will help you succeed on Election Day! Your team will thank you for it.

**Update to Picture ID due to approval of Proposal 2 of 2022. - Current Local Photo ID is now allowed**

TOPICS INCLUDE:

Opening the polls
Stations and activities during the day
Closing the polls
And more

Voting Stations

Election Training - Sealing Bags

State of Michigan Resources

The State of Michigan also produces election materials to help you. Take a look at these documents:

We know it can be easier to learn when you see a live demonstration. Check out the State of Michigan videos below!

Opening the Polls

Processing Voters

Campaigning

Challenges

Checks and Balances

Duplicating Ballots

Closing the Polls

E-Pollbook

E-pollbook isn't for everyone. This is a specialized election worker duty. Operating the e-pollbook takes confidence in your computer skills and troubleshooting. We use e-pollbook to:

Verify voters on in the right precinct
Track voters you issue a ballot
Document ballot numbers issued
Record any spoiled ballots
Write notes related to issues or situations in the precinct
Report out on election day activities

Online Refresher Course

Please review the E-Pollbook Training Presentation as a refresher prior to Election Day. You can find the E-Pollbook Training Presentation here(PDF, 10MB) and an E-Pollbook Practice Test here.

E-pollbook Instruction Manual

Be prepared for Election Day and review the E-Pollbook Instruction Manual(PDF, 8MB). You'll find step-by-step information on how to:

Process voters
Identify and manage Status Flags
Correct mistakes
Spoil a ballot
And more

You'll also find information on creating the end of night reports. Reviewing this section the night before or in the morning is helpful. After a long election day, they can seem more difficult. Reviewing will help you close your precinct down with success!

ImageCast X Ballot Marking Device (ICX-Voter Assist Terminal)

Any voter can use the ImageCast X (ICX) Ballot Marking Device. The ICX is especially useful for voters with disabilities. The ICX allows voters to select their preferred accessible voting device.

We have a couple of useful documents for you to review how to setup, breakdown, and help voters use the ICX.