Election Inspectors

Election inspectors, i.e. poll workers, are hired, paid, and trained local government workers who assist with running local elections in compliance with Michigan Election Law.

Each county, city, and township in Michigan hires and pays election inspectors for the early voting period and on Election Day.

Election inspectors may be assigned different responsibilities.

At a polling place or early voting site, election inspectors greet and check-in voters, issue ballots, and assist with tabulation. Individuals may also be hired to assist with processing absentee ballots.

If you are interested in becoming a poll worker please contact the clerk's office at elections@plymouthtwp.org or 734-354-3228.

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.

While not a requirement, Michigan election clerks are seeking individuals with the following skills to serve as election inspectors:

  • Organization
  • Management and supervising
  • Customer service
  • Project management
  • Familiarity with technology, such as operation of computers and software.