Early Voting Chief Judge(EVCHF) works under the direction and supervision of the Center Manager and is responsible for supervising the other Election Judges,, maintaining the order and operation of the Early Voting Center, completing most of the required forms and reports, and handling voter concerns. Each early voting center is staffed with two Early Voting Chiefs Judges of a different party affiliation each day of Early Voting. They may fill in as a substitute for any Election Judge at any voting station. It is recommended that Chief Judges are experienced Election Judges and successful candidates should exhibit the following: patience and flexibility, strong communication and organizational skills, attention to detail, sensitivity to the needs of voters and good people skills.

Responsibilities: 

In conjunction with a Co-Chief Judge:

  • Coordinate and supervise the operation of the Early Voting Center in accordance with Maryland Election Law amd election procedures.
  • Oversee the operation of an early voting center including daily opening and closing activitie
  • Coordinate and supervise the mandatory early voting center set-up meeting at the early voting site the evening prior to the first day of early voting. Standard meeting time is 6:30 pm, but may be adjusted if necessary
  • Promptly communicate any questions, concerns or supply needs to the Board of Election staff and thoroughly document any issues or concerns
  • Make task assignments, arrange breaks and rotate Election Judges as needed
  • Ensure a calm, pleasant voting experience for voters while making certain all procedures are followed, and the integrity of the election is preserved>
  • Complete, review and certify daily reports and documentation
  • Make sure all ballots, voting equipment, passwords and keys remain secure
  • Coordinate closing activities, ensure all critical items are accounted for and the Early Voting Center is closed in timely manner
Requirements:
  • Minimum age - 18 years
  • Completed training for the current election
  • Prior service as an Election Judge, preferably as Chief Judge
  • Willing to serve where assigned regardless of the distance from home
  • Able to speak clearly, listen well and to be friendly and welcoming
  • Able to sit and/or stand for extended periods of time
  • Able to follow procedures; written and verbal instructions
Service Hours and Service Stipend (payment)
  • This is a full-day position.
  • Pre-Election Set-Up Hours: 6:30pm to completion of set-up (approximately 9:30 pm)
  • Early Voting Hours: 6:00 am – to closing (approximately  9/10:00 pm
  • Early Voting Payment: $320.00 (daily)  Training Payment: $70.00 (unless already trained).
  • Note: Election Workers who served as Election Judges (poll workers) in the 2024 election cycle will receive a returning service bonus for Election Judge service during the 2026 election cycle. Election Judges will receive a $100.00 bonus for each full day served on Election Day or during Early Voting or a $50.00 bonus for each part day served on Election Day or during Early Voting.