• Job Title: Count Assistant 
• Job Type: Administrative

Description of duties

The purpose of the Verification and Count Teams is to open ballot boxes, ensure the contents agree with the ballot paper accounts, and then count the votes for each candidate in the election.

The role of the Verification and Count Assistant is not difficult, but duties are undertaken in a pressurised environment and the greatest care must be taken to ensure that mistakes are not made.

They must:

• Attend the briefing session before the commencement of the count. (This is undertaken at the venue, prior to the start of the count)
• Have read and agreed to the terms of the Statement of Secrecy.
• Act impartially at all times and respect confidentiality of material handled.
• Refrain from engaging in conversations with candidates, agents, councillors or guests.

Duties

Verification and Count Assistants will work in teams of varying sizes as designated by the Returning Officer.

The verification and subsequent count(s) are two processes; depending on the size and nature of the election, they can occur over several days. As directed by the Supervisor, Verification and Count Assistants will:

• Verify and Count the number of ballot papers in the ballot boxes.
• Conduct all counts and recounts in accordance with the counting method you will be instructed to use.
• Alert the Count Supervisor to any doubtful ballot papers.
• Divide ballot papers into votes for individual candidates and count them using the method designated by the Returning Officer.

Normally, the initial verification will commence immediately after the polls are closed at 10pm and the ballot boxes are received at the count centre. Therefore, the initial verification/count will commence late into the evening and potentially will not finish until the early hours of the following morning. Subsequent counts may take place during normal working hours or over weekends.

You may be required to perform additional duties not listed above which are appropriate and commensurate to your role and experience, ensuring the smooth running of the election process.

The Returning Officer is not permitted to employ anyone who is/or has carried out duties on behalf of any political party or candidate at the election, including the signing of nomination papers and display of candidates notices at their property.

All staff will be required to sign their agreement to maintain the secrecy of the poll.

The use of any electronic device within the count hall is strictly prohibited. Mobile phones, tablets, e-readers etc should be placed securely into a bag or in a pocket on your person. Please be mindful of social media commentary and the agreements regarding maintaining the secrecy of the ballot.

Person Specification

Knowledge

No previous experience required. However, previous experience of working at electoral counts would be considered an advantage.

Skills and abilities 

• Good communication skills and ability to follow strict instructions.
• Basic numeracy and literacy skills.
• The ability to work quickly, with accuracy and with attention to detail.
• Ability to follow instructions.
• Punctual and reliable with a flexible attitude.
• Can work calmly under pressure.
• Be able to work as part of a team.
• Ability to work flexibly, including unsociable hours.

Other essentials

• Ability to remain politically neutral.
• You must not have been convicted of an offence under Electoral Legislation.
• Acceptance and adherence to the terms of the Statement of Secrecy.
• Accept and sign the appointment letter that contains the Acceptance of Waiving of Working Time Directive for the period of this employment.