Summary of Duties

The position of Election Specialist assists in the preparation and operation of County elections by processing voter registration applications and election ballots, maintains voter registration records, selection and training of election extra help staff, and education programs. Receives significant public contact requiring effective communication and service to the customers in person, by email, and telephone.

Specific responsibilities include, but would not be limited to the following:

• Maintains the statewide voter registration database (VoteWA) for Thurston County through the Secretary of State's Office. Maintenance of VoteWA includes management of duplicate registrations within the state, transfer of registration to Thurston County from another county, felony management, deceased management and ID management.
• Processes voter registrations, audits data entry, researches and resolves discrepancies or errors, and issues voter identification cards.
• Maintains oath of office.
• Assists candidates with filing and collects related fees.
• Processes election ballots including receiving, counting, and verifying ballot signatures.
• Compiles data and prepares reports for the Public Disclosure Commission and Election Assistance Commission yearly.
• Assembles and provides voter registration forms and supplies to locations throughout the County.
• Responds to public inquires for information; complies data and generates special election reports for customers; collects related fees.
• Implements changes required by federal and state law within areas of responsibility and documents changes in department policies and procedures.

Working conditions
Although the majority of work is performed in an office environment, this position may be required to transport items to off-site locations and operate County vehicles.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED and college courses in business, office management or public administration. Additional experience may be substituted for education on a year for year basis.
• Three years of office experience, including data entry and interaction with the public.
• Ability to utilize a personal computer and related software packages to perform information processing, analysis, information retrieval and tracking.
• Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's license, or the ability to obtain a license within 30 days of employment, or otherwise meet the travel requirements of the position.
• Election Certification (may be obtained through the Office of the Secretary of State within two years of the date of hire).
• Must type 60 wpm.
• Must be willing to work overtime to assist in the preparation and coordination of elections.

Desired Skills

• Knowledge of the political system, State and County statutes/ordinances, precincts, election laws, and election procedures.
• Ability to grasp new techniques, read, interpret and apply work related rules, regulations, laws and procedures.
• Coordinating and performing a variety of technical and administrative elections functions.
• Ability to work independently and self-motivated to meet required deadlines while simultaneously completing other tasks.
• Ability to be accountable for financial transactions.

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