Volunteer

The elections could not be conducted without the assistance, time, and dedication of hundreds of volunteers statewide!

Every even-numbered year, volunteers are needed for dates in:

  • July through August for the Primary Election
  • October through November for the General Election

Volunteer applications will open for the upcoming elections in March 2026.  

Requirements

  • Must be 16 years old by June 30 of the election year.
  • Commit to the projected shift time.
  • Able to meet the physical expectations by teams.
  • No electronic mobile devices at the counting center.
  • Be aware of the security and integrity of voted material.
  • Should be eligible to register and vote in Hawaii elections.
  • Candidates are not eligible to volunteer at the counting center.

Locations

Volunteers serve at the counting center. There is one (1) established in each County:

  • Hilo, Hawaii
  • Wailuku, Maui
  • Lihue, Kauai
  • Honolulu, Oahu

Counting Center Teams

Audit
The Audit Team confirms the accuracy and integrity of the election results by creating a hand-tally of expected results for a sample of voted ballot to compare to the results tabulated by the vote counting system. Auditors may sit or stand while conducting the audit and should be able to carry up to 15 pounds.

Ballot Opening

The Ballot Opening Team removes the voted ballots from the return envelopes and prepares them for counting.  Volunteers may be seated for most tasks, including removing the secrecy sleeves and unfolding the ballots. However, lifting and standing are required to operate the automatic envelope opener and distribute and move materials between stations. Materials weigh between 15 to 25 pounds. Additionally, the repetitive motions of standing to crouching may be required to secure empty return envelopes.

Duplication
The Duplication Team tracks defective ballots and recreates one-for-one duplicates to count. Volunteers move from standing to sitting to distribute materials and duplicate ballots. They may also be required to handle containers weighing up to 15 pounds.

VBC Processing
The VBC Processing Team controls the counting, tabulation, and security of the voted ballots. The VBC Processing Team lift and move containers and equipment ranging from 15 to 30 pounds. This work area also requires a lot of walking and repetitive motion related to transferring containers to and from the scanner workstations and securing materials.

Official Observers
Official Observers serve as the “eyes and ears” of the public. Official Observers test the voting equipment and monitor the handling and security of ballots at the counting center. Official Observers may be required to stand for long periods of time during shifts exceeding 12 hours. Additionally, Official Observers walk between work areas to monitor the transfer and handling of voted ballots. Official Observers are expected to test the vote counting system; and monitor operations of the counting center for the duration of the assigned shift and ensure coverage within the counting center.

Last Updated on December 10, 2025