Though primary season and Election Day are months away, Board of Elections offices across New York state are working behind the scenes now to ensure a smooth voting process.

Poll workers check voters in, explain the ballot and help process it through the machine. Because they are in high demand, the state recently put out the call for more.

Karen Baggiano, 67, of Jamestown has always been interested in politics, and recently answered the call as one of the state's newest poll worker based at the Board of Elections in Chautauqua County.  

"Within the last six years, I took a lot for granted with our government and our democracy, and I said it's time for me to get involved, more than just voting," she said.

Baggiano was one of many across the state who signed up during National Poll Worker Recruitment Day back in January.

It’s part of an effort to combat a sharp decline and critical shortage of workers thanks in part to the pandemic, as more than half are over 60.

"We are in dire need of poll workers," said Luz Torres, Chautauqua County Democratic election commissioner.

Torres says poll workers help prepare the sites, sanitize the workspace and check people in. 

While her office currently trains about 400 poll workers a season and could use another 100, they only recruited three.

"[It’s] very frustrating because we would like to meet the voters’ needs,” said Torres. “They're very important and they are the backbone of our elections. And without them, it's very tough.”

Gail Erb, 72, of Mayville, has been a poll worker for seven years, and is spending time reviewing the booklet given as part of the yearly class workers take before an election. 

"It was really exciting the first time I did it because it was the 2016 presidential election, and I had never seen so many people," said Erb.

She says she would also like to see a few more poll workers to help get through the day. 

"I think it would be nice if there were more younger people doing it,” said Erb. “Means a lot to me when a voter comes in and says, ‘thank you for doing this work.’”

Baggiano recently met with Torres, and received her own packet of materials to review at home.

"We need people like her," said Torres.

"Democracy works best when we all participate,” said Baggiano. “I'm actually taking part in helping people cast their vote because everybody's vote counts.”

Karen will likely work on Primary Day in June, should the county have one.

In addition, these are not volunteer jobs. Poll works are paid minimum wage. So, if you're retired, in college or somewhere in between and looking to raise a little extra cash, you're encouraged to sign up.

If you are interested in becoming a poll worker, you can apply here or visit this website.