What are the responsibilities and job description for the Candidate Filing Specialist position at Charleston County Government?
Are you driven by a passion for democracy and civic engagement? Join the Board of Voter Registration and Elections as a Candidate Filing Specialist and play a critical role in delivering seamless, fair, and accessible elections.
About Us
The Board of Voter Registration and Elections is an award-winning organization dedicated to excellence in electoral processes. Our mission is to daily serve the Charleston County voting constituency with Vigilance, Objectivity, and Transparency in a manner that promotes due diligence Excellence in all aspects of Elections Management.
We are committed to continuous improvement, innovative practices, and exceptional service to our community, ensuring every voter’s voice is heard.
Why Join Us?
- Leaders in Excellence: As an award-winning agency, we set the standard for integrity and voter service.
- Grow With a Mission-Driven Team: We don’t just run elections—we’re committed to improving them. If you thrive in a detail-oriented role where precision, professionalism, and continuous improvement matter, this is the place.
- Be Part of the Bigger Picture: While specializing in candidate filing, you’ll also collaborate with voter registration, absentee voting, and election operations teams—giving you broad exposure to the full election cycle.
OPEN UNTIL FILLED – APPLICATION REVIEW BEGINS IMMEDIATELY
Key Responsibilities
- Candidate Filing & Election Administration:
- Administer the candidate filing process, including accepting filings, verifying eligibility, reviewing documentation, and processing filing fees or petitions.
- Serve as a primary contact for candidates and campaign representatives, providing clear, accurate, and consistent guidance regarding filing requirements, deadlines, and procedures.
- Maintain candidate records in election management systems, ensuring data accuracy and completeness.
- Coordinate with legal, elections, and administrative staff to resolve filing issues or deficiencies.
- Prepare candidate lists, ballot content, and related reports in accordance with statutory deadlines.
- Assist with candidate withdrawals, substitutions, and challenges as permitted by law.
- Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local election laws and regulations.
- Voter Services Support:
- Provide front-line customer service to voters in person, by phone, and electronically, as needed.
- Assist with voter registration, absentee voting, and general voter inquiries during peak periods.
- Support election-related projects across the department, including early voting, Election Day operations, and post-election activities.
- Communication & Outreach:
- Develop and update candidate-facing materials, including instructions, checklists, forms, and website content.
- Participate in workshops, informational sessions, or outreach events for candidates and the public.
- Communicate professionally and neutrally with individuals representing diverse political perspectives.
4. Administrative & Team Support:
- Maintain organized records and documentation in compliance with retention requirements.
- Assist with process improvement efforts related to candidate filing and voter services.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support departmental operations.
- Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration, Political Science, Legal Studies, or a related field.
- Minimum of two (2) years or more of experience in Elections Administration, Government Operations, Compliance, or a Customer Service-focused Administrative role preferred.
- Valid South Carolina driver’s license (or ability to obtain within three months of hire) and ability to meet County motor vehicle policy requirements.
- Certifications::
- State Certification required within 18 months of hire.
Required Skills:
- Technical Proficiency: Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint).
- Attention to Detail: Exceptional accuracy in reviewing legal and administrative documents, verifying eligibility requirements, and ensuring compliance with statutory deadlines.
- Communication: Clear and professional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex filing requirements in a neutral and accessible manner to diverse audiences.
- Organization & Time Management: Strong ability to prioritize multiple assignments, manage competing deadlines, and maintain organized records in a fast-paced environment.
- Customer Service: Commitment to providing courteous, responsive, and politically neutral service to candidates, campaign representatives, and voters.
Preferred Skills:
- Knowledge of election laws and procedures.
- Experience with voter registration systems or election management software.
- Ability to adapt to evolving technologies and electoral practices.
Salary : $40,227 - $52,665