The 2020 Census is in the near future, and the U.S. Census Bureau is still looking for 500,000 census takers across the country.
Maureen Schriner with the U.S. Census Bureau said the number of census workers and applicants for the 2020 Census is down nationwide as a result of unemployment standing at an all-time low. Despite the unemployment rate, Schriner said the position is perfect for individuals who are underemployed or seeking minimal hours.
“This would be their part-time, temporary job,” said Schriner. “They can work as few as five hours per week.”
Schriner said officials have increased the pay to bring in more workers and stay competitive with other jobs because the 2020 Census is extremely important. Currently, census workers in Union County will receive a minimum of $17.50 per hour.
“These are part-time jobs that are very flexible with hours, so if you’re a college student, retiree or just someone looking for extra pay then it would be a good job for you,” she said.
Schriner said it’s important to employ people from the areas they’ll be counting.
“For individuals who don’t respond online, by phone or by mail, then a census taker then goes out and follows up,” she said. “You want somebody that knows the area and can get to those houses ...”
The U.S. Census, which is completed every 10 years, is a method of accumulating statistical data on the U.S. population. The results of the census determine each state’s congressional representation political, are used for business and marketing research, and help determine the annual distribution distribution of more than $600 billion dollars of federal money.
Census taker eligibility is limited to being a U.S. citizen and passing a background check. To apply to be a census taker interested parties can go to www.2020census.gov.