Census Jobs: Would You Qualify?

GETTING A JOB WITH THE CENSUS BUREAU

In March, 10-question census packets will start showing up on the doorsteps of all homes in Abilene.  Once that data is returned, someone has to count it.

With the 2010 Census count, there are plenty of part-time job opportunities available to be part of the Census Complete Count Committee Program.  Across Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi, the government will hire 75,000 people to work for the Census Bureau.

In the video, reporter Marshall Zelinger has the story on the 28 question test that could land you a new job.

If you're interested in a part-time job with the Census Bureau, you can call 1-866-861-2010.  Once you have scheduled a testing date, you will have to bring a completed application form.

Practice tests are available at www.census.gov.


WHY BE COUNTED?

While most are familiar that the census involves counting people, many don't know what the information collected is used for.

"$300 billion every year in federal funding is allocated based on census data," Melissa Boisvert the complete count coordinator for Census 2010 said.  "Over a ten year period, that's trillions of dollars."

Some of the money is distributed to local communities, for roads, schools,and block grants for community enhancement.

"All you have to do is fill it out and send it back," Boisvert said.

The census data determines the boundaries of state and federal legislatures. It also determines how many US Representatives are allocated to each area.