The decennial 2020 United States Census will be underway in less than two months and the federal government is looking for Montanans who will hit the streets to secure an accurate count of the state’s population. The U.S. Census Bureau has opened its hiring process for the position of census takers and is currently taking applications, according to its website.

Population counts would begin in March and continue throughout the year until every Montana citizen is tallied.

Census takers start at $17 an hour, earning up to $19.50 an hour (in counties where the count is more difficult) and are paid weekly. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years of age, and will be required to pass a background check. No related experience is necessary. The agency provides flexible hours and hired census takers will undergo a paid training before entering the field.

Census data is used to determine the amount of federal funding a state receives in support of certain programs, including infrastructure and educational programs. The data is also used for redefining districts when needed, both legislative and educational, as well as to apportion seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Montana has the potential to pick up a seat in Congress, depending on the results of the census.

The U.S. Census Bureau is also hiring recruiting assistants, office operations supervisors, clerks and census operations supervisors. Job descriptions can be viewed at census.mt.gov. To apply for a position visit 2020CENSUS.GOV/JOBS or call 1-855-JOB-2020.