The Census Bureau produces an important set of demographics data about the United States every ten years.  The 2010 Census is coming up soon and the Bureau is hiring thousands of temporary workers to help with data gathering.  The recruitment starts now.

The Bureau has set up a great website detailing the recruitment effort for Census enumerators.  The Census enumerators are meant to go out into their communities and confirm the addresses of almost everyone.  The pay is quite good and varies by the geographic location.  Here in the San Francisco Bay Area the pay starts at $22.00 an hour.

This is a good temporary opportunity for those who want to make some extra money and learn something about their own neighborhoods.  The enumerators must be at least 18, score well on a written exam given by the Census Bureau, and submit to an FBI background check.  Additionally, a valid Social Security number is required and the enumerator must have transportation to do the work.  The Bureau is also looking for people who can speak multiple languages because the United States has become very multilingual.

Considering that the economy is in the pits right now, the 2010 Census seems well timed to provide a mini stimulus in many communities.