The city of DeKalb is asking NIU students to help it conduct a new census and figure just how much the city is growing.

“Special Census workers,” as they are referred to, will poll off-campus housing and new construction areas to find out the exact population growth and help DeKalb potentially gain more funding due to larger population size.

An open house for those interested will take place from 10:30 a.m to 3:30 p.m. Thursday at the Holmes Student Center lobby near the bus turnaround. The open house will provide students with information regarding these job opportunities, which boast part-time hours, 20 hours per week and an average salary of $9.75 an hour.

Two types of positions are available: enumerators and clerical workers. Enumerators will conduct the actual door-to-door surveys and collections. This role requires a minimum of 18 years of age, a valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle. The enumerator is considered the “Special Census Worker” because they are only polling a certain area of the town.

Clerical workers will be doing office work, answering phone calls and processing forms. This position requires a minimum of 18 years of age but does not require a driver’s license or vehicle.