I get the most interesting mail sometimes.

Yesterday a representative of the U.S. Census Bureau wrote to ask if I would publicize its search for census workers.

I am a recruiter with the US Census Bureau, and I am looking to hire members of the Allston and Brighton communities to work with us on the 2010 Census. As you know, working with the Census is a helpful and rewarding service to our community, and it brings jobs to our residents in what has been an economically trying time.

I agree! And also I think the census is a good thing. Except when it means that Texas Republicans get more representation in Congress.

Still, this is democracy at its nuts-and-bolts finest, and so I am happy to post the blurb below. Besides, how many job applications are you reading these days?

2010 Census Jobs: Earn Extra Money, Serve Your Community

Local Census Office Accepting Applicants for Temporary Employment to Support U.S. Census Bureau’s Goal of a Complete Count

While the economy continues to create uncertainty, the U.S. Census Bureau is providing opportunities for individuals to supplement their incomes with flexible, good-paying jobs —hiring hundreds temporary workers in the local area to ensure the 2010 Census is a success.

Census takers, also known as enumerators, are needed to conduct in-person interviews with community residents who do not return census questionnaires. These positions need to be filled by individuals with flexible schedules as work may occur in evenings and on weekends. Some positions may involve shift work. Bilingual workers are needed in many areas.

2010 Census job applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a valid Social Security number, be able to pass a background check, and complete a 30-minute, multiple-choice, employment test that measures knowledge, skills, and abilities required to perform a variety of census jobs. More information, including a practice test, is available at www.2010censusjobs.gov.

In most cases, workers will also be required to possess a valid driver’s license and have use of a vehicle. U.S. citizenship is required to work for the 2010 Census except in rare occasions when no qualified U.S. citizens are available.

All temporary census employees must be able to attend training, for which they will be compensated. Most training sessions are held during the day on weekdays; occasionally, a session may be held in the evening or on the weekend.

For more information on temporary employment with the U.S. Census Bureau, or to schedule an appointment to take an employment test and submit an application, call the toll-free 2010 Census Jobs Line: 1-866-861-2010. TTY Callers: Please use the Federal Relay Service at 1-800-877-8339.