Overview of United States Postal Service Jobs
USPS jobs are available across the country in almost every city and town. These roles support the daily operations of delivering mail, handling customer service, and managing transportation networks.
Types of Job Roles Available
USPS generally hires for the following categories:
- City Carrier Assistants (CCA) – deliver mail in cities
- Rural Carrier Associates (RCA) – deliver mail in rural areas
- Mail Handlers & Processors – sort and process mail
- Postal Clerks – assist customers at counters
- Mail Truck Drivers – operate official postal vehicles
- Custodians & Maintenance Workers – maintain postal buildings
- Administrative & Office Support – HR, finance, customer service
- Supervisors & Management Roles – oversee operations
Jobs are available for both beginners and experienced professionals.
Who USPS Jobs Are Suitable For
USPS jobs are especially suitable for:
- People seeking stable government employment
- Those who enjoy active, outdoor work (carrier roles)
- Individuals who like customer-facing jobs
- Applicants ready to work in fast-paced environments
- People looking for long-term careers with promotion opportunities
Basic Hiring Requirements
Most job roles require:
- U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
- Ability to pass background checks
- Physical fitness (for delivery and sorting roles)
- A valid driver’s license (for driving jobs)
- Good communication skills
- Willingness to work weekends or holidays
Salary Expectation for United States Postal Service Jobs
USPS offers competitive salaries along with federal employment benefits, which is why many people consider postal jobs secure and rewarding.
Average Salary Range
Below is a general salary range (may vary by region and position):
| USPS Position | Average Salary (USD/Year) |
| City Carrier Assistant | $35,000–$50,000 |
| Rural Carrier Associate | $40,000–$55,000 |
| Mail Processor / Handler | $35,000–$48,000 |
| Postal Clerk | $38,000–$52,000 |
| Truck Driver | $45,000–$65,000 |
| Maintenance / Custodian | $35,000–$50,000 |
| Full-Time Mail Carrier (after conversion) | $55,000–$75,000 |
Benefits USPS Employees Often Receive
- Health insurance
- Retirement plans
- Paid holidays
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- Job security
- Overtime opportunities
- Federal employment protections
Growth Opportunities
Employees can move from temporary roles like CCA or RCA into full-time career positions. USPS also offers long-term growth into:
- Supervisor roles
- Postmaster positions
- Operation manager roles
Country-Specific Notes
These jobs are primarily for applicants living in the United States, since work eligibility and background verification require U.S. documentation.
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Requirements to Apply for a United States Postal Service Job
Before applying, you must meet certain requirements based on USPS hiring standards. Here are the most important ones:
Minimum Education
- High school diploma or GED
- Higher education is not required for most entry-level roles
Experience Needed
- Entry-level roles do not require prior experience
- Mail carriers benefit from delivery or customer service experience
- Technical roles (maintenance, drivers) require certifications or licenses
Age Requirements
- Must be 18 years or older
- Age 16 is allowed with a high school diploma
Documents Required
You will need to prepare:
- A valid government-issued ID
- Social Security Number
- Resume
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent residency
- Driving license (if applying for carrier or driver jobs)
- Background check documents
Skills Needed
- Good physical stamina
- Ability to lift packages (varies by role)
- Clear communication skills
- Strong attention to detail
- Customer service mindset
- Basic computer skills
Visa or Work Eligibility (for International Applicants)
USPS does not hire foreign workers on visas. You must be:
- A U.S. citizen, or
- A legal permanent resident (Green Card holder)
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for United States Postal Service Jobs
Here is the complete process explained in simple steps.
Step 1: Find Official USPS Job Openings
All jobs are listed on the official USPS careers website. You can browse by:
- Location
- Job category
- Salary range
- Career type (full-time, part-time, temporary)
Never apply through third-party sites that request money.
Step 2: Create a USPS Applicant Profile
To apply, you must:
- Create an online USPS account
- Enter your personal details
- Upload documents like your resume
This account will help you track your application status.
Step 3: Upload Your Resume
When uploading your resume:
- Keep it clean and one page
- Highlight customer service or delivery experience
- Include important keywords like “mail handling,” “customer service,” or “delivery operations”
Step 4: Complete the Online Application
The application form will ask for:
- Work history
- Availability
- Driving credentials (if required)
- Background information
Double-check everything before submitting.
Step 5: Take the USPS Virtual Entry Assessment
Most jobs require completing an online assessment. These tests include:
- Situational judgment questions
- Personality questions
- Customer service scenarios
- Basic problem-solving
Passing this exam is crucial.
Step 6: Attend In-Person Fingerprinting & Background Check
If you pass the assessment:
- USPS will schedule fingerprinting
- A background check will be completed
- Driving records may be reviewed (for carriers)
Step 7: Receive a Conditional Job Offer
Once approved, USPS sends:
- A job offer
- Job details
- Pay structure
- Training schedule
Step 8: Attend Orientation & Start Working
After completing all steps:
- Attend USPS orientation
- Undergo training based on your job role
- Begin your postal career
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting Hired
USPS receives thousands of applications every week. These tips will help you stand out.
1. Prepare a Strong Resume
Include:
- Customer service experience
- Delivery experience
- Physical labor roles
- Communication skills
- Certifications (if any)
2. Practice for the USPS Assessment Test
This exam determines whether you move forward. Practice:
- Situational questions
- How you respond to customers
- Problem-solving tasks
3. Keep Your Application Information Accurate
Incorrect details may delay your background check or cause rejection.
4. Highlight Flexibility
USPS often needs people who can:
- Work weekends
- Work holidays
- Handle overtime
5. Improve Physical Fitness
Roles like mail carriers require:
- Walking long distances
- Lifting packages
- Working in different weather conditions
6. Avoid Common Mistakes
- Do not apply for too many positions at once
- Do not skip sections of the application form
- Do not use an unprofessional email address
- Do not ignore exam preparation
FAQs About United States Postal Service Job Applications
1. How long does the USPS hiring process take?
Typically 2–6 weeks, depending on the background check.
2. Do I need experience to apply?
Most entry-level roles do not require prior experience.
3. Is the USPS entry assessment difficult?
It’s not difficult, but you should practice to score well.
4. Do USPS jobs require driving?
Only carrier and driver positions require a valid driving license.
5. Are USPS jobs full-time?
You can apply for full-time, part-time, or temporary roles.
6. Do I need a resume for USPS jobs?
Yes, a resume is required for almost all positions.
7. Can non-U.S. citizens apply?
No. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
8. Are USPS jobs good for long-term careers?
Yes. USPS offers strong job security, benefits, and promotion opportunities.
Conclusion
Applying for USPS jobs is a straightforward process once you understand the steps, requirements, and the assessment involved. By following this complete guide and learning how to apply for United States Postal Service jobs, you can prepare a strong application and increase your chances of getting hired. With stable pay, government benefits, and clear career growth, USPS remains one of the most trusted employers in the country.
