USPS Application & Jobs – Careers, How to Apply, Requirements & Interview Tips
Last Updated: February 16th, 2020 by
Need some help submitting your USPS job application? Well, you’ve come to the right place! In this guide, you’ll find out everything you need to know about USPS jobs and salaries. There are also tips to help you ace your interview!
USPS stands for the United States Postal Service. It’s an independent agency under the United States federal government.
USPS was formed in 1971. However, its roots go as far back as 1775. Its headquarters are in Washington, DC.
At USPS, you can work as a Rural Carrier Associate, a Mail Carrier, a Mail Handler and more!
USPS Application & Jobs
To find the right USPS job and submit an application, you can check out their careers website. This site also tells you about the work culture at USPS. At this company, you can work at many jobs like.
Rural Carrier Associate
As a Rural Carrier Associate, you’ll be working part-time to support regular mail carriers. When regular carriers are not working for whatever reason, you’ll be on-call to help deliver mail. In this role, you’ll work independently and on-the-move. You’ll need to be comfortable working outdoors and on your feet for this job.
Mail Carrier
As a Mail Carrier, you’ll be assigned your own route. On this route, you’ll deliver and pickup mail. You might also collect money for cash-on-delivery and postage-due mail. If people have any questions along the way, you’ll also be the one to answer them.
For this job, you should be comfortable working on your feet. It’s also key that you’re good at interacting with customers.
Mail Handler
In the Mail Handler position, you’ll help to load and unload trucks carrying mail. You’ll sort that mail and ensure that it’s distributed correctly. Along the way, you’ll also cancel stamps and operate machinery used to process mail.
This job can be quite challenging physically. It’s important that you can work fast while having a good eye for detail.
Postal Support Employee
As a Postal Support Employee (PSE), you’ll help make sure the facility is running smoothly. This means performing any ad-hoc tasks that come up. These include lifting, sorting and other activities at the mail facility. This job requires that you’re comfortable with heavy lifting and standing for long periods of time.
Postal Clerk
As a Postal Clerk, you’ll be in a customer-facing role. You’ll help customers with their mail-related tasks. You’ll also perform retail tasks like selling stamps, envelopes and other items used to send mail. A positive personality is important for this job. Multitasking is also a strength, because you’ll be performing tasks while interacting with customers.
Manager Jobs
USPS also has Manager jobs that you could apply for. They’re jobs like Operations Manager and Warehouse Manager.
As an Operations Manager, you’ll oversee the teams that work directly with the mail. You’ll train employees and make sure that all work is done safely. This includes carrying out accident-preventing activities.
As a Warehouse Manager, you’ll be responsible for a warehouse that stores mail being shipped. Keeping that warehouse organized and running smoothly will be your main priority.
Seasonal Jobs
USPS does offer seasonal jobs. These jobs typically cover the busy holiday seasons like Christmas. The availability of seasonal jobs depends on the location you’re in.
These jobs usually include roles like Postal Support Employee, Mail Processing Clerk, Holiday Clerk Assistant, City Carrier Assistant, Transportation Assistant and Casual Mail Handlers.
How Much Does USPS Pay (Hourly & Salary)?
At USPS, you could make at least $12 an hour as a Package Handler, 14% below the national average for similar jobs. Here are a few more examples to give you a better idea of what you could make:
- Rural Carrier Associate ($18 an hour)
- Mail Carrier ($17 an hour)
- Mail Handler ($16 an hour)
- Postal Clerk ($18 an hour)
- Delivery Driver ($15 an hour)
- Operations Manager ($81,000 a year)
- Warehouse Manager ($64,000 a year)
Once you submit an application and get the job you want, you’ll have access to great benefits. These include health, dental vision and even long-term care insurance coverage. Financially, there’s also the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), similar to 401(k) plans in the private sector.
How Old Do You Have To Be To Work At USPS?
You have to be at least 16 years of age to work at USPS. Some roles may require you to be 18 years of age. At 16, you could submit an application for entry-level jobs like:
- City Carrier
- Mail Processing Clerk
- Mail Handler
- Sales, Services, and Distribution Associate
Does USPS Drug Test?
Yes, USPS does perform drug tests on applicants. Typically, this is done by taking a urine sample. It’s not clear whether they collect the sample on-site or at a third-party medical facility.
Whatever the case may be, it’s always safe to assume that a drug test will take place.
Does USPS Do Background Checks?
Yes, USPS does background checks on applicants. Some have said that the check will go as far back as five or more years into your history. According to USPS regulations, having a criminal record does not automatically disqualify a candidate for an open position.
However, having a criminal history may limit the types of jobs that you can apply for. Applicants with criminal records may be limited to entry-level and non-sensitive roles.
Possible USPS Interview Questions & Tips
Why Do You Want To Work For USPS?
A good answer to this question could be that you admire the work that USPS does. You could tell them that you want to be a part of that. Be sure to tell them what strengths you’ll bring to the company!
What Would You Do If Confronted By A Dog?
Any question involving confrontation, with humans or animals, should focus on de-escalation. Try to get away from the situation as best as you can. Then, be sure to notify your Supervisor.
What Would You Do If You Were Asked To Do Something You Thought Was Unsafe?
If you’re given a task that’s dangerous, you can always speak to your Supervisor privately. Be honest with how you feel about it. Then, work together to find a solution that’s good for everyone.
How Would You Deal With A Customer Who Was Upset?
Whenever you’re interacting with customers, remember that you’re a representative of USPS. Remain calm, and listen to what the customer has to say. Then, try to find a workable solution. If you’re unsure, be a team player and ask a colleague or Supervisor for help.
What Would You Do If You Disagreed With A Coworker?
In any kind of disagreement, it’s always important to stay respectful. There is no need for conflicts or arguments. If no solution is obvious, then refer to your Supervisor for guidance.
USPS Hiring Process
Past applicants have found the USPS hiring process to be a positive experience. They’ve found it to be easy. The entire process could take more than a month to complete.
Many applicants were contacted via email. The process usually begins with an interview on-site. There may be a written test involved, where you’re given problem-solving exercises to do.
Always look your best! Put on a smile, and come dressed in a business casual outfit.