Postal Service Clerk

Your Fit

Income

$62K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-6.7%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Postal Service Clerk?

A Postal Service Clerk provides customer service at post offices, handling mail processing, distribution, and a variety of postal transactions. They play a key role in the functioning of postal services, ensuring efficient and accurate handling of mail and packages.

Sample job titles:

Clerk, Postal Clerk, Sales and Service Associate (SSA), Window Clerk

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Postal Service Clerk.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Postal Service Clerk earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) in 2024 was...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$43K per year	$55K per year	$62K per year	$74K per year	$74K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $12K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Postal Service Clerk do?

Work environment

Postal Service Clerks typically work in post offices, which are indoor, structured environments. Their work includes interacting with the public, handling postal products and services, and operating mail-processing equipment. The job often requires standing for extended periods and may involve lifting and sorting mail items.

Quick task list

Sells postage, postal products, and processes money orders.
Sorts and distributes incoming and outgoing mail and packages.
Provides information on postal regulations and services.
Handles customer inquiries and resolves postal service issues.
Maintains accurate records of postal transactions.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Mail Processing Clerk: Specializing in sorting and managing incoming and outgoing mail.
Retail Postal Clerk: Focusing on customer service and the sale of postal products.
Bulk Mail Clerk: Handling large volumes of mail for businesses and bulk senders.
Postal Financial Services Clerk: Specializing in postal banking and money order transactions.
International Mail Clerk: Focusing on the processing and regulation of international mail.

Description

Postal Service Clerks are essential in facilitating the daily operations of post offices. They ensure that the public receives efficient service, whether it's mailing packages, purchasing postage, or receiving mail. Clerks must be knowledgeable about postal regulations, services, and products to provide accurate information and assistance to customers.

The role demands strong organizational skills, as clerks are responsible for accurately sorting a high volume of mail and maintaining transaction records. They must also possess excellent customer service skills, as they frequently interact with a diverse clientele. Additionally, clerks need to stay updated on changes in postal regulations and services.

Working as a Postal Service Clerk offers a stable career in a government-regulated environment. It is well-suited for individuals who enjoy structured tasks, customer interaction, and playing a part in a vital community service. Opportunities for career advancement can include supervisory and managerial roles within the postal service.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Being part of a critical community service that connects people and businesses.
Stable employment with structured work routines.
Opportunities to interact with and assist a diverse range of customers.

You might make a good Postal Service Clerk if you are...

Detail-oriented, ensuring accuracy in handling mail and transactions.
A strong communicator, capable of providing clear and helpful customer service.
Organized, able to efficiently manage and sort large volumes of mail.
Interested in working in a community-oriented service environment.
Able to work both independently and as part of a team, handling various tasks throughout the day.

Pros:

Stable employment with potential for benefits and pension plans.
Regular work hours and a structured environment.
Interaction with the public, providing essential services.

Cons:

The job can be physically demanding, involving standing for long periods and handling heavy mail items.
Repetitive tasks and strict adherence to procedures.
Limited opportunities for significant career advancement without additional qualifications.

How to become a Postal Service Clerk

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Additional on-the-job training is provided, covering postal operations, customer service, and mail handling procedures.

High school preparation

Courses:

Business Studies to understand basic customer service and transaction management.
Mathematics for handling financial transactions and accounting.
Computer Science to develop proficiency in using postal software and systems.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in customer service or retail-oriented clubs or part-time jobs.
Volunteering in community service roles that involve organization and public interaction.
Engaging in school activities that require teamwork and communication skills.

Preparation after high school

Gain experience in customer service or retail roles to develop relevant skills.
Pursue vocational training or certifications in postal services or logistics, if available.
Attend workshops or courses focusing on postal regulations, customer service excellence, and mail handling safety.

More resources

United States Postal Service (USPS) Careers - Official site for career opportunities and information about working with USPS.
National Postal Mail Handlers Union - Provides resources and support for postal workers.
Postal Employees Network - A resource offering information on postal exams, job openings, and career advice.
American Postal Workers Union (APWU) - Offers information on rights, benefits, and resources for postal service employees.

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