Postal Service Mail Carrier

Your Fit

Income

$58K

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 Mail Carrier?

A Postal Service Mail Carrier is responsible for the delivery and collection of mail to and from homes, businesses, and post offices. They ensure that mail is delivered in a timely and efficient manner, regardless of weather conditions.

Sample job titles:

City Letter Carrier, Letter Carrier, Mail Carrier, Rural Carrier Associate (RCA)

Your test results

Why this fit score?

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

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 Mail Carrier 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%
$42K per year	$46K per year	$58K per year	$75K per year	$77K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $7.99K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Postal Service Mail Carrier do?

Work environment

Mail Carriers primarily work outdoors, navigating various routes by foot, vehicle, or both. The job involves extensive travel in local areas, exposure to outdoor conditions, and significant physical activity, including walking and lifting. Carriers typically work weekdays, but some weekend work may be required, especially around holidays.

Quick task list

Delivers and collects mail along designated routes.
Sorts mail for delivery and organizes it in a logical sequence.
Interacts with the public and answers questions about postal services.
Reports any address changes or issues observed along the route.
Ensures the security and safety of the mail.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Residential Mail Carrier: Specializing in delivering mail to homes in suburban or urban areas.
Rural Mail Carrier: Delivering mail in rural areas, often requiring longer routes and vehicle operation.
Walking Route Carrier: Focusing on routes that are primarily covered on foot.
Motorized Route Carrier: Using vehicles to cover larger or less accessible areas.
Parcel Delivery Specialist: Specializing in the delivery of packages, which may include larger or heavier items.

Description

Mail Carriers are a familiar sight in communities, serving as an essential link between the postal service and the public. Their role requires early starts to sort mail for delivery and extensive time spent outdoors, delivering mail regardless of weather conditions. Carriers must be reliable and efficient, as they are responsible for ensuring that mail reaches its destination promptly and accurately.

Physical fitness is crucial for Mail Carriers, especially those on walking routes. They must be able to handle long periods of walking, lifting, and bending. For those on motorized routes, a valid driver's license and a good driving record are essential. Carriers must also possess good interpersonal skills, as they often interact with the public, answering questions and providing information about postal services.

This occupation offers a stable career with potential benefits, including health insurance and retirement plans. It is suitable for individuals who enjoy working independently, being outdoors, and contributing to the essential functions of everyday life.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Being an integral part of the community, connecting people through the delivery of mail and packages.
Physical activity and the opportunity to work outdoors.
Job stability and potential benefits associated with government employment.

You might make a good Postal Service Mail Carrier if you are...

Physically fit and comfortable working in various weather conditions.
Enjoying working independently and managing your daily tasks.
Reliable and committed to timely and accurate delivery.
Good at navigating and familiar with local areas.
Enjoying interacting with the public and providing helpful service.

Pros:

Stable employment with potential for government benefits.
Regular physical activity and time spent outdoors.
Independence in daily work and route management.

Cons:

Exposure to all weather conditions and physical strain.
The need to start early and manage large volumes of mail.
Limited interaction with colleagues due to the nature of the work.

How to become a Postal Service Mail Carrier

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is generally required. Training is provided by the postal service, including orientation on mail delivery procedures and navigation.

High school preparation

Courses:

Physical Education to maintain fitness.
Geography for navigation skills.
Business Studies for understanding customer service basics.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Participating in sports or outdoor activities to build physical stamina.
Volunteering for community service to interact with diverse groups.
Joining clubs that encourage independence and responsibility.

Preparation after high school

Obtain a driver's license and gain experience in safe driving, if the job involves driving.
Explore part-time work or internships in delivery or customer service roles.
Attend workshops or courses in logistics, navigation, or customer service.

More resources

United States Postal Service (USPS) Careers - Official resource for job openings and information about careers with USPS.
National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC) - Provides resources and support for postal workers.
Postal Employees Network - A comprehensive guide to postal exams, job openings, and career advice.

Similar careers

Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.