USPS is hiring for positions including mail carriers, clerks, and mail handlers. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, pass a background check, and complete an online application at usps.com/careers. Hiring peaks during holiday seasons and regional job availability varies by location.
Why Work for USPS?
USPS offers stable federal employment with competitive pay and benefits for over 500,000 workers nationwide. Employees receive full-time hours, career growth, and health coverage, including medical, dental, and vision plans. Jobs are covered by union agreements and offer paid holidays, leave, and retirement plans through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). As a core part of the U.S. government, USPS continues to serve every ZIP Code, making it a key national employer.
- Key benefits:
- Federal retirement and health insurance
- Regular pay increases
- Paid leave and holidays
- Union representation
- Stable full-time employment
Common USPS Job Roles
USPS offers multiple positions in delivery, logistics, customer service, and operations. These jobs range from outdoor roles like mail carriers to indoor roles like sales and sorting staff. USPS also hires for vehicle operation and corporate positions.
USPS Job Role Overview Table
| Position/Area | Description | Starting Pay | Requirements/Notes | Application Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| City Carrier Assistant (CCA) | Delivers/collects mail in cities; works on foot or by vehicle | ~$19.33/hr | Pass background, drug, and medical checks; valid driver’s license if needed | usps.com/careers |
| Rural Carrier Associate (RCA) | Delivers mail in rural areas, often using personal vehicle | $19.33–$20.23/hr | Requires own vehicle in some areas; same background checks as CCA | usps.com/careers |
| PSE Sales & Services Associate | Handles customer transactions at retail branches | Not specified | Standing for long hours; strong communication and customer service skills required | usps.com/careers |
| Motor Vehicle Operator (MVO) | Drives mail trucks; performs light mechanical checks | Not specified | Requires a CDL; must have a clean driving record | usps.com/careers |
| Mail Handler Assistant (MHA) | Sorts and processes large volumes of mail in facilities | Not specified | Physical stamina and ability to work in fast-paced environment | usps.com/careers |
| Corporate/Admin Roles | Finance, HR, IT, logistics, communications, and design roles | Varies | Education or experience required per posting | usps.com/careers |
| Job Fairs (Hawaii Example) | Apply in person or virtually with help from USPS recruiters | $19.33–$20.23/hr | Bring ID and resume; job fairs help answer questions and complete applications onsite | See local USPS newsroom |
USPS Hiring Process
The USPS application process begins by creating an account on the USPS careers page and ends with background clearance. Applicants must complete an online profile, file a job-specific application, and take the required assessments.
Steps to Apply:
- Visit usps.com/careers
- Create an account
- Search and select available positions
- File your application and upload documents
- Complete Postal Exam 474 or other required tests
- Pass background, drug, and medical checks
- Interview and receive job offer
Hiring activity peaks near holidays, so apply early. USPS updates job listings weekly, and candidates can subscribe to alerts to get notified of openings in their region.
Who Can Apply and What’s Required
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and pass screening checks including a criminal background and drug test. A high school diploma or GED is generally required. Some positions may ask for driving licenses or physical ability to carry heavy mail bags.
- USPS Hiring Requirements:
- Minimum age: 18
- Citizenship: U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Background check: All candidates must pass
- Medical and drug screening: Required
- Valid driver’s license: For delivery roles involving driving
If applicants lived outside the U.S. for the last five years, their background check could be incomplete. Exceptions include military dependents, students, or Peace Corps participants.
USPS Pay and Benefits
Starting pay for USPS positions ranges from $19.33/hour to over $20/hour, depending on the role and location. All full-time positions offer federal benefits after a qualifying period.
Benefits include:
- Health insurance: medical, dental, and vision
- Life insurance
- Retirement through FERS
- Paid vacation and sick leave
- Holiday pay (11 federal holidays)
USPS jobs are ideal for those seeking stable income and federal benefits. Carriers and sorters typically receive raises after 6 months to 1 year of service.
How to Improve Your Application
To improve your chances, complete your profile fully, study for the Postal Exam 474, and follow all instructions carefully.
Top application tips:
- Study the exam format using online sample questions
- Follow up through your account dashboard for application status
- Prepare answers for customer service and safety questions in interviews
- Attend job fairs to get help directly from USPS staff
Your USPS application will remain active for 12 months. Keep your profile updated to avoid delays.
Common USPS Hiring Questions
Below you can see common questions were asked about.
Can I apply if I lived outside the U.S. recently?
If you haven’t lived in the U.S. or its territories for 5 years, you may be ineligible—unless you were abroad as a military dependent, student, missionary, or working for a U.S. company.
Are there programs for veterans or graduates?
Yes. USPS offers hiring programs for military veterans and recent graduates, including job-matching and specialized training.
How often are new jobs posted?
USPS updates jobs weekly. Check the USPS careers site often and subscribe to alerts.
Can I apply with a criminal record?
Yes, but all offers are conditional on passing a background check. USPS follows the Fair Chance Act and only checks records after a conditional offer is made.
Our Thoughts
USPS offers steady pay, federal benefits, and a clear path to advancement across multiple positions. To apply, visit the official USPS careers site, create a profile, complete the application, and pass the required screenings. Hiring varies by location and season, so check the site regularly, attend job fairs, and stay updated to improve your chances.
- Start your USPS application today: usps.com/careers
- Jobs include delivery, sales, logistics, and administration
- Pay starts at $19.33/hour with full medical, dental, and vision coverage
- Applicants must be 18+, pass checks, and complete a simple online process
Stay informed, apply early, and follow all instructions carefully to join USPS and serve your community.
