USPS Careers: Find and Apply for Postal Service Jobs

Last updated 3 days ago ago. Our resources are updated regularly but please keep in mind that links, programs, policies, and contact information do change.

The United States Postal Service (USPS) is one of the nation’s largest employers, offering diverse career paths. From mail carriers delivering to homes and businesses to behind-the-scenes operations in processing centers and maintenance facilities, USPS provides stable employment opportunities and a chance to serve communities.

This guide will help you navigate the application process for joining this American institution. With a significant workforce and commitment to building a stable and empowered workforce through its “Delivering for America” plan, USPS offers promising long-term employment prospects.

Exploring Job Types at USPS

A Diverse Range of Roles

The United States Postal Service offers a wide spectrum of job categories beyond just mail carriers. Opportunities exist in areas such as:

• Delivery
• Drivers & Automotive
• Maintenance
• Sales & Service
• Sorting & Handling

USPS also has positions in Accounting & Finance, Information Technology, Corporate Communications, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Legal, and specialized roles like Industrial Engineer, Industrial Psychologist, and Talent Management Specialist. With over 2,000 job functions, individuals with diverse backgrounds and skills can find suitable positions within the Postal Service.

Common USPS Positions

Delivery Roles

City Carrier / City Carrier Assistant (CCA): These employees deliver and collect mail on foot or by vehicle in assigned city areas. They sort, lift, and push mail and packages to prepare for delivery, deliver mail along assigned routes, and pick up mail from customers. This role requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and good communication skills. Work takes place indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions, including weekdays, weekends, and holidays.

Rural Carrier / Rural Carrier Associate (RCA): Similar to city carriers, rural carriers deliver and collect mail along rural routes, often using a vehicle. They provide various services to customers and may use their personal vehicle if a postal vehicle isn’t provided. This position requires a valid driver’s license and safe driving record.

Assistant Rural Carrier (ARC): ARCs primarily deliver and collect packages along designated routes in suburban and rural areas, possibly using their personal vehicle. This is often a weekend and holiday position, with package delivery possible seven days a week.

Driver Positions

Motor Vehicle Operator (MVO): These employees operate mail trucks on scheduled routes to transport mail in bulk. They check mailing addresses to ensure correct delivery and may perform heavy lifting. A valid driver’s license and safe driving history are essential, along with attention to detail and organizational skills.

Tractor Trailer Operator (TTO): TTOs operate heavy-duty tractor-trailers for over-the-road, city shuttle service, or trailer spotting operations in all weather conditions. This position requires a commercial driver’s license (CDL).

Sorting and Handling Positions

Mail Handler Assistant (MHA): MHAs load, unload, and move bulk mail, performing duties related to mail processing. This can be physically demanding, requiring the ability to lift and carry mail and packages.

PSE Mail Processing Clerk: These clerks process mail using automated equipment or manual sorting methods. They sort outgoing and incoming mail, organize support equipment, and may provide services at public windows for non-financial transactions.

Sales & Service Positions

PSE Sales & Services/Distribution Associate: These associates perform sales and customer support services. They greet customers, assist with products and promotions, handle purchases and returns, perform passport duties, and maintain the retail lobby. Excellent customer service and communication skills are essential.

Maintenance Positions

Automotive Mechanic / Technician / Lead: These roles involve troubleshooting, diagnosing, and performing repairs on USPS vehicles. Automotive Technicians handle complex repairs using computerized equipment and may provide technical guidance. Lead Automotive Technicians supervise lower-level technicians and perform the most complex repairs.

Electronic Technician / Maintenance Mechanic / Laborer Custodial: These positions focus on maintaining equipment and facilities. Electronic Technicians diagnose and repair electronic and mechanical systems. Maintenance Mechanics perform tasks on mail processing equipment, building, and industrial equipment. Laborers Custodial clean and maintain postal facilities and grounds.

Understanding USPS Application Requirements

Core Eligibility Criteria

Age Requirements: Applicants must generally be 18 years or older at appointment time. Those 16 with a high school diploma or GED may qualify for certain positions. Postal Inspector positions require applicants to be between 21 and 36 years old.

Citizenship: Applicants must be a United States citizen, a lawful permanent resident alien with a “green card,” or a citizen of American Samoa or other U.S. territory. Preference is given to U.S. citizens.

Language Proficiency: Applicants must possess basic competency in English, which is assessed through various postal exams.

Position-Specific Requirements

Education: A high school diploma or GED is generally required for most roles, with specialized or management positions possibly requiring additional qualifications.

Driving Records: For driving positions, a safe driving record is mandatory. Some roles require at least two years of documented driving experience, with a clean driving history limited traffic violations and no recent DUIs.

Selective Service: Male applicants born after December 31, 1959, must be registered with the Selective Service System.

Employment History: Applicants typically need to detail their employment for the ten-year period before application or since their 16th birthday, whichever is most recent. Any gaps must be explained. Military service counts as prior employment.

Criminal Background Check: USPS conducts criminal conviction history checks on all applicants, who must disclose felony and misdemeanor convictions. The Fair Chance Act prohibits inquiries into criminal history before a conditional employment offer. Employability of individuals with criminal records is evaluated case-by-case.

Drug Screening: Following a conditional job offer, applicants undergo a drug screening, typically a urinalysis. A positive result usually leads to 90 days of ineligibility.

Medical Assessment: A medical assessment after a job offer determines the applicant’s ability to perform essential job functions.

Residency Requirement: Background checks involve a five-year inquiry into locations where applicants have resided, worked, or attended school within the U.S. or its territories.

Applying Online with USPS

Finding the Official USPS Careers Website

The official USPS careers website is at https://about.usps.com/careers. This serves as the central hub for job openings and application information. You can also find a link to the careers section from the main USPS website, www.usps.com. The online application system is called eCareers.

Creating Your Account

1. Go to the official USPS Careers website.
2. Click “Apply now” to start your job search.
3. On the login page, select “Create an account” if you’re a new user.
4. Complete the registration form with your personal information, including name, email, phone number, and desired username/password.
5. Read and agree to the terms and conditions.
6. Check your email for a confirmation message to verify your account.

Keep a record of your username and password, as the system doesn’t allow recovery by Customer Care if forgotten. An email address is required to apply for jobs or create a Candidate Profile, and only one profile can be created per email address.

Searching for Job Openings in Los Angeles, California

1. On the job search page, enter “Los Angeles, CA” in the location field.
2. Optionally enter keywords like “Mail Carrier” or “Clerk” to target specific positions.
3. Click “Search” or “Find Jobs” to see results.
4. Use filters to refine your search by job type, category, schedule, or other criteria.
5. Click on job titles for detailed descriptions, including responsibilities, qualifications, and pay information.

USPS job postings update frequently, so check the website regularly for new opportunities.

Completing and Submitting Your Application

1. Click “Apply Now” on the job details page.
2. Log in to your eCareers account if not already logged in.
3. Follow the “Profile Roadmap” steps to complete your application.
4. Fill out all mandatory fields (marked with an asterisk).
5. Address how your skills, education, training, and experience match each requirement from the job posting.
6. Upload a current resume to provide a comprehensive overview of your work history and skills.
7. Use the STAR format (Situation, Task, Action, Result) when describing accomplishments and experiences.
8. Save your progress at any point to complete the application later if needed.
9. Apply for multiple job openings simultaneously if desired.
10. Navigate to “Send Application” and confirm all required information is complete.

After submitting, you’ll receive a confirmation email from USPS. Track application status by selecting “Job Opportunities” and clicking “Applications.” For specific questions about a job opening, contact the recruiter listed in the posting.

For the best experience, use a desktop or laptop computer with a supported browser such as Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Chrome, or Safari, and ensure you have Adobe PDF Reader installed.

Preparing for USPS Tests

Types of Assessments

Most entry-level positions require passing a Virtual Entry Assessment (VEA). Different versions exist for specific job groups:

• Virtual Entry Assessment – MC (474): For Mail Carrier positions (City Carrier, Rural Carrier, CCA, RCA, ARC)
• Virtual Entry Assessment – MH (475): For Mail Handler roles
• Virtual Entry Assessment – MP (476): For Mail Processing jobs
• Virtual Entry Assessment – CS (477): For Customer Service Clerk positions

Specialized jobs may require additional exams:

• Postal Vehicle Operator / Motor Vehicle Operator / Tractor Trailer Operator (220/230/240): Evaluates driving history with large vehicles
• Automotive Body and Fender Repair and Painting (251): Assesses automotive repair experience
• Postal Police Officer (630): Measures personality, experience, reading, and math skills
• Clerical Abilities (710/720/725/730): Tests clerical skills
• Typing Exam (712/713): Measures typing speed and accuracy
• Data Entry (714 & 715): Tests data entry speed and accuracy
• Computer Skills (718): Evaluates computer software proficiency
• Accounting (741/744): Measures accounting and math skills
• Custodial (916): Assesses custodial skills and practices
• Automotive knowledge (943/944/945): Evaluates automotive maintenance knowledge
• Maintenance (955): Tests mechanical maintenance knowledge

Key Skills and Abilities Evaluated

Virtual Entry Assessments evaluate various skills relevant to specific job groups. Common sections include:

• Work Situations: Job-related scenarios where you choose most and least likely responses
• Tell Us Your Story: Questions about past work history and experience
• Checking for Accuracy: Tests attention to detail by comparing information
• What Motivates You: Explores job preferences and motivations
• Describe Your Approach: Examines work style, teamwork, and management habits
• Work Your Register: Measures basic math and transaction skills (for customer service roles)
• Move the Mail: Evaluates aptitude for accurately sorting packages and letters (for mail carrier roles)

Specialized exams assess knowledge directly related to specific jobs.

Test Preparation Strategies

While USPS states no special preparation is necessary for Virtual Entry Assessments, consider these tips:

• Ensure a stable internet connection and quiet testing location
• Complete the VEA within three days (72 hours) of receiving the email invitation
• Allow 30-75 minutes to complete the VEA
• Aim for at least 70% to pass, with scores of 85% or higher increasing hiring priority
• If you fail, you can typically retake the exam after one year

Be aware of potential scams. USPS never charges for employment information, applications, or exams. Report suspicious websites to the United States Postal Inspection Service.

For examinees with disabilities requiring accommodation, contact [email protected] for assistance. Technical support information will be provided at the beginning of the exam or in your email invitation.

External websites may offer practice tests and study guides, which you can use at your discretion.

For proctored exams at testing centers, you can cancel or reschedule up to 24 hours beforehand through your online testing account. Bring valid government-issued photo ID and login credentials on test day.

Crafting Your Application Package

Tailoring Your Resume for USPS

When creating your resume for a USPS job, use a clean, professional format that’s easy to read. Emphasize specific abilities relevant to postal work, such as experience with postal software, addressing regulations, or sorting procedures.

In your work experience section, list your job title, employment dates, and organization name. Use bullet points to outline responsibilities and achievements, quantifying accomplishments with numbers when possible. For example, instead of “handled mail,” write “sorted and processed an average of 200+ packages daily.”

Highlight customer service experience, ability to work efficiently in fast-paced environments, familiarity with postal equipment or software, commitment to safety protocols, and teamwork skills. Tailor your resume to each specific job description, matching language and keywords to show alignment between your skills and the position requirements.

Skills USPS Values

Your resume should showcase both hard and soft skills that USPS values:

Hard skills for various USPS roles include:

• Package sorting
• Mail delivery
• Knowledge of shipping regulations
• Record keeping
• Operating mail processing machinery
• Data entry
• Route planning and navigation
• Vehicle maintenance
• Proficiency in postal software

Soft skills that are important include:

• Communication
• Customer service
• Time management
• Adaptability
• Problem-solving
• Teamwork
• Organization
• Attention to detail
• Patience
• Empathy
• Work ethic
• Dependability
• Integrity
• Physical stamina

For specific roles, emphasize relevant skills:

• Mail handlers: Mail sorting, data entry, mail distribution, inventory management, forklift operation
• Mail carriers: Customer service, auto delivery experience, ability to lift heavy objects, attention to detail, safe driving record
• Postal clerks: Organization, administrative abilities, interpersonal communication, multitasking, customer service

Writing a Compelling Cover Letter

A strong cover letter makes a good first impression and explains why you’re a great fit for a USPS job. Use a clean, professional format that complements your resume.

Address your letter to the hiring manager by name if possible. If you can’t find a name, use “Dear Hiring Manager.” In your introduction, clearly state the position you’re applying for, highlight relevant qualifications, and express enthusiasm for the opportunity.

In the body paragraphs, provide specific examples of your achievements related to the job requirements, quantifying accomplishments where possible. Consider using the PAR formula (Problem, Action, Result) to structure these examples.

In your conclusion, restate your interest in the position, summarize key qualifications, and express eagerness to interview. End with a professional closing such as “Sincerely” or “Best Regards.”

Proofread carefully for errors, ask someone else to review it, and keep it concise – ideally one page. Ensure your contact information is clearly visible in the header.

Preparing for Your USPS Interview

Common Interview Questions

During your USPS interview, prepare for questions like:

• “Why do you want to work for USPS?” Express admiration for the Postal Service’s role and how your skills would make you a valuable team member.
• “How would you deal with a difficult customer?” Explain that you would listen attentively, apologize for any inconvenience, find a solution, and escalate to a manager if needed.
• “How are your customer service skills?” Describe previous customer interaction roles and skills you developed.
• “How would you react if confronted by a dog?” State that you would remain calm, are comfortable around dogs, but understand potential dangers and would take safety precautions.
• “How would you respond to unsafe work requests?” Explain that you would ask about safety protocols and politely inquire about the task requirements.
• “How would you handle co-worker conflict?” Highlight your listening skills and ability to find common ground.

Position-specific questions might include:

• Postal clerks: “How would you ensure accuracy when processing mail?”
• Maintenance roles: Questions about safety procedures and troubleshooting
• Supervisory roles: Questions about leadership, delegation, and team productivity

Behavioral questions (“Tell me about a time when…”) are common and require specific examples from past experiences.

The STAR Method for Structured Answers

Use the STAR method to structure behavioral question responses:

• Situation: Briefly describe the context
• Task: Explain your goal
• Action: Detail your specific actions
• Result: Describe the outcome and positive results

Prepare examples from past experiences using this structure for comprehensive answers.

Tips for Interview Success

• Research USPS history, mission, and core values
• Review the job description thoroughly
• Prepare to discuss relevant experience
• Practice answering common questions out loud
• Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer
• Dress professionally
• Bring extra resume copies
• Arrive early
• Maintain good posture and project confidence
• Show enthusiasm and engagement
• Emphasize communication skills
• Highlight your commitment to safety for operational roles
• Listen carefully to questions
• Express eagerness to learn and grow within the Postal Service

USPS Employee Benefits

Health and Wellness Insurance

USPS employees access health insurance through the Federal Employees Health Benefits (FEHB) Program. This program offers excellent coverage with the Postal Service paying most premium costs. Employees can choose from numerous plans, including fee-for-service options and Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs). Employee contributions are generally tax-free.

Starting in 2025, a new Postal Service Health Benefits (PSHB) Program will replace FEHB for most postal employees and retirees. The PSHB program will provide benefits tailored to postal workers’ needs with different Medicare Part B enrollment requirements for retirees.

Employees can join the Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP). While employees pay the full cost, group rates are competitive and premium contributions are tax-free.

Career employees with one year of service can participate in Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) for pre-tax funds covering eligible health care and dependent care expenses. Employees can also enroll in the Federal Long-Term Care Insurance Program (FLTCIP) for long-term care costs.

Retirement Plans and Savings

USPS participates in the federal retirement program, providing a defined benefit pension upon retirement and disability coverage. Retirement eligibility depends on age and years of service.

Career postal employees can contribute to the Thrift Savings Plan (TSP), similar to a 401(k). Employees make tax-deferred contributions, and the Postal Service may provide automatic contributions (1% of pay) and matching contributions (up to 5% for career employees).

New postal employees are covered under Social Security and Medicare. Depending on hire date, employees may be under either the Civil Service Retirement System (CSRS) (most pre-1984 hires) or the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS) (post-1984 hires). FERS includes Social Security benefits, while CSRS generally provides a higher monthly annuity without Social Security benefits.

Paid Time Off and Holidays

USPS offers generous paid time off, including annual leave (vacation) and sick leave. Annual leave increases with service length:

• Full-time employees: 13 days annually for first 3 years, 20 days after 3 years, 26 days after 15 years
• Part-time employees: Prorated based on hours worked
• Postal Support Employees (PSEs): Earn annual leave based on hours worked

USPS observes 10 paid holidays annually (PSEs receive 6 paid holidays). Full-time employees typically earn 4 hours of sick leave per pay period. Eligible employees may also qualify for Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) leave.

Career Advancement Opportunities

USPS supports employee professional development with training at every career stage, including job-specific training, technical skills, new supervisor training, and management development programs. The Associate Supervisor Program (ASP) prepares employees for leadership roles.

USPS encourages career advancement across different business areas. City Carrier Assistants (CCAs) may advance to career positions. The National Center for Employee Development (NCED) provides hands-on training for employees working with high-technology postal systems, vehicles, and mail processing equipment.

USPS Onboarding Process

Background Checks and Security Clearance

Candidates with conditional job offers undergo background checks. This standard procedure follows the initial offer, as the Fair Chance Act prevents prior criminal history inquiries. The check typically involves a five-year review of criminal history, employment, and education in all U.S. locations where the applicant has lived, worked, or studied.

Some positions require a more comprehensive National Agency Check with Inquiries (NACI). This may include federal database checks, five-year employment history review, criminal conviction checks, education verification, and references. Applicants complete the Standard Form (SF) 85 questionnaire on a personal computer within a specific timeframe.

Fingerprinting is mandatory during onboarding. Applicants schedule a fingerprinting appointment and bring two forms of valid photo identification.

Honesty in all application and background check information is crucial, as discrepancies can lead to job offer withdrawal. USPS evaluates candidates with criminal convictions individually, considering offense nature and seriousness, time elapsed, and rehabilitation evidence.

Drug Screening Procedures

After receiving a conditional job offer, applicants undergo a pre-employment drug test, typically a urinalysis. This screens for marijuana, cocaine, opiates, amphetamines, and phencyclidine (PCP).

Applicants receive instructions on completing the drug screening within a specific timeframe. A positive result typically causes 90 days of employment ineligibility. Test refusal is treated like a positive result. Disclose current prescription medications to the testing facility. Current USPS employees may face random screenings, post-accident testing, or testing based on reasonable drug use suspicion.

Initial Training and Orientation

After successful background checks and drug screening, new employees participate in training and orientation. This introduces them to USPS policies, procedures, and job responsibilities.

New letter carriers typically complete five phases: orientation, driver training, a shadow day with an experienced carrier, Carrier Academy, and on-the-job training. Initial orientation covers USPS history, employee conduct, safety regulations, employee resources, and career benefits overview.

Career employees receive dedicated benefits orientation to learn about health insurance, the Thrift Savings Plan, life insurance through Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance (FEGLI), and Flexible Spending Accounts. The 60-day enrollment period for some benefits starts on the first career appointment day. Non-career employees like City Carrier Assistants (CCAs) attend initial hiring orientation but receive separate benefits orientation upon career conversion.

The Field Onboarding Program includes two days of classroom orientation plus job-specific training. New hires may receive a welcome kit with items promoting the USPS brand.

Formal job training is required for duty qualification and performance improvement. Examples include new employee orientation and driver training for motor vehicle operators. Craft skills training typically precedes routine-supervised duties.

Taking the Next Step

A career with the United States Postal Service offers diverse opportunities, competitive benefits, and the chance to serve your community. Whether delivering mail and packages, maintaining equipment, or providing customer service, USPS employs people with various skills and ambitions. The comprehensive benefits package includes health insurance, retirement plans, generous paid time off, and career advancement opportunities.

To explore joining the Postal Service, visit the official USPS careers website. Browse current openings, learn about specific roles, and begin your application. Review each position’s eligibility requirements and tailor your application materials to highlight relevant skills and experience.

With proper preparation and understanding of the application process, you can take a significant step toward a fulfilling USPS career.

Our articles make government information more accessible. Please consult a qualified professional for financial, legal, or health advice specific to your circumstances.