Why Choose a USPS Career?
The US Postal Service offers over 600,000 career and temporary positions with:
- Federal employee benefits (healthcare, pension, and TSP retirement)
- Strong union representation (NALC, APWU, NRLCA)
- Career advancement opportunities (80% of management promoted from within)
- Job stability (government-backed employment)
- No college degree required for most positions
Current USPS Career Paths
1. Delivery Careers
City Carrier (CCA → Career)
- Starting wage: $19.33/hour
- Path to $70,000+ as regular carrier
- Benefits after 90 days probation
Rural Carrier (RCA → Career)
- $19.94/hour average
- Use personal vehicle (mileage reimbursement)
- Faster conversion to career status
2. Processing & Plant Careers
Mail Processing Clerk
- $20.05/hour starting
- Overnight shifts available
- Union protection (APWU)
Mail Handler Assistant
- $18.69/hour starting
- Physical warehouse work
- Path to $60,000+ career positions
3. Specialized Careers
Maintenance & Mechanic
- $25-$35/hour
- Electrical/mechanical skills
- Government pension eligible
Tractor-Trailer Operator
- CDL-A required
- $28.36/hour average
- Nationwide openings
4. Corporate & Professional
- IT ($75,000-$120,000)
- HR ($65,000-$95,000)
- Accounting ($70,000-$110,000)
- Engineering ($80,000-$130,000)
2025 Hiring Process
Step-by-Step Application
- Search Openings at USPS Careers
- Create Profile (45-60 minute process)
- Take Exam (474 for carriers, 710 for clerks)
- Pass Background Check (7-10 days)
- Complete Training (2-4 weeks paid)
What’s New in 2024
- Faster hiring (some locations in 2 weeks)
- $5,000 signing bonuses in high-need areas
- More career conversions from seasonal roles
- Increased starting wages (up 6% from 2023)
USPS Career Progression
Typical Promotion Path:
- Entry-Level (CCA/RCA/Mail Handler)
- Career Employee (After 1-2 years)
- 204B Supervisor (First management role)
- Postmaster/EAS ($75,000-$100,000+)
Fast-Track Options:
- Maintenance Mechanic (Promote in 6 months)
- Corporate Pathways (Degree-accelerated programs)
- Military Veterans Preference (Expedited hiring)
Employee Benefits Breakdown
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Health Insurance | Multiple BCBS plans available |
| Retirement | FERS pension + TSP (401k-style) |
| Vacation | 13-26 days/year (increases with tenure) |
| Sick Leave | 13 days/year (unlimited accumulation) |
| Union Protection | Grievance procedures, contract negotiations |
How to Get Hired Faster
- Apply to multiple locations (increase chances)
- Prepare for exams (free practice tests online)
- Follow up with local postmaster
- Consider seasonal work (leads to permanent roles)
- Use veterans preference if eligible
Next Major Hiring Wave: September 2025 (Holiday Season Prep)
Need help finding USPS careers in your area?
Reply with your city/state for specific job search assistance!