The Informal Mail Handler is a temporary position within the United States Postal Service (USPS). These employees are responsible for handling and sorting incoming mail that cannot be handled by regular full-time postal workers.
The occasional mail handler usually works at a local post office branch, where they sort packages, letters, magazines, etc. They can also help load or unload trucks with incoming mail deliveries.
usps mail handler casual job duties
Occasional mail handlers have a wide range of responsibilities, which may include:
- unload trucks or trailers of incoming mail and packages, sort them by destination post office, and load them into delivery vehicles.
- handling the acceptance, delivery, and return of bulk mail items such as such as magazines, brochures, and circulars
- load and unload trucks with packages and mail, including lifting heavy boxes or sacks of mail
- perform basic administrative tasks such as filing, sorting letters, and labeling packages
- make sure mail is properly sorted and delivered on time by using scanning equipment to read barcodes and tracking software to control deliveries
- collect, sort and distribute mail within a locale
- scan incoming mail for viruses or other security threats using machines such as optical scanners or x-ray machines
- perform basic customer service tasks customer, how to accept packages from customers or answer questions about mail services
- maintain accurate inventory of incoming and outgoing mail and packages
salary & perspective
Casual USPS mail handlers are generally paid an hourly wage, which can vary based on their experience level, company size, and geographic location.
- median annual salary: $31,500 ($15.14/hour)
- top 10% annual salary: $85,000 ( $40.87/hour)
USPS employment of casual mail handlers is expected to decline over the next decade.
The number of mail handlers will be limited by the amount of space available in the postal facility. As mail volume continues to increase, the postal service will need more space for sorting operations. however, space is limited and expensive, so the postal service may not be able to expand its facilities as much as it needs.
usps casual mail handler job requirements
qualifications to become a casual mail handler with the usps include:
Education: The only requirement for a casual courier position is a high school diploma or ged. however, if you want to further your career in the postal service, you can earn a two-year associate’s degree in postal service technology. This degree will provide you with the skills and knowledge to work in a variety of positions within the postal service.
training & Experience: Most new casual mail handlers will receive on-the-job training from their supervisors or managers. This training will teach the casual mail handler how to complete their daily tasks and responsibilities. training may also cover security procedures and any special equipment that the occasional mail handler will need to use.
certifications & Licensing: UPS Occasional Mail Handlers are not eligible for retirement benefits through USPS. however, they may be eligible to receive benefits through an alternative plan offered by their state government. Some states allow employees to combine their retirement plan with another employer’s plan.
usps casual mail handling skills
USPS Occasional Mail Handlers need the following skills to be successful:
Attention to Detail: Attention to detail is another important skill for mail handlers to have, as it enables them to perform their tasks accurately. this skill can help them sort and deliver mail to the correct addresses and ensure they don’t damage any of the mail. It can also help them identify any problems with the mail, such as whether a letter is properly sealed or a package is too heavy to deliver.
physical endurance: physical endurance refers to the ability to sustain prolonged periods of physical activity. As an occasional mail handler, you may be required to lift and carry heavy packages and mail. Having good physical stamina can help you perform your job duties effectively and safely.
Communication skills: Postmasters work as a team, so it’s important that they be able to communicate effectively with their co-workers. they often need to communicate verbally to convey information to clients and supervisors, and they also need to be able to read and interpret written communication from their supervisors.
flexibility: flexibility is the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Mail handlers often work rotating shifts, so flexibility can help them adjust to different schedules and responsibilities. Being flexible can also help them adjust to changes in the workplace, such as new management or changes in technology.
Teamwork: Postmasters work in teams to sort and deliver mail. They may also work with other employees to complete other tasks, such as loading and unloading trucks. Being able to work well with others is an important skill for occasional USPS mail handlers.
usps postmaster informal work environment
Casual mail handlers typically work indoors, in a climate-controlled environment. the job is moderately strenuous and may require prolonged standing, walking, and stretching. Occasional mail handlers must be able to lift and carry sacks of mail that can weigh up to 70 pounds.
usps informal mail handler trends
Here are three trends influencing how informal postmasters work. Casual mail handlers will need to stay current on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive edge in the workplace.
the growth of electronic commerce
The growth of e-commerce is a trend that is having a major impact on the shipping industry. As more and more people shop online, the demand for postal services will continue to grow.
This means that casual mail handlers can expect to see an increase in the number of packages they have to handle. to keep up with this trend, they will need to be able to quickly and efficiently sort packages based on their destination.
more automation
As automation becomes more common in the workplace, email administrators will need to learn new skills to stay competitive.
One area where automation is already having an impact is in the sorting process. With the help of machines, mailers can now focus on other tasks, such as packing or customer service. this allows them to be more efficient and productive while providing a better experience for customers.
a greater focus on customer service
The postal service has always focused on customer service, but in recent years this has become even more important. customers are looking for a fast and easy way to send and receive packages, and the postal service is well positioned to meet this demand.
Casual mailers can take advantage of this trend and become customer service experts. They can do this by learning how to deal with difficult customers, understanding what customers want, and being able to provide excellent customer service.
how to become a usps casual mail handler
The United States Postal Service (USPS) offers a variety of career paths for people who want to work in the mail industry. One option is to become a casual mail handler, which is a great way to get your foot in the door and learn about the postal service. as an occasional mail handler, you would be assigned a route and would have to complete all the tasks associated with delivering mail on that route. this could include loading mail onto trucks, sorting mail, and delivering mail to customers.
To become an occasional mail handler, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. You must also pass a drug test and physical exam. in addition, you must be able to lift up to 50 pounds.