Postal Service Clerks
Perform any combination of tasks in a United States Postal Service (USPS) post office, such as receive letters and parcels; sell postage and revenue stamps, postal cards, and stamped envelopes; fill out and sell money orders; place mail in pigeon holes of mail rack or in bags; and examine mail for correct postage. Includes postal service clerks employed by USPS contractors.
SOC: 43-5051.00
Common Job Titles
ClerkPostal ClerkSales and Service Associate (SSA)Window Clerk
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- KnowledgeEvaluate mail items for correct postage and regulatory compliance using postal regulations and rate charts, under time constraints during peak service hours.Proficient
- MindsetEngage diverse customers seeking postal services at service windows, maintaining professionalism while addressing varied inquiries and requests.Developing
- Hands-onOperate barcode scanners, postage meters, and automated mail sorting equipment following established USPS procedures to process high volumes of mail efficiently.Developing
- KnowledgeApply postal rate calculations and money order transaction procedures using point of sale systems while ensuring accurate financial transactions.Developing
- Hands-onHandle letters, parcels, and postal materials sorting into pigeon holes and mail bags while maintaining speed and accuracy standards.Developing
- MindsetRespect customer confidentiality and privacy concerns when processing sensitive mail and personal information in public-facing service areas.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret postal regulations, delivery restrictions, and service options to provide accurate guidance to customers with varied shipping needs.Developing
- KnowledgeMonitor inventory levels of postage stamps, postal cards, and retail supplies using inventory tracking software to maintain adequate stock in post office retail areas.Developing
- MindsetParticipate in conflict resolution with dissatisfied customers applying USPS customer service protocols while balancing policy compliance and customer satisfaction.Developing
- KnowledgeExplain postal service options, pricing structures, and delivery timelines to customers with varying levels of familiarity with USPS services.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Postal Service Clerks (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
78,060
Wage Distribution by Percentile
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $42,600 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $74,050 |
| Workers on average earn | $61,070 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service4.0/5
- English Language3.4/5
- Mathematics3.4/5
- Sales and Marketing3.0/5
- Administrative3.0/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
Microsoft Windows
Technology Skills
Budgeting softwareDelivery operations information system DOISElectronic Time Clock ETCInventory tracking softwareNCR Advanced StorePoint of sale POS softwareTime and Attendance Collection System TACS
Tools & Equipment
Automated mail processing equipmentBarcode scannersBarcode sortersBin stackersDoubles detectorsElectronic mail sorting devicesGeneral purpose mail containersHand stamps