Postal Service Mail Sorters, Processors, and Processing Machine Operators
Prepare incoming and outgoing mail for distribution for the United States Postal Service (USPS). Examine, sort, and route mail. Load, operate, and occasionally adjust and repair mail processing, sorting, and canceling machinery. Keep records of shipments, pouches, and sacks, and perform other duties related to mail handling within the postal service. Includes postal service mail sorters and processors employed by USPS contractors.
SOC: 43-5053.00
Common Job Titles
Automation Clerk
Distribution Clerk
Mail Handler
Mail Processor
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generated
Key competencies for this occupation at a glance
Hands-onPerform high-volume mail handling and sorting operations using manual and automated sorting equipment in a fast-paced postal facility.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate mail processing machinery including barcode sorters, optical character readers, and conveyor systems while monitoring equipment performance and maintaining processing standards.
Developing
KnowledgeClassify incoming and outgoing mail by destination, type, and delivery route following USPS regulations and sorting protocols.
Developing
KnowledgeApply postal addressing standards and routing procedures to ensure accurate mail distribution across local and national networks.
Developing
Hands-onManipulate mail scales, packaging machines, and canceling equipment to prepare shipments and process outgoing mail according to weight and size specifications.
Developing
KnowledgeIdentify equipment malfunctions and operational irregularities in mail processing systems during routine operations monitoring and quality checks.
Developing
MindsetEngage with supervisors and team members to coordinate workflow and resolve processing issues in a collaborative postal service environment.
Developing
KnowledgeExplain USPS sorting procedures and mail handling protocols when training new employees or providing guidance to team members.
Developing
KnowledgeDemonstrate use of postal information systems and barcode scanning technology for tracking shipments, recording processing data, and managing inventory.
Developing
Hands-onExecute minor adjustments and troubleshooting procedures on mail processing equipment to maintain operational efficiency and minimize downtime.
Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Postal Service Mail Sorters, Processors, and Processing Machine Operators (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
111,930
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $42,600. 25th percentile: U.S. $47,380. 50th percentile: U.S. $56,530. 75th percentile: U.S. $72,970. 90th percentile: U.S. $74,050. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
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
$58,310
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
English Language3.0/5
Production and Processing2.5/5
Customer and Personal Service2.4/5
Administrative2.3/5
Administration and Management2.2/5
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
