Mail Clerk

Your Fit

Income

$37K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-4.7%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Mail Clerk?

A Mail Clerk is responsible for managing, sorting, and distributing mail and packages within an organization. They ensure the timely and accurate delivery of correspondence, both incoming and outgoing, and maintain records related to mail handling.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Mail Clerk.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Mail Clerk earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$28K per year	$32K per year	$37K per year	$43K per year	$50K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $11K below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Mail Clerk do?

Work environment

Mail Clerks typically work in mailrooms of various organizations, including corporate offices, government agencies, and educational institutions. The environment is usually fast-paced, requiring the clerk to stand or walk for long periods, and may involve lifting and moving heavy packages.

Quick task list

Sorts and distributes incoming mail and packages to appropriate departments or individuals.
Prepares and sends outgoing mail and packages, including weighing, stamping, and recording.
Operates mailroom equipment like postage meters, envelope-stuffing machines, and package scanners.
Maintains records of incoming and outgoing mail.
Handles confidential or sensitive documents with discretion.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Corporate Mail Clerk: Managing mail services within a corporate environment, often handling a high volume of correspondence.
Government Mail Clerk: Working in government agencies, handling classified or sensitive mail, and understanding specific postal regulations.
Medical Mail Clerk: Specializing in healthcare settings, dealing with patient records and sensitive medical information.
Legal Mail Clerk: Working in legal firms, handling confidential legal documents and understanding the importance of timely document delivery.
Educational Mail Clerk: Operating in schools or universities, managing mail for faculty and students, and handling academic records.

Description

Mail Clerks are crucial in ensuring the smooth operation of internal and external communication in an organization. They need to be organized and efficient to manage large volumes of mail and packages daily. Accuracy is vital in this role to ensure that all items are correctly sorted and delivered, which can be especially critical in settings where timely communication is essential, such as legal or medical offices.

The role requires familiarity with postal regulations and mailroom equipment. Mail Clerks should also have good interpersonal skills, as they often interact with employees or clients when delivering mail. In larger organizations, they might work as part of a team, while in smaller ones, they may handle a broader range of responsibilities.

Technology is increasingly integrated into this role, with digital mail management systems becoming more common. Adaptability to new technologies and processes is, therefore, beneficial for someone in this occupation. The job can provide a sense of accomplishment through the essential service of connecting people and facilitating organizational communication.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Being a key part of an organization's communication chain.
The physical aspect of the job, which can be more engaging than sedentary work.
Opportunities to interact with various departments and individuals within the organization.
The routine and structured nature of the work.

You might make a good Mail Clerk if you are...

Organized and able to manage tasks efficiently.
Good at following detailed procedures and protocols.
Able to handle physical tasks, like lifting and moving packages.
Comfortable with routine tasks and working in a structured environment.
Interested in playing a supportive role within an organization.

Pros:

Stable and routine work environment.
Opportunities for employment in a wide range of industries.
Physical activity as part of the job can be appealing to those who prefer not to sit at a desk all day.
Minimal educational requirements for entry.

Cons:

The work can be repetitive and may involve standing for long periods.
Limited opportunities for advancement without further education or specialized training.
Handling of heavy packages can be physically demanding.
The rise of digital communication could impact the long-term demand for traditional mail services.

How to become a Mail Clerk

Typical education

This occupation generally requires a high school diploma or equivalent. On-the-job training is commonly provided, and no additional formal education is typically necessary.

High school preparation

Courses:

Business Studies to understand organizational structures and operations.
Physical Education to maintain the physical fitness required for handling packages.
Basic Computer Skills for managing digital mail systems and maintaining records.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining logistical or operational clubs, such as a school post office club.
Volunteering for tasks that involve organization and management, like managing supplies for events.
Participating in sports or physical activities to build stamina and strength.

Preparation after high school

On-the-job training in mail handling, postal regulations, and mailroom equipment.
Short courses or certifications in logistics or office administration for career advancement.
Developing customer service skills through entry-level positions in customer-facing roles.

More resources

United States Postal Service (USPS) - Provides information on postal regulations and services.
National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO) - Offers resources for improving organizational skills.
International Mailers' Advisory Group (IMAG) - Provides updates and information for professionals involved in international mailing.
Lynda.com (now LinkedIn Learning) - Offers courses in organizational skills and office administration.

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