Postal Service Mail Sorter

Your Fit

Income

$53K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-11.3%

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

What is a Postal Service Mail Sorter?

A Postal Service Mail Sorter is responsible for sorting and organizing mail for distribution within a postal facility. They play a key role in ensuring that mail is accurately processed and routed to its final destination.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Postal Service Mail Sorter.

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 Postal Service Mail Sorter 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%
$42K per year	$43K per year	$53K per year	$71K per year	$72K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $5.38K above the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Postal Service Mail Sorter do?

Work environment

Mail Sorters typically work in postal sorting facilities or post offices. The environment is fast-paced and can be noisy due to sorting machinery. This role involves standing for long periods and may require lifting heavy mail sacks. Shift work, including nights and weekends, is common due to the continuous nature of mail processing.

Quick task list

Sorts mail by hand or uses automated sorting systems.
Operates mail processing equipment.
Ensures accurate routing and bundling of mail.
Checks for incorrectly addressed or damaged mail.
Maintains records of processed mail.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Automated Sorting: Operating and maintaining automated sorting equipment.
Manual Sorting: Specializing in hand-sorting for smaller or specialty mail items.
Quality Control: Ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of the sorting process.
Bulk Mail Handling: Focusing on sorting and processing large volumes of mail.
International Mail Processing: Specializing in sorting and routing international mail.

Description

Postal Service Mail Sorters are crucial in the efficient functioning of mail delivery services. They must be detail-oriented to accurately sort mail and prevent misdeliveries. The job requires familiarity with postal regulations and procedures, and the ability to quickly adapt to different types of mail and sorting methods.

The occupation involves both physical and mental tasks. Physically, mail sorters handle and organize large volumes of mail, which can be physically demanding. Mentally, they need to stay focused and alert to ensure correct sorting. They also must be able to work effectively as part of a team, as the sorting process is highly collaborative.

Career progression can include supervisory roles or specialized positions within the postal service. This job can be satisfying for those who enjoy active, structured work and take pride in being part of a critical public service. It offers the opportunity to work in a stable industry with potential for long-term employment.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

Contributing to an essential public service that connects communities and businesses.
The satisfaction of managing and completing tangible tasks.
Opportunities for stable employment with potential for career longevity.

You might make a good Postal Service Mail Sorter if you are...

Detail-oriented, ensuring accuracy in sorting and handling mail.
Physically fit and able to stand for extended periods and handle heavy items.
Comfortable working with machinery and technology used in mail processing.
Able to work efficiently both independently and as part of a team.
Adaptable to working various shifts, including nights and weekends.

Pros:

Stable employment with benefits often provided in government or unionized positions.
Physical activity integrated into the workday.
Clear, structured tasks and responsibilities.

Cons:

Physically demanding work, requiring prolonged standing and lifting.
Repetitive nature of the tasks.
Potential for monotonous work environment and noise from machinery.

How to become a Postal Service Mail Sorter

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Additional on-the-job training is provided, focusing on the specific sorting procedures and machinery used.

High school preparation

Courses:

Physical Education to build stamina and physical fitness.
Basic Computer Science for familiarity with automated systems.
Business or Logistics classes to understand the basics of supply chain and distribution.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Team sports to develop teamwork and physical endurance.
Part-time jobs or volunteering in logistics or warehouse settings to gain relevant experience.
Clubs or activities that require organizational skills and attention to detail.

Preparation after high school

Vocational training or certification in logistics, supply chain management, or mail services.
On-the-job training programs offered by postal services or related organizations.
Internships or entry-level positions in mail or package handling facilities.

More resources

United States Postal Service (USPS) Careers - Provides information on careers and training opportunities within the USPS.
National Postal Mail Handlers Union - Offers resources and information for those interested in mail handling careers.
International Mailers' Advisory Group (IMAG) - Offers insights into the mail industry, including international mailing.
O*NET Online - Comprehensive resource for detailed information on various occupations, including Postal Service Mail Sorters.

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