Postal Service Clerks
Postal Service Clerks handle multiple tasks at USPS post offices, including receiving mail and parcels, selling stamps and money orders, sorting mail into delivery routes, and checking postage accuracy. They work at post office counters and back-office areas, managing the flow of mail and customer transactions that keep the postal system operating.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against postal service clerks and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical day involves standing at the counter serving customers, weighing packages, calculating postage, and processing money orders. Clerks also spend time sorting incoming mail into pigeon holes and bags organized by delivery route, examining pieces for correct postage, and restocking supplies. Tasks vary between customer-facing work and behind-the-scenes mail processing, with workflow depending on mail volume and time of day.
Who this work suits
Holland code CRE. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You'll do well in this role if you prefer organized, routine work with clear procedures and measurable tasks. People who excel here tend to be detail-oriented, comfortable with repetitive activities, and good at following established systems—traits valued in conventional and realistic work environments.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $59,490 | $67,790 | $75,030 | 110 |
| New Jersey | $57,820 | $64,290 | $75,030 | 2,230 |
| North Carolina | $58,470 | $64,290 | $72,950 | 2,070 |
| California | $57,430 | $63,650 | $75,030 | 6,410 |
| Hawaii | $57,820 | $63,650 | $75,030 | 430 |
| Michigan | $57,820 | $63,650 | $71,930 | 2,340 |
| Louisiana | $56,390 | $63,210 | $75,030 | 1,100 |
| Maryland | $57,430 | $63,210 | $75,030 | 1,240 |
| Tennessee | $56,740 | $63,210 | $71,860 | 1,330 |
| New York | $57,430 | $62,690 | $71,930 | 5,030 |
| Ohio | $56,740 | $62,690 | $69,850 | 2,430 |
| Florida | $56,390 | $62,610 | $71,930 | 3,540 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against postal service clerks and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 43-5051.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.