Postal Service Mail Carriers
Postal Service mail carriers sort and deliver mail along established routes for the United States Postal Service. They work for USPS directly or through contracted agencies, delivering mail by foot or vehicle to homes and businesses. Most carriers complete their routes daily, handling incoming and outgoing correspondence.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against postal service mail carriers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves arriving at a postal facility to sort mail by delivery route, then traveling the assigned route by foot or vehicle to deliver letters, packages, and parcels to mailboxes. Carriers follow established schedules and may interact with customers. Work is largely independent but physically active, requiring walking or driving for several hours. Bad weather doesn't stop delivery, and holiday seasons bring increased mail volume.
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.
People who do well as mail carriers typically enjoy structured work and attention to detail. If you're comfortable with routine, prefer working independently, and like outdoor or physical activity, this work may suit you. Many successful carriers value reliability and take satisfaction in completing concrete, daily tasks.
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 | $51,130 | $64,250 | $81,040 | 930 |
| Rhode Island | $51,130 | $63,610 | $81,040 | 1,220 |
| Arizona | $49,960 | $62,390 | $81,040 | 5,300 |
| California | $51,130 | $62,090 | $81,040 | 32,320 |
| Illinois | $51,110 | $62,070 | $81,040 | 14,730 |
| Maryland | $49,960 | $62,070 | $81,040 | 6,420 |
| Massachusetts | $52,190 | $62,070 | $81,040 | 7,630 |
| Nevada | $49,960 | $62,070 | $81,040 | 2,530 |
| New York | $51,130 | $62,070 | $81,040 | 20,580 |
| Virginia | $48,940 | $62,070 | $79,580 | 7,900 |
| Connecticut | $48,940 | $61,130 | $81,040 | 4,510 |
| Florida | $48,940 | $61,130 | $81,000 | 20,810 |
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 mail carriers and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 43-5052.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.