Postal Service Mail Sorters, Processors, and Processing Machine Operators
Postal Service mail sorters, processors, and processing machine operators prepare mail for delivery and process it through USPS facilities. They examine, sort, and route incoming and outgoing mail, operate sorting and canceling machinery, and maintain records of shipments and pouches. Most work in postal distribution centers or local post offices.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against postal service mail sorters, processors, and processing machine operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical week involves sorting mail by destination and zip code, loading mail into processing machines, and monitoring equipment for jams or errors. Workers may cancel stamps, weigh packages, and organize mail into delivery sequences. They keep detailed records of processed items and pouches. The work is repetitive and physically demanding, with shifts that may include early mornings or evenings to meet mail delivery schedules.
Who this work suits
Holland code CRS. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to do well in this role if you prefer structured, organized work and are comfortable following established procedures. People who value reliability, attention to detail, and practical hands-on tasks—rather than abstract problem-solving—thrive in this position.
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 | $53,290 | $66,750 | $75,280 | 400 |
| South Dakota | $55,350 | $61,570 | $71,930 | 210 |
| Iowa | $50,770 | $60,530 | $75,030 | 1,040 |
| New Jersey | $50,770 | $60,530 | $75,280 | 3,660 |
| Wyoming | $54,330 | $60,530 | $75,030 | 120 |
| North Dakota | $50,770 | $59,840 | $71,930 | 240 |
| Minnesota | $54,330 | $59,740 | $70,890 | 1,840 |
| California | $50,770 | $59,490 | $75,030 | 10,090 |
| Hawaii | $50,770 | $59,490 | $75,030 | 370 |
| Maine | $52,670 | $59,490 | $75,030 | 440 |
| Michigan | $52,310 | $59,490 | $75,030 | 3,370 |
| Nebraska | $52,670 | $59,490 | $70,890 | 640 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Certified Mail Manager (CMM) — In-Plant Printing and Mailing Association
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 sorters, processors, and processing machine operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 43-5053.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.