How to Be Post Office Worker - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Nov 25, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

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The rising cost of stamps has had a profound effect on the post office worker. With the cost of postage continuing to increase, it has become increasingly difficult for post office workers to keep up. This can lead to less efficiency and higher levels of stress, as they are forced to work harder and longer hours in order to meet the demands of the job.

Complaints from customers can also increase due to the slower delivery times, leading to further tension in the workplace. In addition, post office workers are facing a decrease in wages due to the rise in stamp prices, making it harder for them to make ends meet. this can lead to dissatisfaction and job insecurity, further impacting their performance and morale.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a High School Diploma or GED. Most post office jobs require a high school diploma or GED. You can get a GED from your local adult education center.
Prepare for the Postal Exam. The United States Postal Service (USPS) requires applicants to take an exam to get a job. The exam tests your knowledge of basic mathematics, reading comprehension and aptitude. You can prepare for the exam by taking practice tests online.
Find a Job Opening. The USPS posts job openings on its website. You can also find job postings at local post offices.
Apply for the Job. Once you find an opening, you can submit an application to the USPS. Include a copy of your high school diploma or GED, as well as any other relevant information, such as previous employment history or military service.
Attend an Interview. If you meet the qualifications for the job, you will be invited to attend an interview with a USPS representative. This is your opportunity to showcase your skills and knowledge and impress the interviewer.
Take the Postal Exam. Once you have passed the interview, you will be required to take the postal exam. This exam tests your knowledge of basic mathematics, reading comprehension and aptitude.
Receive Job Offer. If you pass the exam, you will be offered a job with the USPS. You may be required to complete additional training before beginning your job.
Start Working. Once you have completed all of the necessary training, you can start working as a post office worker.

Post office workers need to be up-to-date and competent in order to provide efficient customer service. Therefore, they must take the initiative to stay informed and improve their skills. One way to do this is by regularly taking advantage of training opportunities offered by the post office.

These can include online courses, workshops, seminars and webinars. post office workers should take the time to read up on industry news and trends, as well as keep up with changes in postal regulations. By doing this, not only will post office workers stay current on their craft, but they will also be better prepared to answer customers' questions and provide quality service.

You may want to check Delivery Person, Mail Services Coordinator, and Night Mail Sorter for alternative.

Job Description

Sort and distribute incoming mail
Collect outgoing mail from customers
Assist customers with their postal needs
Process forms, such as change of address
Sell stamps, money orders, and other postal products
Process passport applications
Calculate postage charges
Answer inquiries regarding postal regulations and services
Operate postage meters and other postal equipment
Prepare parcels for shipping and delivery

Skills and Competencies to Have

Excellent customer service skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Strong organizational and time management skills
Good interpersonal and communication skills
Attention to detail
Knowledge of office equipment and computer software
Ability to follow instructions
Ability to handle cash and credit transactions accurately
Familiarity with local postal regulations and procedures
Ability to lift and carry heavy packages

Excellent communication skills are a must-have for any post office worker. Being able to effectively communicate with customers and fellow colleagues is essential for a successful job. This includes speaking in a polite, friendly manner, being able to answer questions clearly, and having the ability to listen attentively.

strong customer service skills are required, such as the ability to provide friendly and helpful service, handle difficult customers, and be able to assess customer needs. organizational skills are important for post office workers in order to manage their workload and make sure all tasks are completed on time. Good problem solving skills are also necessary to figure out solutions to any issues that may arise quickly and efficiently.

Finally, having basic computer skills is also beneficial for many post office roles since they often involve using computers and other digital devices. With all these skills combined, post office workers can ensure that they are successful in their role.

Mail Room Technician, Postmaster, and Postal Services Manager are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have working in a post office?
What customer service skills do you possess that would help you excel in this role?
How would you handle a customer who was not satisfied with the service they received?
How do you prioritize tasks when there are multiple customers requiring assistance?
What do you think the most important aspect of a post office worker's job is?
Describe a time when you had to deal with a difficult customer.
Are you familiar with USPS shipping rules and regulations?
How do you remain organized and efficient in a busy post office environment?
Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a large mail delivery.
How do you handle being on your feet for extended periods of time?

Common Tools in Industry

Cash Register. This is a device used to record sales transactions and calculate change owed to customers. (eg: cash register at a grocery store)
Postage Meter. This is an electronic machine used to weigh, calculate and print postage for mail. (eg: Pitney Bowes postage meter)
Stamps. Used to affix a fee onto a letter or package, usually in the form of adhesive paper. (eg: US Postal Service stamps)
Sorting Bin. A container used to separate incoming mail into categories for sorting. (eg: USPS sorting bin)
Scanner. Electronic device used to scan documents and store them electronically. (eg: Xerox WorkCentre scanner)
Computer. Used to manage customer and employee data, update databases, and process payments. (eg: Dell Inspiron laptop)
Label Printer. Used to print address labels onto envelopes and packages. (eg: Dymo LabelWriter printer)
Calculator. Electronic device used to calculate sums and other mathematical calculations. (eg: Texas Instruments TI-83 calculator)

Professional Organizations to Know

National Association of Letter Carriers
National Postal Mail Handlers Union
American Postal Workers Union
National Postal Professional Nurses
National Association of Postmasters of the United States
National Association of Postal Supervisors
National Rural Letter Carriers Association
National Association of Postal Inspectors
National Association of Special Delivery Messengers
National League of Postmasters

We also have Special Delivery Messenger, Postal Delivery Agent, and Post Office Automation Clerk jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Postal Service. A government-operated service responsible for the delivery of mail and parcels to recipients.
Postmaster. The head of a post office, responsible for the efficient operation of the facility.
Mail Carrier. An employee who delivers mail and parcels to recipients.
Postal Clerk. An employee responsible for customer service, sorting mail, selling postage stamps, and handling customer inquiries.
Mail Sorter. An employee responsible for sorting mail into appropriate delivery routes.
Postal Inspector. An employee responsible for investigating and prosecuting mail fraud and other postal crimes.
Mail Handler. An employee responsible for processing and delivering mail and parcels.
Postmark. An official stamp or mark that is placed on a piece of mail by a postal worker to indicate the date and place of mailing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the job description for a Post Office Worker?

Post Office Workers are responsible for providing services to customers, including selling stamps, mailing packages, and processing money orders. They may also assist with sorting and delivering mail and helping customers with their address changes.

What are the qualifications needed to become a Post Office Worker?

Generally, Post Office Workers must be U.S. citizens 18 years of age or older and have a valid driver's license. Additionally, they must pass a background check and drug test, as well as have knowledge of postal regulations and procedures.

What is the average salary for a Post Office Worker?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for Post Office Workers was $56,490 in May 2019.

How many hours does a Post Office Worker typically work?

Post Office Workers typically work 40 hours per week, although overtime may be required during peak mailing seasons such as Christmas and Easter.

What other duties may a Post Office Worker be responsible for?

Post Office Workers may also be responsible for weighing packages, preparing parcels for shipment, providing customer service, and handling customer complaints. They may also be responsible for sorting mail, delivering mail on foot or by vehicle, and collecting payments for money orders or postage.