Mail Carrier Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of e-commerce and online communication, the role of mail carriers is more crucial than ever.

As the world continues to rely heavily on physical deliveries, the need for dependable individuals who can efficiently manage and deliver our mail becomes increasingly important.

But let’s look deeper: What is really expected from a mail carrier?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager trying to outline the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the dynamics of mail carrier jobs,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable mail carrier job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Mail Carrier Duties and Responsibilities

Mail Carriers are responsible for collecting and delivering mail, packages and parcels in a timely, accurate, and professional manner.

They also interact with the public and must maintain a courteous and friendly demeanor.

Their primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Sorting mail and packages in the post office before delivery
• Following a planned route to deliver mail, parcels, and packages to homes and businesses
• Obtaining signatures for registered, certified, and insured mail
• Operating a vehicle in all types of weather conditions to deliver mail
• Collecting outgoing mail and packages from customers
• Delivering notifications to recipients of package delivery
• Returning undeliverable mail to the post office
• Keeping records of deliveries and customer issues
• Handling cash and other forms of payment for postage due and COD (Cash on Delivery) orders
• Maintaining cleanliness and basic maintenance of delivery vehicle
• Answering customer inquiries about postal regulations and services

 

Mail Carrier Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated Mail Carrier to join our team.

The Mail Carrier’s responsibilities include sorting and delivering mail accurately and on time to residences and businesses.

Candidates for this position must be physically fit to carry heavy items and walk or drive for long periods.

Knowledge of local street geography and a clean driving record are also essential.

Ultimately, the Mail Carrier’s role is to ensure that mail, parcels, and packages reach their intended destinations in a timely and secure manner.

 

Responsibilities

• Sort mail by address and/or zip code
• Deliver mail to residences and businesses
• Collect outgoing mail and packages
• Record delivery information such as signatures or notices left
• Handle mail and packages securely to prevent damage or loss
• Operate and maintain mail vehicles in a safe, clean and efficient manner
• Report any unusual circumstances concerning mail delivery, including the condition of street letter boxes
• Answer customers’ queries about postal services and regulations
• Report any changes of address

 

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
• Experience in a mailroom or delivery position is advantageous
• Good physical stamina and the ability to lift heavy items
• Excellent knowledge of local streets and addresses
• Outstanding customer service skills
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work under various weather conditions

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Uniform provided

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Mail Carrier
• Work Environment: Primarily outdoors, with driving and walking regardless of weather conditions. Some sorting work may be inside a postal facility.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Postmaster or Mailroom Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $36,650 minimum to $51,510 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Mail Carrier Do?

Mail Carriers, also known as postal workers, work for the national postal service.

They are responsible for delivering mail to homes, businesses and PO boxes in a specific route or area.

They prepare, sort, and deliver mail, including letters, packages, and bulk materials, by walking or driving along established routes.

They also collect outgoing mail and packages from customers along their route.

They are responsible for organizing mail in their delivery sequence, ensuring that all mail is correctly delivered, and obtaining signatures for registered, certified, and insured mail.

Mail Carriers work in all weather conditions and often perform their duties alone.

They are expected to be knowledgeable about the areas they serve and must be able to answer customers’ queries about postal regulations and services.

In some cases, they may also sell stamps, money orders, postal stationery, and more, as well as provide special services such as registered or express mail.

Some Mail Carriers may also be required to service postal machines in post offices and businesses, which could involve replenishing their supplies and making minor repairs.

 

Mail Carrier Qualifications and Skills

An effective mail carrier should possess the qualifications and skills that align with the responsibilities of the job role, which include:

• Physical fitness and endurance to be able to walk or drive for long periods, and handle heavy mailbags.
• Excellent time management skills to deliver mail and packages in a timely and efficient manner.
• Strong knowledge of local geography and routes to deliver mail accurately and swiftly.
• Interpersonal skills to interact with customers and colleagues in a friendly and professional manner.
• Attention to detail to ensure that each piece of mail and package is delivered to the correct address.
• Problem-solving abilities to deal with unforeseen issues or challenges that may occur during mail delivery.
• Customer service skills to handle queries or complaints from customers and provide appropriate solutions.
• Ability to work under different weather conditions as mail delivery happens irrespective of the weather.
• Basic mathematical skills for tasks such as counting and sorting mail.

 

Mail Carrier Experience Requirements

Mail Carrier positions often require little to no prior experience, as much of the necessary training is provided on the job.

However, having some background in customer service or delivery roles can be beneficial for these positions.

For entry-level roles, candidates may need to demonstrate basic skills such as the ability to handle heavy mail bags, operate mail delivery vehicles, and navigate different routes effectively.

Those who have worked for a year or more as a Mail Carrier may be considered for senior roles, where they may need to handle more complex tasks such as managing mail distribution and training new hires.

Candidates with over 3 years of experience could be suited for supervisory roles within the postal service, where they might be responsible for overseeing the work of other Mail Carriers, managing schedules, and ensuring compliance with postal regulations.

Those who have been in the field for more than 5 years, and have demonstrated their ability to handle managerial responsibilities, might be considered for Postmaster roles, which require extensive knowledge of postal operations and regulations.

 

Mail Carrier Education and Training Requirements

Mail Carriers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.

To become a Mail Carrier, one must pass the 473 Postal Exam, which measures the ability to check addresses and forms, codify information, and complete forms correctly.

Once hired, they undergo several weeks of on-the-job training, which includes mail sorting and delivery procedures.

Also, the U.S. Postal Service provides classroom training on professional ethics, safety procedures, and postal policies.

While a higher education degree is not required, possessing one may help candidates stand out from competition and may help with advancement opportunities within the postal service.

Also, since the job requires driving a vehicle, a valid driver’s license and a clean driving record are often necessary.

Physical fitness is often a requirement due to the heavy lifting and long periods of walking associated with the job.

This may be evaluated through a pre-employment medical assessment.

Continued education and training are encouraged, especially in areas like customer service and technology updates for sorting and delivering mail.

 

Mail Carrier Salary Expectations

A Mail Carrier earns an average salary of $52,060 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings can fluctuate based on factors such as years of experience, location, and the postal service company.

 

Mail Carrier Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Mail Carrier need?

Mail Carriers need to be organized, reliable, and capable of handling a large volume of mail in a systematic manner.

They also need to have good time management skills to effectively handle their delivery routes.

Physical stamina is necessary as the job involves carrying heavy mail bags and walking or driving for long periods.

Additionally, they should have good interpersonal skills to interact with the public in a positive and professional manner.

 

Do Mail Carriers need a degree?

Mail Carriers do not need a degree, however, a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required.

Prospective carriers must pass a civil service exam that tests address checking, forms completion, coding, memory and personal characteristics and experience.

Mail Carriers must also have a valid driver’s license and a good driving record, as they may be required to deliver mail by vehicle.

 

What should you look for in a Mail Carrier resume?

When looking at a Mail Carrier’s resume, check for previous experience in delivery or customer service roles.

They should have a clean driving record and valid driver’s license.

A good Mail Carrier resume will also show skills in organization, time management, and route navigation.

Additionally, any experience or skills that showcase physical stamina and resilience can be a plus, as the job often involves working outdoors in varying weather conditions.

 

What qualities make a good Mail Carrier?

A good Mail Carrier is reliable, punctual, and efficient.

They should be able to handle physical labor and have the stamina to be on their feet for extended periods.

Good organizational skills are also key to manage and prioritize large volumes of mail.

Additionally, they should have good interpersonal skills, as they often represent the postal service to the public.

A good Mail Carrier also understands the importance of safeguarding mail and packages, maintaining customer trust.

 

What are the physical demands for a Mail Carrier?

Being a Mail Carrier is physically demanding.

The job often requires lifting heavy mail bags, walking or driving for long periods, and enduring varying weather conditions.

Mail Carriers may also need to climb stairs and reach or stretch to place mail in mailboxes.

Therefore, physical fitness and stamina are essential for this role.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve dug deep into the real essence of being a mail carrier.

And you know what?

It’s not just about delivering letters.

It’s about connecting communities, one piece of mail at a time.

With our comprehensive mail carrier job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your next move.

But why limit yourself?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating spot-on job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every piece of mail is a part of a larger story.

Let’s keep the world connected. Together.

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