Mail Sorter Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In an increasingly connected world, the need for efficient mail sorting has never been more critical.

As communication continues to evolve, so does the demand for proficient individuals who can streamline, organize, and secure our mail systems.

So, what exactly is expected from a mail sorter?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or just curious about the specifics of mail sorting,

You’re in the right place.

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

Let’s dive right into it.

Mail Sorter Duties and Responsibilities

Mail Sorters perform a variety of tasks related to the handling, sorting, and delivery of mail.

They are usually employed in post offices, shipping companies, or commercial mail services companies.

Mail Sorters are primarily responsible for ensuring the correct delivery of mail, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Receive, sort, and sequence mail for delivery
• Operate sorting machinery and equipment
• Check mail items for correct postage
• Bundle, label, and route sorted mail to designated areas depending on destinations
• Handle packages and parcels and ensure they are correctly sorted and dispatched
• Enter details of received delivery items into computer system
• Inspect mail items to ensure they are in appropriate condition for mailing
• Maintain accuracy of sorted mail by verifying that correct labels are on the appropriate items
• Resolve issues with incorrect or undeliverable mail
• Adhere to safety and health regulations

 

Mail Sorter Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a diligent Mail Sorter to manage our incoming and outgoing mail.

The Mail Sorter’s responsibilities include receiving, sorting, and distributing mail according to destination and type, operating sorting machinery, and ensuring the mailroom is clean and organized.

Our ideal candidate is detail-oriented, able to work in a fast-paced environment and has excellent organizational skills.

Ultimately, the role of the Mail Sorter is to ensure that all mail is correctly sorted, dispatched, and delivered in a timely manner.

 

Responsibilities

• Sort incoming and outgoing mail and packages by type and destination
• Operate sorting machinery and equipment as necessary
• Ensure the mailroom is clean and organized
• Handle sensitive and confidential documents with discretion
• Report any issues or inconsistencies with incoming mail
• Assist with packaging and dispatching outgoing mail and packages
• Collaborate with team members to ensure efficient mailroom operations
• Follow all company policies and postal regulations

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Mail Sorter or similar role preferred
• Knowledge of postal regulations and procedures
• Ability to operate mail sorting machinery
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills
• High level of attention to detail
• Ability to stand for extended periods
• High school diploma or equivalent

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• On-the-job training

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Mail Sorter
• Work Environment: This role requires work in a mailroom environment. Physical activity including lifting, standing for long periods, and handling of machinery is necessary.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Mailroom Supervisor.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $24,000 minimum to $32,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• 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 to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Mail Sorter Do?

Mail Sorters work for postal services, courier companies, or large businesses that send and receive a high volume of mail.

They play a crucial role in ensuring that letters, parcels, and packages reach the intended recipients in a timely manner.

Their primary responsibility is to sort mail according to its destination.

This requires a good understanding of postal codes, regions, and sorting procedures.

They group the mail by size, type, and destination, then place the sorted items into the appropriate slots or sacks for delivery.

Additionally, they may be required to operate mail sorting machines, which automate the process and increase efficiency.

This entails feeding mail into the machine, monitoring its operation, and troubleshooting any issues that arise.

Mail Sorters also perform quality checks, ensuring that all items are correctly addressed, stamped, and sorted.

This role may also involve tasks such as bundling sorted mail, bagging it for delivery, and keeping records of the volumes of mail handled.

In some cases, Mail Sorters may also handle registered, certified, or special delivery mail and assist with customer service inquiries regarding mail delivery.

This role requires attention to detail, the ability to work quickly and accurately, and basic computer skills for operating sorting machines and maintaining records.

 

Mail Sorter Qualifications and Skills

Mail Sorters should have a variety of skills and qualifications that help them efficiently sort and deliver mail, such as:

• Attention to detail to accurately sort mail according to address, name, and department codes.
• Organizational skills to keep track of sorted and unsorted mail, ensuring that all mail is correctly categorized and sent out for delivery.
• Physical fitness and endurance to stand for extended periods and handle heavy mail items or bags.
• Basic math skills for calculating postage rates and handling parcels of different weights and sizes.
• Knowledge of postal regulations and procedures to ensure mail is handled and processed correctly.
• Good manual dexterity to quickly and efficiently sort mail and packages.
• Problem-solving skills to identify errors in deliveries and find the most effective solutions.
• Ability to work under pressure especially during peak mail periods.

 

Mail Sorter Experience Requirements

Mail Sorters usually start their career with little to no experience, as most of the skills required are learned on the job.

However, having prior experience in warehouse, distribution, or other similar environments can be advantageous.

Entry-level candidates may have experience from part-time roles or summer jobs in mailrooms, post offices, or similar settings.

These roles often involve sorting, packaging, and handling mail or packages which provide invaluable experience for a mail sorter role.

Candidates with one to two years of experience as a Mail Sorter are generally proficient in sorting mail according to the destination, handling packages appropriately, and operating mail sorting machines.

Those with more than three years of experience usually have developed more advanced skills such as identifying mis-sorted mail, performing routine maintenance on sorting equipment, or even training new employees.

They may also have some supervisory experience, which can be beneficial for roles requiring overseeing a team of mail sorters.

Candidates with over five years of experience are considered highly experienced and may be ready for managerial positions within the postal system, such as Mailroom Supervisor or Postmaster.

 

Mail Sorter Education and Training Requirements

Mail Sorters typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.

On-the-job training is usually provided to new hires, teaching them to operate sorting machinery, understand postal regulations, and recognize the nuances of various postal codes.

Although a specific degree is not necessary for this role, having literacy and numeracy skills is essential due to the nature of the job.

A basic understanding of geography can also be beneficial in recognizing and sorting mail by locations.

Computer literacy is becoming increasingly important in this role, as more post offices are incorporating digital technology into their sorting processes.

While not mandatory, some Mail Sorters opt to take additional courses on logistics and supply chain management to enhance their understanding of the postal system and improve their job prospects.

No state licensure or certification is required to work as a Mail Sorter.

However, they must pass a criminal background check due to the sensitive nature of handling others’ mail.

Physical fitness may also be required as the job often involves standing for long periods and lifting heavy packages.

 

Mail Sorter Salary Expectations

A Mail Sorter typically earns an average of $13.34 (USD) per hour.

However, the actual wage can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and the specific company they work for.

 

Mail Sorter Job Description FAQs

What skills does a mail sorter need?

A mail sorter needs to have strong organizational skills, attention to detail and accuracy.

They also need to have good physical stamina as the job can be physically demanding with lifting and moving of heavy mail bags.

Basic literacy and numeracy skills are also needed to accurately sort mail according to postal codes and addresses.

 

Do mail sorters need a degree?

Mail sorters do not need a degree.

However, they must have a basic understanding of reading and numeracy to sort mail correctly.

Most of the training happens on the job where they learn the postal codes and the sorting system used by the company.

 

What should you look for in a mail sorter resume?

When looking at a mail sorter resume, check for previous experience in a similar role.

This can indicate their familiarity with the job demands and their ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Strong physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a team are also qualities to look for.

 

What qualities make a good mail sorter?

A good mail sorter is highly organized, has a keen eye for detail and is capable of standing for long periods.

They should also have strong problem-solving abilities to quickly identify any discrepancies in the sorting process.

Good team collaboration skills are important, as they often have to work closely with other mail sorters and delivery personnel.

 

What are the physical demands of a mail sorter job?

The mail sorter job can be physically demanding.

It involves standing for long periods, lifting heavy mail bags, and moving quickly to sort mail efficiently.

Therefore, physical stamina and good health are important qualities for this job.

 

Are mail sorters required to work during unusual hours?

Yes, mail sorters often work during unusual hours as mail sorting facilities typically operate around the clock to ensure mail is delivered on time.

This could involve working early mornings, late evenings, or even overnight shifts.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the unseen intricacies of being a mail sorter.

Surprised?

It’s not just about sorting mail.

It’s about creating a seamless flow of communication, one letter at a time.

With our robust mail sorter job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But let’s not stop here.

Immerse yourself deeper with our job description generator. It’s your pathway to meticulously crafted listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every sorted mail piece contributes to a larger process.

Let’s streamline this process. Together.

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