What USPS jobs are and where to find them

The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) hires for two main categories of work: career positions and non-career positions. Career jobs come with benefits, job security, and a union contract. Non-career jobs are temporary or part-time roles with fewer benefits. Both types are posted on USPS Careers (usps.com/careers), the official job board where all openings appear.

Common career positions include mail carrier, postal clerk, mail processing clerk, and maintenance technician. Non-career roles include city carrier assistant, mail handler assistant, and seasonal worker. The type of job you can pursue depends on your location, the current hiring needs of your local post office, and whether you meet the basic requirements — U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status, a valid driver's license (for some roles), and passing a background check and drug test.

USPS does not recruit through private job boards or staffing agencies for most positions. If you see a USPS job posted anywhere other than usps.com/careers, verify the link before applying. Scams that impersonate USPS hiring are common.

Key Takeaways

  • All USPS job openings are posted on usps.com/careers, and you must create an account there to view and respond to postings.
  • Career positions offer benefits and union protection; non-career positions are temporary or part-time with limited benefits.
  • You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, pass a background check and drug test, and meet role-specific requirements like a valid driver's license.
  • The hiring process includes a written exam (for most career roles), an interview, and a medical evaluation before you start work.
  • Hiring timelines vary by location and job type; career positions can take three to six months from application to start date.

Creating an account and searching for openings

Go to usps.com/careers and click "Create Account" to set up a login. You will need a valid email address and a password. Once logged in, you can search by job title, location, or job category. You can also set up job alerts so new postings in your area are sent to your email.

When you find a job that interests you, read the full posting carefully. It will list the specific duties, the salary range, the work schedule, and the exact requirements for that role. Some positions require a Commercial Driver's License (CDL); others require you to be able to lift 70 pounds regularly. If you do not meet a stated requirement, you will not move forward in the process.

Pay attention to the application deadline. USPS typically keeps postings open for a set number of days — often two to four weeks — and closes them when the deadline passes. If you miss the window, you must wait for the next posting in your area.

The written exam and assessment

Most career positions require you to take a written exam before you interview. The exam tests reading comprehension, math, memory, and job-specific skills. For mail carrier roles, the exam is called the Postal Exam 473 (or a newer version). For other positions, the exam name and content vary.

USPS provides study materials and sample questions on its website. You take the exam online or at a testing center, depending on your location and the position. The exam is timed, and you receive a score immediately or within a few days. Your score determines whether you move to the interview stage and where you rank among other candidates.

Non-career positions may skip the written exam and go straight to an interview or a brief phone screening. Check the job posting to see what steps apply to the role you are pursuing.

The interview and background check

If you pass the exam (or if the role does not require one), you will be invited to interview. USPS interviews are typically in person at the local post office or a hiring facility. The interviewer will ask about your work history, why you want the job, how you handle stress, and whether you can work the required schedule — which for mail carriers often includes Saturdays and early mornings.

After the interview, USPS will conduct a background check. This includes a criminal history review, verification of your employment history, and a check of your driving record (for roles that require driving). You must disclose any criminal convictions, but a record does not automatically disqualify you; USPS considers the nature and age of the offense and how it relates to the job.

You will also be asked to complete a medical evaluation and a drug test. The medical evaluation confirms you can perform the physical demands of the job. The drug test screens for illegal substances. Both must be passed before you receive a job offer.

Salary, benefits, and the hiring timeline

Career USPS positions come with federal employee benefits: health insurance, retirement through the Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS), life insurance, and paid leave (vacation and sick time). Salary depends on the position and your location. A mail carrier starting salary ranges widely by region; USPS publishes the pay scale for each position on its website.

Non-career positions typically do not include health insurance or retirement benefits, though some receive a small hourly wage increase after a set period. Seasonal workers are paid hourly and have no benefits.

The entire hiring process — from application to start date — usually takes three to six months for career positions. Non-career hiring can be faster, sometimes two to four weeks. During this time, USPS may contact you multiple times to confirm information or schedule appointments. Respond promptly to all communications; delays on your end can slow the process or result in your application being closed.

What happens after you are hired

Once you receive a job offer and accept it, you will receive a start date and instructions for your first day. Career employees go through a formal training program, which varies by position. Mail carriers typically complete classroom training followed by on-the-job training with an experienced carrier. This training period lasts several weeks.

During your first 90 days (called the probationary period), you can be terminated without cause. After 90 days, you gain job protections under the union contract. Career employees can then file grievances if they believe they have been treated unfairly, and they have the right to union representation.

Non-career employees do not have the same protections. They can be let go at any time, and their hours may vary based on USPS needs.

Common reasons applications are rejected or delayed

Applications are rejected most often because the candidate does not meet a stated requirement — for example, lacking a valid driver's license when one is required, or not being a U.S. citizen. Some candidates are rejected after the background check reveals a disqualifying criminal conviction or a pattern of poor employment history.

Applications are delayed when USPS receives a high volume of applications for a single position. In busy hiring seasons (often fall and early winter), the queue can be long. You may also experience delays if USPS cannot reach you to schedule an exam or interview. Keep your phone number and email current in your account, and check your email and voicemail regularly.

If your application is rejected, USPS will send you a notice explaining why. You can reapply when the next posting opens in your area, and you can address any issues that led to the rejection (for example, obtaining a required license).

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to live in the area where I am applying?

No. You can apply to any USPS position anywhere in the country. However, if you are hired, you must be able to report to work at the assigned location. Some candidates relocate for USPS jobs; others apply in their home area. The job posting will specify the work location.

Can I apply for multiple positions at the same time?

Yes. You can have multiple applications open with USPS at the same time. However, if you receive a job offer, you must accept or decline it before pursuing other positions. You cannot hold multiple job offers from USPS simultaneously.

What if I fail the written exam?

You can retake the exam, but you must wait a set period before doing so — usually 120 days. USPS will tell you when you are may be able to access to retake it. You can study using the sample materials on usps.com/careers and prepare differently for your next attempt.

How do I know if I passed the background check?

USPS will contact you directly if you pass and move forward to the medical evaluation and drug test. If you do not pass, you will receive a written notice explaining the reason. You can request more details or dispute information you believe is incorrect.

What is the difference between a career and non-career position?

Career positions are permanent, full-time jobs with federal benefits, job security, and union representation. Non-career positions are temporary, part-time, or seasonal with no benefits and no job protection after hire. Career jobs are more competitive and take longer to fill. Non-career positions hire faster but offer less stability.