How to apply for a job at the United States Post Office

Founded in 1775, the United States Postal Service is an independent agency that operates as part of the federal government. It is responsible for delivering postal services across the nation and delivers over 149.5 billion pieces of mail annually. It is also the second-largest employer in the U.S., employing over 496,000 people in 2020 alone!

USPS workers are an essential part of the American workforce and offer competitive salaries, various positions across all skill levels and backgrounds, and premium benefits. Below, we outline the most helpful tips for applying in the most popular departments, including delivery & operations, student & graduates, and transitioning military to help you start working right away.

Good news, job seekers! USPS is hiring NOW across the country. Full-time, part-time and seasonal employment is available. Click here to learn more! No experience is required, and training is provided.

USPS job eligibility requirements:

• 18 years old at the time of employment, or 16 years old with a high school diploma

• Must be a United States citizen, permanent resident, or citizen of American Samoa or other U.S. territory

• Basic competency of the English language

• Ability to successfully pass a criminal background check, drug screening, and medical assessment

• Residency requirement for background checks

• Safe driving record (if applicable to the position)

  • 2 years of continuous driving experience (driving must have taken place in the U.S. or U.S. military installations worldwide)

  • License must not be currently suspended

  • Clean driving record

• Many delivery & operation positions do not require a high school diploma, but you may be required to pass a relevant assessment test dependent on the position

• For many roles, you must be able to lift up to 70 pounds and work in both indoor and outdoor conditions

Helpful tips before you begin your USPS application:

• You must apply to the USPS online at www.usps.com/careers on a desktop or laptop computer. Applications cannot be done in person, and cannot be completed via mobile device

• Make sure that you are using a supported internet browser when applying online. These browsers include; Internet Explorer IE 7-11, Mozilla Firefox, Chrome, and Safari.

• Ensure Adobe PDF Reader is installed and enabled in supported browsers above.

• Be mindful that it may take up to 90 minutes to complete your application entirely.

• Create a USPS Login to register for an account (your Candidate Profile) or login with your existing credentials if you are a returning applicant. The USPS portal for applications, status, and scheduling of potential assessments is called eCareer.

• Fill out your Profile Roadmap: this will include your basic information, including date of birth, address, proof of residency or permanent residency, etc.

• Apply for open positions that are relevant to your interest, location, or functional area by using the "Search Now" button.

Additional helpful tips:

• Make sure to review the requirements listed on each job posting carefully. To ensure that your application is complete, address how your skill set, education, and training match each requirement.

If possible, include a summary of accomplishments and a supplemental document attached or uploaded to your application that demonstrates how your skills and training match the role you are applying for.

• A current resume is highly recommended but not required. To improve hiring chances, it may be helpful to tailor your resume and experience to the department or specific role you are applying to.

• Items marked with an asterisk (*) are mandatory and must be completed in order to proceed with the next step.

Frequently asked questions during the application process

How long does it take to hear back about the status of my application?

Due to the different steps in the application and selection process for various jobs, it is difficult to give an exact period of time. You may be contacted immediately about scheduling an assessment, or there may be questions about your application after you submit it. Applicants are advised to monitor their email closely for communications from USPS regarding the application process.

I was not selected for a job. Can I apply right away for another job?

Yes. Always make sure to check the open vacancies through the search portal for the most up-to-date information.

Will the USPS keep my application on file for other positions?

Your Candidate Profile is available for you to use to apply for other opportunities and will supply much of the application information when you next apply for a position. However, you must actively search for job vacancy postings and specifically apply to the other jobs you are interested in.

Who do I contact for questions regarding the hiring process?

You will be contacted only after you submit an application. The USPS can't answer any questions before a completed application.

How will I receive an interview notice?

You will be notified via the email provided in your Candidate Profile. Make sure to check back in a consistent and timely manner.

NOTE: Many successful applicants and current employees advise that the process goes from application, assessment, background and drug screening, and finally, an interview.

Interested in learning about other career opportunities? Check out our Popular Places to Work Resource Center!