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 630,000 people as of 2019.

They are an essential part of the American workforce and offer competitive salaries, various positions across all skill levels and backgrounds, and provide premium benefits. Below, we outline the most helpful tips for applying in the most popular departments including delivery & operations, student & graduates, and transitioning military.

USPS Job Eligibility Requirements:

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

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

• Basic competency of the English language

• Record of recent employment history

• 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

  • License must not be currently suspended

  • Applicants must have a valid state driver’s license, a safe driving record, and at least two years of unsupervised experience driving passenger cars or larger. The driving must have taken place in the U.S. or its possessions or territories or in U.S. military installations worldwide. For some positions, a personal vehicle suitable for use may be required.

• 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 using the Search Now button that are relevant to your interest, location, or functional area.

Additional Helpful Tips:

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

• Summary of Accomplishments: a supplemental document attached or uploaded to your application that demonstrates how your skills and training matches the role in which 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 in which you are interested.

Who do I contact for questions regarding the hiring process?

You will be contacted only after you submit an application. It is not possible for the USPS to answer any questions prior to 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.

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