What is Postmates, and how can you get a job there?

Postmates is a popular on-demand food delivery service with opportunities for drivers across the US. Whether you're studying, working, or unemployed, a flexible delivery driver position can help you grow your bank balance. So, what does it take to work at Postmates? Do you get benefits, and how much can you make? Are there any other job types available? In the following article, we'll answer all of these questions and more. Plus, we'll tell you about the application process and explain how the background check works. Now, let's get started.

What is Postmates?

Postmates is a tech company specializing in on-demand food delivery. With the app, customers can order a wide range of items from their favorite local stores. For example, they can shop for restaurant meals, groceries, alcohol, and retail goods. A delivery driver will collect the order and bring it to the customer's door. Depending on the location, Postmates has car, scooter, and bike delivery options available. The brand first launched in 2011, and in 2020 it was taken over by Uber. Due to the change of ownership in the US, the service is being transitioned into the Uber Eats brand. The Postmates headquarters is located in San Francisco, California. It has a large user base in a growing marketplace. For example, the Android app has been downloaded more than ten million times, and the iOs app has been rated more than 1.9 million times. Customers can use the service every day of the year. Depending on the partner's opening hours, deliveries can be made both day and night.

What do you need to work at Postmates?

To work as a Postmates driver in the US, you'll need to be at least eighteen years old. You'll need a valid driver's license, a reliable vehicle, insurance, and a clean driving record. If you don't own a car, there are bike or scooter delivery options available in some city locations. However, you'll still need to verify your identity with either your driver's license or passport. You should live in the area that you're applying to work in. To get the job, you'll need an iOs or Android smartphone with reliable internet. Plus, you'll need to download the Postmates app. Postmates drivers need a valid Social Security number. You'll need to supply your current mailing address and upload a profile photo with your headshot. To be successful, you'll need to be self-motivated and confident on the road. The role requires communication skills, organization, and time management. When you get paid, your income will go into your checking account. You’ll need to provide your account details during the application process.

What is a Postmates gig worker?

A Postmates gig worker is an independent contractor. These delivery drivers accept orders placed by customers on the Postmates app. They go to the pickup location and collect the goods. Then, the Postmates delivery driver drops off the order to the customer. Sometimes, contact-free delivery will be requested. Unlike traditional employees, gig workers don't get standard health benefits. They're also responsible for paying their own taxes, and there's no paid time off (PTO) or sick leave. The main advantage of being a food service delivery driver is the flexible work hours. A gig job can be a good way to make extra income around other commitments. For example, if you already have a job, or if you’re a student or a parent, you can earn money in the evenings or on weekends.

What other jobs are available at Postmates?

We've chatted about delivery driver positions at Postmates, but it takes a team of people to keep the company running smoothly. If you're interested in a part-time or full-time role, you can apply for a corporate job. For example, there are customer service associates who are available via phone and social media. These workers answer calls, respond to messages, and provide support for customers and drivers. The service is available twenty-four hours a day, so flexibility is required. Then, there are jobs in finance. Sometimes, Postmates may be looking to fill positions for payroll officers, data entry clerks, and accountants. If you have a background in technology, you could land a job as a software engineer, product designer, or graphic designer. As a digital media company, Postmates also works with freelance copywriters, photographers, and social media managers. Postmates is always growing its delivery network, and this is supported by roles in management, recruitment, and training. While some positions may be remote, most corporate roles are based at the company's headquarters in San Francisco, California. Unlike delivery driver positions, hourly employees get a full range of traditional benefits.

How to apply for a job at Postmates

The Postmates application process can depend on where you live. Because the company is now owned by Uber, you may be redirected to the Uber Eats sign-up page. You can start by visiting Postmates and clicking “sign up to deliver.” This is at the bottom of the page. It’s a simple step-by-step process with minimal information required. There are a few basic fields to enter, including your name, phone number, email address, and location. You’ll need to verify you’re a real person and agree to the terms and conditions. During this process, you’ll need to share your driver’s license number and vehicle details. This information can be used to verify your eligibility to drive in the US. The company will also need your payment details, so you can get paid for any jobs you do. After you’ve filled in your details, you’ll need to pass a background check. You’ll then be sent a welcome kit, which includes a prepaid shopping card and delivery bag. Once you’ve been approved, you can start accepting jobs via the app. For other corporate roles, the application process will be more thorough and include a job interview.

Tips for your Postmates application

Before you start your application, make sure you have everything you need to do the job. If you're planning to deliver by car, make sure your vehicle is safe. Now is a good time to get your car checked over and organize your insurance. If you're not sure what will show up on your background check, you can do your own. For example, Better Future is a free service from Checkr, the company that does background checks for Postmates. You'll see everything on your record, and if there's a mistake, you can try to get it resolved before submitting your job application. Make sure your contact details are correct because Postmates will need to communicate with you. You should also download the app to get familiar with how the service works. Want more Postmates tips? Check out our application tips for the fleet delivery company.

Common Postmates interview questions

If you're applying for a Postmates delivery job, you won't be asked for an interview. As long as you meet the minimum requirements, you'll be ready to start work. For other corporate positions, you can expect a phone or in-person interview. If you do have to speak to a hiring manager, what will you be asked? Here are some of the most common Postmates interview questions:

• Why do you want to work at Postmates?
• How do your skills match this position?
• Can you tell us about a time when you gave excellent customer service?
• What are your goals for the future?
• Are you interested in technology?
• What is your greatest strength?
• How would you deal with a conflict in the workplace?
• Do you have any questions for us? We recommend practicing before the day to boost your confidence. For more common interview questions and sample answers, check out this interview guide.

Will Postmates do a background check?

Anyone who wants to work for Postmates needs to pass a background check. The brand uses a third-party company called Checkr to look at your history. Why? If you're a delivery driver, you'll deal with customers and store owners. Because you'll be representing Postmates, the company wants to make sure you're a good fit. If someone has a history of violent crimes, it could be seen as a risk to public safety. The background check report will cover different areas. There's a criminal background check that highlights any misdemeanors or felonies. It covers databases across the country and goes back at least seven years. There's also a driving background check. Delivery drivers need to be responsible on the road, and this check shows Postmates that your driver's license is valid and in good standing. Any motor crimes or traffic infringements will show up on the report, including DUIs, speeding tickets, and incidents of reckless driving. If there's something on your record, you may still get hired. The final decision will depend on the type of crime and the time that has passed. For example, a parking ticket from years ago won't have the same red flag as a recent sexual assault charge. You can learn more by visiting our Postmates background check guide.

Does Postmates do a drug test?

As an independent contractor, you won't have the same rules as a traditional employee. If you're applying for a Postmates driver position, there won't usually be a drug test. However, any drug or alcohol-related offenses will appear on your background check report. So, if you've ever been arrested for trafficking or a DUI - Postmates will find out. Even if your record is clean now, any future offenses will be flagged. For example, if you have an accident that involves drugs, it could lead to your termination. For some corporate roles, a drug test may be part of the pre-employment screening process. In this case, you'll be asked for a urine sample that will be sent to a third-party laboratory for testing. This drug test flags any illegal drugs and marijuana in your system. Some prescription drugs can also show up, and we recommend talking to your doctor if you’re taking regular medication.

What benefits do you get at Postmates?

Delivery drivers who work for the Postmates e-commerce platform won't get all the perks of a full-time employee. But there are some unique benefits that come with this role. While gig workers don't get traditional health insurance, Postmates has an affordable solution. The company has partnered with Stride Health Insurance to offer eligible drivers a low-cost health benefits package. There are different options, but you can expect a range of medical benefits with a starting price of $10 per month. To work as a driver, you'll need motor insurance. To make sure you're protected during your shifts, you’ll get additional accident insurance for free. Flexible work hours give drivers a good work-life balance, and you can choose to work when it suits you. If you have an unexpected expense, you can boost your hours. On the other hand, if you need time off, you can take unpaid leave for as long as you need to. Plus, there's a casual dress code, so you can wear comfortable clothing to work. However, keep in mind that you should be neatly presented during all deliveries because you'll be representing the Postmates brand. There are also bonuses and free Postmates memberships. Drivers in California are entitled to additional benefits, like a stipend for health insurance, if they drive 15 hours or more a week. For full-time and part-time employees, there's a full suite of benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and commuter benefits. Find out more in our comprehensive Postmates benefits guide.

How much can you make at Postmates?

Your Postmates income will vary depending on where you live and how many hours you work. For a delivery driver, the typical salary is between $9.00 and $26.00 per hour. The average across the US is $15.00 per hour. You can increase your earnings by working during busy periods, such as lunch and dinner shifts. Plus, happy customers can give drivers a tip. What about other Postmates positions? If you get a job as a customer service associate, the average salary is $15.00 per hour. Someone working as an event coordinator will make around $26.00 per hour, while freelance photographers make an average of $27.00 per hour. Postmates payroll coordinators have a pay range of $14.00 to $26.00 per hour. An operations support specialist can make $22.00 per hour, and a web content specialist makes an average of $15.00 per hour.

How do you make bonuses at Postmates?

There are a few ways to increase your Postmates earnings. First, you can choose the right shifts. Delivery fees are usually higher during peak periods, including Friday and Saturday nights. Sometimes, there'll be orders that come with bonus earnings. If you can, select multiple orders that are close together. While you shouldn't let food get cold, you can stack your orders to maximize your time. Another way to boost your earnings is with tips. When you deliver orders on time and with care, customers will be more likely to give you a tip. Any tips are yours to keep, not including taxes, and Postmates won't take a percentage.

Where to find a Postmates job

When you're ready to start looking for your new role, you can browse Postmates positions on our job board. Whether you want to be a gig worker or find a corporate job, this is a good place to start your search. We also recommend browsing Uber vacancies. You can sign up for a free account, set up job alerts, and chat in our community discussions. Or, if you want to apply for a Postmates driver position, you can sign up on the company's application page. You'll need to complete a few details and agree to the terms and conditions.

Similar jobs to Postmates

Postmates isn't the only brand that hires gig workers in the US. There are other tech companies that rely on a delivery driver network. For example, there's DoorDash. These independent contractors are called Dashers, and they visit different food locations and deliver restaurant meals to customers. Uber owns Postmates and has its own list of services. A few popular options include Uber Eats for food delivery, Uber Direct for retail items, and Uber Connect for package deliveries. Job seekers may also consider Grubhub, another service that focuses exclusively on restaurant meal delivery. Then, there's Instacart for grocery pickup and delivery and Gopuff, which customers can use for food and alcohol orders. Alternatively, you can look at Amazon Flex, a parcel delivery service that's used by the tech giant. The option you choose will depend on what's available in your area and whether you meet the minimum hiring requirements.

Working at Postmates

Postmates is an on-demand delivery service that’s now owned by Uber. If you want to deliver goods by car, bike, or scooter, you can fill out a quick online application. You’ll be working as an independent contractor, so your benefits can vary. However, you can expect flexible shifts, options for health insurance, and tips. Before you can start work, you’ll need to meet the minimum age requirement. Plus, you’ll have to pass a background check. Sometimes, Postmates hires for other positions. For example, there are jobs in customer service, software development, and finance. Ready for a change? There are jobs available across the country. You can see who is hiring by visiting our job board. Don’t forget to check out our resource center for more hints and tips.