Also called: Letter Carrier, Rural Carrier, City Carrier Assistant, Rural Carrier Associate
Delivers mail and packages to homes and businesses on foot or in a postal truck, six days a week in all weather.
Carriers start at the post office sorting their route's mail and packages, then spend most of the day outdoors walking or driving the route, knowing which dogs are friendly and which neighbor needs a check-in. New carriers usually start as part-time assistants with irregular hours.
BLS postal service mail carriers, May 2025. Federal benefits and a pension are a big plus.
High school diploma, about 0 years after high school. High school diploma, the Postal Service exam (Virtual Entry Assessment), a clean driving record, and on-the-job training.
Ways in: On-the-job training. Training cost: Get paid while you train.
Growing slowly (about 0% over 10 years). BLS 2025-35 projection.
Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. Sorting is automated; walking routes stay human for now, though delivery robots and drones may cut some routes by 2036.
Age 18+. One way to start: Apply at usps.com/careers for City or Rural Carrier Assistant jobs First: Postal Service entry exam (Virtual Entry Assessment) and background check
Classes: Physical education, Driver's education, Geography.
Official data: O*NET occupation 43-5052.
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