USPS Hiring Process (details + FAQ here)
Subsidiaries disclose: We may receive commissions for links in this article.
Finding stable, well-paying jobs is difficult, especially for those without a college degree or GED. Fortunately, the U.S. Postal Service offers a plethora of career-track, entry-level positions that require little education or training.
So, in this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know to get a job at USPS. To that end, we discuss the steps of the hiring process, find out how long it takes to find a job, and find out if it’s hard to find a USPS job, so keep reading to learn more!
What is the USPS Recruiting Process for 2022?
The 2022 USPS recruiting process has 5 steps. After finding open positions and filling out applications, applicants must pass an online exam that tests their memory, speed and accuracy. Applicants with a score of 70% or higher proceed to the interview stage and complete a pre-employment background check.
To get more details about the recruiting process, make sure you finish reading this article for more helpful facts and tips!
What are the steps in the USPS hiring process?
The USPS hiring process consists of 5 steps that we detail below. Use this list as a guide as you begin your search for USPS job opportunities.
1. Visit the USPS website and set up an account
Here you can browse available jobs by type or location.
Make sure you pay attention to the requirements listed in the job description.
You’ll have a better chance of being hired if you can demonstrate how your training, education, and experience meet each requirement.
When you find a Post Office job that interests you, click the “Apply” button. Once clicked, you will be redirected to your USPS profile to apply for the position.
2. Fill out the job application
Be thorough when completing the online application and be sure to include all of your education, work experience and training.
Allow at least an hour (if not more) to complete the application.
3. Successfully pass the online exam
Applicants will be required to take an online exam to determine their eligibility for the desired position.
There are several different types of exams for different positions. E.g…
- 474 – Urban Carrier, Urban Carrier Assistant, Leisure Urban Carrier, Rural Carrier, Rural Carrier Assistant, Rural Carrier Assistant
- 475 – Mail Handlers, Assistant Mail Handlers, Casual Mail Handlers
- 476 – Mail Handling Clerk, PSE Mail Handling Clerk, Temporary Mail Handling Clerk
- 477 – Sales Service and Distribution Assistant, PSE Sales Service and Distribution Assistant, Leisure Sales Service and Distribution Assistant
Although the format of each test is slightly different, in general, each test tests an applicant’s memory, speed, accuracy, and ability to follow instructions.
It should take approximately 30 to 45 minutes to complete.
You must score at least 70% to be considered for a position. Of course, the higher your score, the better your chances of getting hired.
4. Complete the interview
Depending on the position and location you are applying for, you may be required to complete an individual or group interview.
Either way, USPS interviewers are looking at…
- your communication skills
- Your ability to adapt to changing situations
- how reliable you are
- how well you work with the team
5. Pass a background check
If you do well in the interview, you will be required to submit a 5 year old federal background check.
This check will verify your employment history, criminal history and driving history. Generally, any misdemeanor within the past 3 years will disqualify you.
For positions that require driving, you must have at least 2 years of driving experience and your driver’s license must not have been revoked within the past 3 years.
How long does it take to be accepted by USPS?
Unfortunately, the USPS hiring process is not known for its efficiency or speed, however, there does appear to be a plan to speed it up.
It usually takes a few weeks to a month to get hired by USPS.
Interestingly, USPS employees report being hired after about 5 or 6 weeks. Still, there are some outliers waiting months to complete the process.
If you really want to get hired by USPS, it’s important to be persistent, patient, and follow up.
Why does USPS take so long to hire?
Getting hired at the post office takes a long time due to assessments and background checks.
Although the evaluation time is short, it may take a while for USPS to provide the test information to you.
Likewise, background checks are easy to submit but can take weeks to return.
Is it difficult to get hired at USPS?
As long as you have a clean driving record, a relatively clean criminal record, and good test scores, you shouldn’t have much trouble finding a job with the USPS.
According to current USPS employees, the hard part is not getting the job, but keeping it.
Working at the USPS (especially as a mail carrier) can mean long hours, unpredictable work schedules, and a lot of physical demands.
Still, if you can handle the less glamorous aspects of your job, you’ll have a well-paying, secure position.
To learn more, you can also read our posts on the USPS Job Search Checklist, USPS 90-Day Probationary Periods, and USPS Seasonal Jobs.
in conclusion
A USPS job is a safe, rewarding job that many people aspire to do. While it doesn’t take much training or experience to get the job, it does require patience to get through the process.
