Description
Receive, sort, and distribute incoming and outgoing USPS mail and parcels within distribution centers and stations. Use scanning systems and routing schemes to direct items; bundle, label, and dispatch containers; maintain logs of shipments, pouches, and sacks; handle irregular pieces and redirects; operate basic sorting equipment and move mail in compliance with safety, security, and service standards.
- • Direct mail according to routing schemes using scanners and computer terminals.
- • Bundle, label, and route sorted mail to designated areas by established deadlines.
- • Assist in training new clerks on procedures, safety, and equipment use.
- • Distribute incoming mail into the correct boxes, cages, or pigeonholes.
- • Operate mailroom equipment such as bar-code scanners, labelers, and optical readers; monitor automated sorters.
- • Search directories and systems to find correct addresses for forwarded or undeliverable mail.
- • Clear simple jams and safely restart sorting equipment.
- • Inspect items to verify legible addresses, proper postage or documentation, and suitable condition for processing.
- • Open and label mail containers and update tray, sack, and pouch logs.
- • Rewrap or secure soiled, broken, or loose parcels.
- • Move containers of mail using carts, pallet jacks, or powered equipment.
- • Hand-sort odd-sized or exception mail and segregate items requiring special handling.
- • Load and unload mail trucks and transport containers to and from sorting stations.
- • Hand-cancel mail or apply date stamps as required.
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Public Service & Safety
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Tasks & skills:
O*NET occupational data (work activities, skills, knowledge).
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This site includes information from O*NET by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA), used under the CC BY 4.0 license. Career Clutch has modified some of this information for student readability. USDOL/ETA has not approved, endorsed, or tested these modifications. O*NET® is a trademark of USDOL/ETA.
Last reviewed: Jan 2026
