About the position
The Rural Carrier Associate (RCA) position at the United States Postal Service (USPS) involves providing essential mail delivery services along a designated rural route. This role is part-time and requires flexibility, as RCAs must be available to work on an as-needed basis, particularly to cover for regular carriers during their absences. The position is non-career but may lead to a career position within the USPS. The primary responsibilities include sorting mail in delivery sequence, loading mail into a vehicle, and delivering mail to customers on a regular schedule. RCAs are also responsible for collecting mail from roadside boxes, selling postal products such as stamps and money orders, and providing routine information to customers regarding postal services. In addition to mail delivery, RCAs must maintain accurate records, prepare daily trip reports, and ensure the security of the mail at all times. The job requires physical stamina, as it involves prolonged standing, walking, and the ability to handle heavy containers of mail weighing up to 70 pounds. The work environment is both indoors and outdoors, exposing employees to various weather conditions. Successful candidates must demonstrate a commitment to customer service and maintain a professional appearance while interacting with the public. Candidates must possess a valid state driver's license and have a safe driving record, with at least two years of unsupervised driving experience. The position also requires passing a pre-employment drug screening and meeting medical suitability and background check requirements. The USPS offers a competitive hourly wage of $20.38, with benefits including health insurance, paid training, and a flexible schedule. This role is ideal for individuals seeking entry-level employment with the potential for career advancement within the postal service.
Responsibilities
- Sorts mail in delivery sequence for the assigned route.
- Receives and signs for accountable mail.
- Loads mail in vehicle.
- Delivers mail to customers along a prescribed route and on a regular schedule by a vehicle; collects monies and receipts for accountable mail; picks up mail from customers' roadside boxes.
- Sells stamps, stamped paper and money orders; accepts C.O.D., registered, certified, and insured mail and parcel post; furnishes routine information concerning postal matters and provides requested forms to customer.
- Returns mail collected, undeliverable mail, and submits monies and receipts to post office.
- Prepares mail for forwarding and maintains records of change of address information.
- Prepares a daily trip report and maintains a list of the customers on the route.
- Conducts special surveys when required.
- Maintains an inventory of stamps and stamped paper as needed to provide service to customers on the route.
- Provides for mail security at all times.
Requirements
- Must have a valid state driver's license.
- Must have a safe driving record.
- At least two years of unsupervised experience driving passenger cars or larger.
- Must be able to communicate in and understand the English language.
- Must pass a pre-employment drug screening.
- Must meet medical suitability and background check requirements.
Nice-to-haves
- Experience in customer service roles.
- Familiarity with postal services and products.
Benefits
- Paid training
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Flexible spending account
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
- Flexible schedule
