Short Video
Watch this brief three minute video about training.
Mail Carrier (Rural) – Postal Service
Embrace the Countryside: Deliver Mail in Scenic Rural Areas
Rural Carrier Associates (RCAs) are responsible for delivering mail in less densely populated regions, often referred to as the “heart of America.”
These roles offer the most competitive starting wages among entry-level positions within the postal service, with salaries ranging from $17.76 to as much as $27.54, depending on the location.
A significant number of both City and Rural Carriers began their careers as Rural Carrier Associates, a flexible opportunity available as either a full-time or part-time role.
These dedicated postal employees play a crucial role in our communities and command considerable respect. Many find the job so fulfilling that they choose to make it their lifelong career.
If you crave fresh air, a sense of adventure, and a chance to be your own boss, then a career as a Rural Mail Carrier might be perfect for you.
Duties and Responsibilities:
- The Rural Mail Carrier is responsible for sorting mail of all classes in delivery sequence for the assigned route.
- The Rural Mail Carrier manages undeliverable mail according to postal regulations and laws.
- The Rural Mail Carrier delivers mail to residences along an assigned route using a personal vehicle (must meet USPS specifications).
- The Rural Mail Carrier tracks deliveries as instructed using a portable electronic scanner.
- The Rural Mail Carrier is responsible for collecting monies and receipts for custom fees, postage-due and C.O.D items (may vary by route).
- The Rural Mail Carrier provides customers with change of address and other postal forms as required, as well as general postal information.
- The Rural Mail Carrier maintains accurate records of deliveries and collections.
- The Rural Mail Carrier may perform general clerical duties.
Functional Purpose
Responsible for collecting and delivering mail using a personal vehicle along an assigned rural route; maintaining effective public relations with customers; possessing a basic understanding of common postal regulations, laws, products and services; and having a general familiarity of the assigned route.
Employment Requirements
- Must be 18 years old or 16 years old with high school diploma.
- Must be US citizen, permanent resident, or citizen of American Samoa or other US territory.
- Ability to pass criminal background check, drug screening, and medical assessment.
- Valid state driver’s license with a clean driving record. Must meet safe driving requirements established by the USPS.
- Ability to operate and maintain a personally-owned vehicle that meets USPS specifications (right-hand drive optional).
- Must be registered with Selective Service (if applicable).
Salary Range
Up to $28 per hour (varies based on route evaluation)
Examination Requirements
Candidates must successfully complete and receive a pass rating of the Rural Carrier Assessment (RCA) exam. When the candidate is invited to take the assessment, directions will be provided via email.
Background Check
Same as Mail Carrier (City).
Physical Requirements
Candidates are required to be physically able to perform the duties of the position in an efficient manner with or without reasonable accommodation. Duties may include lifting mail trays weighing up to 70 lbs, frequent bending, reaching, and maneuvering within a vehicle.
Am I Qualified to work for the Postal Service?
U.S. Citizen or Green Card
High School Diploma or GED
18 Years of Age or Older
No Experience Required
You’re Qualified!
What’s included with your registration package?
To help you get hired as soon as possible by the Postal Service when you register,
you will get full and immediate access to all of the following:
- Complete Guide: A detailed, step-by-step guide to navigating the Postal Service hiring process, including the employment application.
- Personal Job Counseling: Full access to personal job counseling tailored to Postal Service employment.
- Sample Exam Questions & Answers: Simulated practice exams with in-depth answer explanations.
- Full Access to Job Openings: Job finder tool with a map of USPS jobs within a 25-mile radius.
- Salary Gradings: A breakdown of salary gradings for all roles, plus insights into promotion potential for each position.
- BONUS: Job alerts to notify you when new postal positions are available.
- Ace-Interview: Exclusive interview webinar packed with success tips.
To get started:
Complete Registration
Registration Package
$69
One-time installment with a FULL refund if you are not hired