Mail Processing Clerk in Pennsylvania Career Overview

As a Mail Processing Clerk, you play an essential role in the postal and logistics industry, ensuring the efficient handling and distribution of mail and packages. Your responsibilities encompass a variety of tasks that contribute to the smooth functioning of mail operations. Some key aspects of your role include:

  • Sorting and Routing: You are responsible for sorting incoming and outgoing mail and packages, using specialized equipment and manual processes. This ensures that items are sent to their correct destinations in a timely manner.

  • Processing Mail: You handle the processing of different types of mail, including letters, parcels, and bulk shipments. Your work helps maintain the flow of mail within the postal system.

  • Maintaining Equipment: Part of your job involves monitoring and maintaining the machines and equipment used in mail processing. You ensure that these tools function optimally to prevent delays.

  • Tracking and Record Keeping: You may be tasked with tracking mail and maintaining logs of incoming and outgoing items. This record-keeping is vital for accountability and traceability in mail distribution.

  • Collaborating with Team Members: Working closely with other clerks and mailroom staff is often part of your role. Effective communication and teamwork are key to handling high volumes of mail.

  • Adhering to Regulations: You ensure compliance with postal regulations and procedures. Understanding policies regarding mail security and safety is part of your responsibilities, as you contribute to the integrity of the postal system.

The role of a Mail Processing Clerk is integral to maintaining the flow of communication and commerce in society. Your contributions help facilitate connections between individuals, businesses, and organizations, making your position essential to the infrastructure of everyday life.

Mail Processing Clerk Salary in Pennsylvania

Annual Median: $58,550
Hourly Median: $28.15

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Mail Processing Clerk in Pennsylvania

To become a Mail Processing Clerk in Pennsylvania, you typically need to complete specific educational qualifications and training programs. Here are the recommended college degree programs that can help prepare you for this career:

  • Customer Service and Call Center Operations: This program equips you with skills in customer relations and effective communication, which are important for handling inquiries and processing mail efficiently.

  • General Office Occupations and Clerical Services: This broad program covers fundamental office skills, including typing, data entry, and general clerical duties essential for mail processing.

  • Receptionist: This training focuses on customer interaction and administrative tasks, providing a solid foundation for managing front-office responsibilities in a mail processing environment.

  • Administrative Assistant and Secretarial Science: This comprehensive program emphasizes office administration, record-keeping, and communication skills, all of which are valuable in a mail processing role.

  • Office Management and Supervision: This degree delivers insight into managing office operations and supervising staff, beneficial for those looking to advance in mail processing positions.

Completing any of these programs will enhance your knowledge and qualifications for becoming a Mail Processing Clerk.

Best Schools to become a Mail Processing Clerk in Pennsylvania 2024

#1Montgomery County

Sinclair Community College

Dayton, OH

In-State Tuition:$3,889
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,636
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:30%
Total Enrollment:17,591
#2Maricopa County

Rio Salado College

Tempe, AZ

In-State Tuition:$2,040
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,824
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:10%
Total Enrollment:17,078
#3Houston County

Central Georgia Technical College

Warner Robins, GA

In-State Tuition:$2,400
Out-of-State Tuition:$4,800
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:44%
Total Enrollment:9,683
#4Rapides Parish

Central Louisiana Technical Community College

Alexandria, LA

In-State Tuition:$3,335
Out-of-State Tuition:$3,335
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:70%
Total Enrollment:1,226
#5Calcasieu Parish

SOWELA Technical Community College

Lake Charles, LA

In-State Tuition:$3,335
Out-of-State Tuition:$3,335
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:40%
Total Enrollment:3,268
#6Orange County

Coastline Community College

Fountain Valley, CA

In-State Tuition:$1,104
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,664
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:23%
Total Enrollment:8,077
Mail Processing Clerk Job Description:
  • Perform any combination of tasks in a United States Postal Service (USPS) post office, such as receive letters and parcels; sell postage and revenue stamps, postal cards, and stamped envelopes; fill out and sell money orders; place mail in pigeon holes of mail rack or in bags; and examine mail for correct postage.
  • Includes postal service clerks employed by USPS contractors.

Mail Processing Clerk Required Skills and Competencies in Pennsylvania

  • Attention to Detail: You must carefully sort and process mail, ensuring accuracy in addressing and labeling to prevent misdeliveries.

  • Organizational Skills: Strong organizational abilities help you manage large volumes of mail efficiently, keeping the workflow smooth and timely.

  • Time Management: You will need to prioritize tasks effectively to meet deadlines and handle the demands of various mail processing activities.

  • Basic Computer Skills: Familiarity with computer systems and software used for tracking and processing mail is essential for success in this role.

  • Communication Skills: Clear communication is key, whether you’re coordinating with colleagues or addressing customer inquiries about mail deliveries.

  • Physical Stamina: You may be required to stand for long periods, lift heavy parcels, and perform repetitive tasks, so good physical endurance is important.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: The ability to quickly identify and resolve issues that may arise during mail processing is vital to maintaining efficiency.

  • Teamwork: Being able to work collaboratively with others in a busy environment enhances overall productivity and helps foster a positive workplace atmosphere.

  • Adaptability: You should be flexible and willing to adjust to changes in processes, technology, or workload as needed in a fast-paced setting.

  • Customer Service Orientation: A focus on providing excellent service impacts the overall satisfaction of customers, making strong interpersonal skills essential.

Job Duties for Mail Processing Clerks

  • Check mail to ensure correct postage and that packages and letters are in proper condition for mailing.

  • Sort incoming and outgoing mail, according to type and destination, by hand or by operating electronic mail-sorting and scanning devices.

  • Weigh letters and parcels, compute mailing costs based on type, weight, and destination, and affix correct postage.

Technologies and Skills Used by Mail Processing Clerks

Accounting software

  • Budgeting software

Operating system software

  • Microsoft Windows

Point of sale POS software

  • NCR Advanced Store

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Talking to others

Problem Solving

  • Noticing a problem and figuring out the best way to solve it

Job Market and Opportunities for Mail Processing Clerk in Pennsylvania

As a Mail Processing Clerk in Pennsylvania, you will find a job market that reflects both stability and ongoing demand for this essential role in the postal and logistics sectors.

  • Current Demand: The increasing volume of mail and packages due to e-commerce growth has led to a steady demand for Mail Processing Clerks. Businesses and individuals continue to rely on postal services, contributing to the need for efficient mail handling and processing.

  • Growth Potential: While automation is transforming some aspects of mail processing, the need for personnel to oversee and maintain these systems persists. Job openings may arise from both new positions created by expanding postal services and from turnover as existing clerks retire or move to different roles.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Philadelphia: As the largest city in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia has a significant concentration of postal facilities and distribution centers, offering many opportunities for Mail Processing Clerks.
    • Pittsburgh: This city serves as an important logistical hub with several postal service locations, making it another prime area for job seekers in this field.
    • Harrisburg: The state capital has numerous government offices and postal facilities that contribute to demand for skilled mail processing personnel.
    • Allentown and Reading: Both cities have growing populations and are experiencing increased postal service needs, creating additional job opportunities.

  • Seasonal Opportunities: Job openings often spike around the holiday season, as postal services manage higher volumes of mail. This seasonal demand allows for temporary positions that can lead to long-term employment.

In summary, the job market for Mail Processing Clerks in Pennsylvania is characterized by consistent demand, notable growth potential, and strong geographical prospects across key cities in the state.

Top Related Careers to Mail Processing Clerk 2024

Post Office Service Associate
Mail Distribution Specialist
Postal Operations Assistant
Customer Service Mail Clerk

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Mail Processing Clerk in Pennsylvania

  • United States Postal Service (USPS)
    Explore the official USPS website for information on job openings, application processes, and the latest news relevant to mail processing clerks.
    USPS Careers

  • Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry
    Access resources related to labor laws, regulations, job training programs, and workforce development in Pennsylvania.
    PA Department of Labor & Industry

  • Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
    Review national and state-specific data about job outlook, salary information, and employment statistics for mail processing clerks and related occupations.
    BLS Occupational Outlook

  • American Postal Workers Union (APWU)
    Visit the APWU's site for resources on worker's rights, benefits, and advocacy for postal employees.
    APWU Official Site

  • CareerOneStop
    A resource for job seekers that offers tools for exploring career options, finding training programs, and searching for job openings specific to mail processing and postal services.
    CareerOneStop

  • National Career Development Association (NCDA)
    Use the NCDA resources for career guidance, professional development opportunities, and networking for careers across various industries, including postal services.
    NCDA Resources

  • Job Corps
    This program provides resources for young individuals looking to gain skills and training, including opportunities in postal and administrative services.
    Job Corps

  • Penn State University’s Online Resources
    Explore Penn State’s initiatives and courses related to management and administrative roles that can benefit a mail processing career.
    Penn State Online

Using these resources, you can further understand the qualifications needed for a mail processing clerk, stay updated on industry trends, and find job opportunities in Pennsylvania.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Mail Processing Clerk in Pennsylvania

  • What does a Mail Processing Clerk do?
    A Mail Processing Clerk is responsible for sorting, processing, and distributing mail and packages within the postal service. This includes operating mail sorting machines, identifying and resolving any issues with mail items, and ensuring accurate tracking and delivery.

  • What are the minimum qualifications for becoming a Mail Processing Clerk in Pennsylvania?
    Typically, you need to be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and able to pass a background check. High school education or equivalent is generally required, along with basic computer skills and the ability to lift and carry packages.

  • What is the typical work environment for a Mail Processing Clerk?
    Mail Processing Clerks usually work in a fast-paced postal facility. The environment may involve standing for extended periods, working with heavy machinery, and handling various types of mail.

  • Are there opportunities for career advancement as a Mail Processing Clerk?
    Yes, there are opportunities for advancement within the postal service. You may move into supervisory roles, specialized positions, or other areas of the postal service with additional training and experience.

  • What skills are essential for a successful Mail Processing Clerk?
    Important skills include attention to detail, organizational abilities, time management, and basic technical proficiency. Strong communication and teamwork skills are also beneficial.

  • What is the average salary for a Mail Processing Clerk in Pennsylvania?
    The average salary can vary based on location, experience, and specific roles. As of recent data, the salary range typically falls between $35,000 and $50,000 annually.

  • What is the job outlook for Mail Processing Clerks in Pennsylvania?
    The job outlook is stable, though the field may see changes due to technological advancements and increasing automation. Employment opportunities may fluctuate based on the growth of e-commerce and shifts in postal services.

  • How can I apply for a position as a Mail Processing Clerk?
    You can apply through the United States Postal Service (USPS) careers website. It is advisable to create an account, complete the application, and articulate your skills and experience relevant to the position.

  • Is on-the-job training provided for new Mail Processing Clerks?
    Yes, new employees typically undergo a training program that includes both classroom instruction and hands-on experience in the postal facility.

  • What are the typical work hours for a Mail Processing Clerk?
    Work hours can vary, but shifts may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on the facility's operational needs.