Postal Service Mail Sorters, Processors, and Processing Machine Operators Salary Guide 2025: $58,470 Median
Postal Service mail sorters, processors, and processing machine operators earned a median salary of $58,470 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The mean wage is $59,430, or about $28 per hour. The typical range for workers in this occupation falls between $45,530 (10th percentile) and $75,280 (90th percentile). About 105,200 people were employed in this role nationwide.
How much Postal Service Mail Sorters, Processors, and Processing Machine Operators earn
The median annual wage for this occupation is $58,470, with the middle half of workers earning between roughly $45,530 and $75,280. Starting pay at the 10th percentile is $45,530, while experienced workers at the 90th percentile earn $75,280 or more. The average hourly wage works out to about $28.57.
Wages can vary significantly by employer and location. The federal government (USPS) is the primary employer, and pay is largely set by union contracts and step increases. Overtime opportunities are common, especially during peak seasons like December.
Pay by state
Pay for these workers varies by state. The District of Columbia has the highest average annual wage at $66,750, followed by South Dakota at $61,570, and Iowa, New Jersey, and Wyoming each at $60,530. On the lower end, Kansas averages $54,540, Georgia $53,290, and Indiana $48,880.
These differences reflect local cost of living, union contracts, and the distribution of mail processing facilities. For example, high pay in D.C. may be tied to federal premium pay, while South Dakota's relatively high wage is unusual for the region.
How to become Postal Service Mail Sorters, Processors, and Processing Machine Operator
To get hired as a mail sorter or processing machine operator for the U.S. Postal Service, you generally need to be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, at least 18 years old (or 16 with a high school diploma), and pass a drug test and criminal background check. A high school diploma or equivalent is typically required. Many positions start as temporary or part-time and convert to full-time later.
- Apply on the USPS career website (usps.com/careers) when openings are posted. Jobs are listed by location and craft.
- Take the USPS Postal Exam (e.g., 473 or 474 for mail processing). The test covers address checking, memory, and forms completion. Scores determine hiring eligibility.
- Complete a structured interview and background check. If selected, you'll undergo paid on-the-job training, usually lasting a few weeks.
- No prior experience is required, but qualities like attention to detail, ability to stand for long periods, and willingness to work nights, weekends, and holidays are key.
Job outlook
Employment for Postal Service mail sorters, processors, and processing machine operators is projected to decline 8.4% from 2024 to 2034, losing about 8,800 jobs. Despite the decline, about 7,800 openings are expected each year on average, mostly due to workers retiring or leaving the occupation.
The decline reflects automation of mail sorting and the long-term shift to digital communication reducing mail volume. Competition for openings will be strong, and job prospects will be best for those willing to relocate or work non-traditional hours.
Frequently asked questions
What is the starting salary for a Postal Service mail sorter?
Entry-level workers at the 10th percentile earn about $45,530 per year, though actual starting pay depends on location and union step. Many start as part-time or temporary clerks.
What education is required to become a mail processing machine operator?
A high school diploma or equivalent is the typical minimum. No college degree is needed, but you must pass the USPS postal exam and a background check.
Is the job of mail sorter being phased out?
Employment is declining (-8.4% projected 2024-2034) due to automation and lower mail volume. However, thousands of openings still occur each year due to turnover.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Postal Service Mail Sorters, Processors, and Processing Machine Operators data.