Letter Carriers


Business Management and Administration > Letter Carriers > Working Conditions
110400
100119
Letter Carriers

Letter Carriers - Working Conditions

In a typical work setting, mail carriers:

Interpersonal Relationships

  • Have a medium-high level of social contact. They often interact with members of the public.
  • Communicate with others through face-to-face discussions.
  • Are somewhat responsible for the health and safety of others.
  • May deal with unpleasant or angry individuals.

Physical Work Conditions

  • Often work outdoors. Work indoors when they pickup and drop off mail.
  • Always wear a special uniform.
  • Are sometimes exposed to very hot or very cold temperatures.
  • May be exposed to hazardous situations. These may include slippery roads and sidewalks or attacks by dogs.
  • [ More ]
  • May have to work in very bright or dim lighting, depending on the weather.
  • Sometimes are exposed to loud sounds or distracting noise levels.
  • Drive a mail truck or other vehicle while delivering and picking up mail.
  • May work physically near others, such as when hand-delivering mail.

Work Performance

  • Must fully complete and be very exact in their work.
  • Repeat the same physical activities.
  • Set their daily tasks and goals according to their route and the amount of mail that must be delivered.
  • Usually make decisions in conjunction with supervisors and customers.
  • [ More ]
  • Must meet daily deadlines.

Hours/Travel

  • May work early in the morning.
  • May work overtime hours during peak delivery times.
  • May work Saturdays.
  • Work schedules and routes that are established.
Source: Illinois Career Information System (CIS) brought to you by Illinois Department of Employment Security.