A mailroom clerk job description calls for an individual who is able to maintain a high level of organization in order to ensure that everyone gets the right mail—and that they get it on time. They work in hospitals, for corporate agencies and for federal and state government institutions.
Position Description
The mailroom clerk sorts incoming mail—typically via hand—and ensures that it is delivered to the correct employees in a timely fashion according to a set procedure.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities of a Mailroom Clerk
- Receives stacks of bundled mail from USPS mail carriers.
- Loads mail onto a cart which is taken throughout a facility for delivery to the proper employees.
- Picks up outgoing mail and packages for delivery to the USPS.
- Weighs items that will be mailed and affixes the proper postage.
- Records and reorders mailroom supplies.
- Trains other mail clerks on how to uphold policies and procedures.
- Answers employees’ questions regarding mailings, rates and more.
- Works closely with office receptionists and may be called upon to answer phones during breaks.
- Works directly with the USPS to ensure that employees have access to the postage and shipping items they need at all times.
Required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Possesses strong organizational and clerical skills in order to ensure that every package and letter is delivered to the correct individual on time.
- Demonstrates basic computer skills for the purposes of data entry and reordering supplies as necessary.
- Shows strong professional and communications skills for dealing with the USPS and other employees within the facility.
- Displays the ability to multitask and perform many different duties—such as delivering mail, collecting mail and answering questions—all at the same time.
- Shows the ability to lift up to 100 pounds to or from a mail cart.
Education and Experience
A mailroom clerk rarely needs any postsecondary education; a high school diploma or GED will typically suffice. However, in large corporations or when the duties of the job are expected to be intense, employers often prefer an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in some aspect of business. Candidates should have some customer service experience, and most of the training on how to use equipment, sort and deliver mail is provided on-the-job.
Work Environment
A mailroom clerk will work in a climate-controlled office environment and usually enjoys a 40-hour Monday through Friday workweek. In rare cases, office buildings will have mailrooms that run all weekend or all night; this may call for an individual to work odd hours or remain on-call. When large outgoing mailings are scheduled, the candidate may be asked to work some overtime. These individuals are often responsible for lifting heavy boxes that weigh up to 100 pounds; they may need to do this several times per day.
Salary
The average mail handler salary in the United States is $28,210 per year. This may be influenced by several factors including the size of the corporation for which the individual works, the amount of experience he or she has, and even his or her proficiency at the job. Those with the most education and the highest amount of experience can expect to earn upwards of $40,000 per year.
