Can You Work at the Post Office with a Felony?
The United States Postal Service (USPS) is one of the largest employers in the country, with over 500,000 employees nationwide. While the USPS does not discriminate against individuals with felony convictions, there are certain restrictions and considerations that apply to hiring and employment.
Background Check and Security Clearance
Before being hired by the USPS, all applicants must undergo a thorough background check, which includes a review of their criminal history. Felony convictions can significantly impact an applicant’s chances of being hired. In fact, the USPS has a policy of not hiring individuals with certain types of felony convictions, including:
• Felony crimes involving theft, fraud, or dishonesty
• Felony crimes involving violence or threats of violence
• Felony drug-related offenses
However, the USPS does consider factors such as:
• The nature and severity of the offense
• The time elapsed since the conviction
• The applicant’s rehabilitation and efforts to reform
Post Office Jobs That May Be Available
While certain jobs at the post office may be off-limits due to felony convictions, there are still many opportunities available. Some examples include:
• Mail Carrier: This is one of the most common jobs at the post office, and it typically requires a high school diploma and a valid driver’s license.
• Window Clerk: Window clerks work at post offices and are responsible for selling stamps, processing mail, and assisting customers.
• Maintenance Worker: Maintenance workers are responsible for keeping post offices clean and in good repair.
• Data Entry Clerk: Data entry clerks work in an office setting and are responsible for entering data into computer systems.
Table: Post Office Jobs That May Be Available
| Job Title | Requirements | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Mail Carrier | High school diploma, valid driver’s license | High |
| Window Clerk | High school diploma, basic math skills | Medium |
| Maintenance Worker | High school diploma, physical ability | Medium |
| Data Entry Clerk | High school diploma, basic computer skills | Medium |
The Hiring Process
The hiring process for the USPS typically involves several steps:
- Application: Candidates must submit an application online or in person at a local post office.
- Assessment: Candidates who meet the minimum qualifications may be invited to take an assessment, which tests their skills and knowledge.
- Interview: Candidates who pass the assessment may be invited to an interview with a hiring manager.
- Background Check: Candidates who are offered a job must undergo a thorough background check before starting work.
Conclusion
While having a felony conviction can make it more challenging to find employment at the post office, it is not impossible. By highlighting your skills and qualifications, and being honest about your criminal history, you may still be able to find a job at the USPS. It’s essential to research the specific job requirements and hiring process for the USPS to determine which positions may be available to you.
Additional Resources
- United States Postal Service (USPS) – www.usps.com
- USPS Hiring Process – www.usps.com/careers/hiring-process.htm
- USPS Job Requirements – www.usps.com/careers/job-requirements.htm
By understanding the hiring process and job requirements for the USPS, individuals with felony convictions can increase their chances of finding employment at the post office.
