I have worked at the Post Office back in Iowa for a couple of years as a mail-handler...I have taken the test and the important thing to consider while taking the test is being able to distinguish between different words or numbers, in other words, being able to read well. There are 'regulars' which the pay is high along with having great benefits, they don't work weekends and are not required to work holidays, then there are 'PTF's', the pay is almost similiar to the regulars' pay and most 'PTF's' generally also have certain benefits, but they do work weekends and holidays when posted to do so, then there are 'TE's', the pay is lower than the above two levels, required to work any specific days such as weekends and holidays, lastly, then there are 'casuals', the pay is the lowest of all the levels mentioned, yet still considered several dollars above the min. wage and required to work weekends and all holidays, and having a certain time assignment such as for only 6 months and two years assignments, meaning once the allotted time is up, they are out and new recruits take their place.
The one issue that I found to be true in a Postal work place is the 'high' volume of unneccessary stress...The United States Postal Service had one of the highest percentage for suicide, murder, domestic crimes, etc., but I tend to believe since the new Postal General took over awhile ago, this perhaps has gone down somewhat, although, in the Post Office where I worked at, there were two cases of two workers in my section that took their lives...it's always sad to see something like this happening, yet, I can see the 'why' of it or for it taking place...but I'm not in any position to discourage anyone from working at a Post Office, I'm sure each area is different and am confident that there have been great strides and improvements in the workplace that have been made...No way am I cutting down the 'image' of the U.S. Postal Service, there are a great deal of many good quality workers that do provide excellent services for all customers! Also, the penalties are severe if someone is caught 'pocketing' money from letters, cards, gifts, etc...one man was given up to 10 years confinement in prison for stealing 'one dollar' from a card....if you do your job right and in a timely fashion, then you shouldn't have any problem working in a Post Office or being a Mail Carrier!!
