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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for a Postal Manager

💰 $55,000 - $85,000

ManagementOperations ManagementLogisticsSupply Chain

🎯 Role Definition

A Postal Manager is the operational and administrative leader of a post office or mail processing facility. This pivotal role involves overseeing all aspects of mail collection, sorting, processing, and delivery to ensure timely, accurate, and efficient service for the community or organization they serve. They are accountable for staff management, budget oversight, operational performance, and ensuring full compliance with all postal regulations and safety standards. The manager acts as the primary liaison between the postal service, its employees, and the public, driving a culture of excellence, safety, and customer satisfaction.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Assistant Postal Manager
  • Mail Carrier or Postal Clerk (with supervisory experience)
  • Logistics Supervisor
  • Operations Team Lead

Advancement To:

  • Regional Postal Operations Manager
  • Postmaster (at a larger, higher-level facility)
  • District Manager
  • Director of Logistics or Operations

Lateral Moves:

  • Operations Manager (Corporate or Manufacturing)
  • Logistics and Distribution Manager
  • Warehouse Manager
  • Facilities Manager

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Direct and coordinate all operational activities within the postal facility, including mail receipt, processing, sorting, dispatch, and final delivery to ensure service standards are consistently met or exceeded.
  • Develop, implement, and monitor daily operational plans and staff schedules to optimize workflow, manage labor costs, and ensure adequate coverage during peak and off-peak hours.
  • Manage and lead a diverse team of postal clerks, mail carriers, and sorters, providing coaching, training, performance evaluations, and disciplinary action when necessary to foster a productive and positive work environment.
  • Ensure strict adherence to all federal, state, and organizational postal regulations, safety procedures, and security protocols to safeguard mail, assets, and personnel.
  • Oversee the facility's budget, including monitoring expenditures, managing payroll, controlling operational costs, and preparing financial reports to ensure fiscal responsibility and profitability.
  • Analyze operational performance data, delivery metrics, and customer service feedback to identify trends, pinpoint areas for improvement, and implement strategic process enhancements.
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for customer inquiries, complaints, and escalations, resolving issues promptly and professionally to maintain high levels of customer satisfaction and public trust.
  • Manage the procurement, maintenance, and inventory of all facility equipment, vehicles, and supplies, ensuring that all tools are in proper working order and resources are available.
  • Conduct regular facility audits and safety inspections to identify potential hazards, ensure compliance with OSHA and internal safety standards, and promote a culture of safety among all staff.
  • Plan and coordinate the logistics of mail transportation, including scheduling vehicle routes, coordinating with transport contractors, and ensuring the timely dispatch of mail to other processing centers or delivery units.
  • Develop and maintain positive working relationships with large-volume business mailers, local community leaders, and other stakeholders to promote postal services and address community needs.
  • Investigate and report on operational irregularities, such as lost or damaged mail, security breaches, and employee misconduct, following established protocols to ensure a thorough and fair resolution.
  • Champion the adoption of new technologies, sorting equipment, and software systems, training staff on their use to improve efficiency, accuracy, and service capabilities.
  • Prepare and submit detailed administrative and operational reports to senior management, outlining key performance indicators, budgetary status, staffing levels, and strategic initiatives.
  • Administer all human resources functions at the local level, including recruitment, hiring, onboarding, and managing employee relations in accordance with union contracts and company policies.
  • Oversee the facility's retail operations, ensuring that customer service windows are properly staffed, stamp and supply inventories are managed, and all financial transactions are accurately recorded.
  • Implement marketing and sales initiatives at the local level to promote postal products and services, such as Priority Mail, Express Mail, and PO Boxes, to grow revenue streams.
  • Stay current with changes in postal laws, regulations, mailing standards, and industry trends to ensure the facility remains compliant and competitive.
  • Coordinate emergency response procedures for the facility, including plans for weather-related disruptions, power outages, or security threats, to minimize service interruptions and ensure staff safety.
  • Lead regular team meetings and communication sessions to disseminate important information, review performance goals, and gather feedback from front-line employees.
  • Manage the complete lifecycle of mail delivery routes, including route design, adjustments based on volume changes, and performance analysis to ensure equitable workloads and efficient delivery.
  • Oversee special mail handling procedures for certified, registered, insured, and international mail, ensuring all tracking and security requirements are meticulously followed.

Secondary Functions

  • Participate in district or regional-level planning meetings to contribute to broader operational strategies.
  • Represent the postal service at local community events, business fairs, and public meetings.
  • Mentor and develop high-potential employees for future leadership roles within the organization.
  • Assist in the testing and rollout of pilot programs for new services or operational procedures.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Operations Management
  • Logistics and Supply Chain Coordination
  • Budgeting and Financial Management
  • Staff Scheduling and Workforce Planning
  • Performance Metrics Analysis (KPI Tracking)
  • Regulatory Compliance (e.g., USPS, OSHA regulations)
  • Inventory Management (supplies, equipment)
  • Route Planning and Optimization
  • Proficiency in Postal-specific Software (e.g., sorting, tracking systems)
  • Facility Management and Maintenance Oversight
  • Knowledge of Collective Bargaining Agreements

Soft Skills

  • Leadership and Team Management
  • Problem-Solving and Decision-Making
  • Customer Service and Conflict Resolution
  • Communication (Written and Verbal)
  • Adaptability and Change Management
  • Time Management and Prioritization
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Attention to Detail
  • Strategic Thinking
  • Emotional Intelligence

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED Equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Bachelor's Degree

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Business Administration
  • Logistics
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Operations Management

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range: 5-7 years of progressive experience in postal, logistics, or operations environments, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or leadership capacity.

Preferred: Experience managing within a unionized workforce and a strong track record of improving operational metrics.

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