Mail baggage handler
A mail baggage handler is responsible for handling and processing mail and packages at a postal facility or sorting center. Their duties may include:
- Sorting and categorizing mail and packages: Mail baggage handlers sort and categorize mail and packages by destination, type, and priority to ensure they are delivered to the correct location.
- Loading and unloading mail and packages: Handlers load and unload mail and packages from trucks, planes, and other vehicles, as well as from conveyor belts and sorting machines.
- Operating sorting machines: Mail baggage handlers operate sorting machines, such as automated package sorters and mail sorters, to sort and process mail and packages.
- Hand-sorting mail and packages: Handlers may also hand-sort mail and packages that cannot be sorted by machine, such as packages that are too large or irregularly shaped.
- Tracking and tracing packages: Handlers track and trace packages to ensure they are delivered to the correct location and to resolve any issues that may arise during transit.
- Maintaining a clean and organized workspace: Mail baggage handlers are responsible for maintaining a clean and organized workspace, including the sorting area, conveyor belts, and storage areas.
- Meeting productivity and quality standards: Handlers are expected to meet productivity and quality standards, which may include processing a certain number of pieces of mail or packages per hour, and ensuring that mail and packages are sorted and delivered accurately and on time.
Mail baggage handlers may work in a variety of settings, including:
- Postal facilities: Mail baggage handlers work in postal facilities, such as post offices, sorting centers, and distribution centers.
- Airports: Handlers may work at airports, sorting and processing mail and packages for international and domestic flights.
- Logistics and transportation companies: Some mail baggage handlers work for logistics and transportation companies, handling and processing mail and packages for a variety of clients.
- E-commerce companies: With the rise of online shopping, mail baggage handlers may also work for e-commerce companies, handling and processing packages for online retailers.
The skills and qualifications required to become a mail baggage handler may include:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Ability to lift and move heavy packages (up to 70 pounds)
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with frequent deadlines
- Basic math skills and attention to detail
- Ability to work in a team environment
- Basic computer skills and familiarity with sorting machines and software
- Ability to work varying shifts, including evenings and weekends
Mail baggage handlers typically work in a warehouse or industrial setting, and may be required to work in a fast-paced environment with frequent deadlines. The job can be physically demanding, requiring the ability to lift and move heavy packages, and may also require working in a team environment and meeting productivity and quality standards.