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How to Become a Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Service in Illinois

Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Services in Illinois earn a median salary of $36,940/year, which is 3% below the national average. Illinois has a state income tax of ~5.0%. After taxes and rent, a mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal service takes home approximately $1,079/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$37K
Median salary in Illinois
-3%
vs. national average
5.0%
State income tax
3,480
Employed in Illinois

What a mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal service can afford in Illinois

Gross annual salary$36,940
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 5.0% state tax)$2,491/mo
Median 2BR rent (Illinois)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home56.7% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$36,940/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,079/mo

Becoming a mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal service in Illinois

1

Meet education requirements

Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Service positions in Illinois typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Illinois. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal service positions in Illinois require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain Illinois licensure or certification

Illinois may require specific licensing or professional certification for mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal services. Requirements vary by state — contact the Illinois Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in Illinois

Illinois employs 3,480 mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal services. The highest concentrations are in Chicago-Naperville-Elgin and Springfield.

Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Service salary by metro area in Illinois

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Chicago-Naperville-Elgin$37K$17.76/hr2,600
Springfield$36K$17.08/hr120
Champaign-Urbana$35K$17/hr90
Peoria$34K$16.12/hr80
Bloomington$33K$16/hr50

Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Service salary range in Illinois

10th percentile (entry)
$29K
25th percentile
$34K
Median (50th)
$37K
75th percentile
$42K
90th percentile (senior)
$50K
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Full mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal service salary breakdown in Illinois
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Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Service careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal service make in Illinois?

The median mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal service salary in Illinois is $36,940 per year ($17.76/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $38,150. Salaries range from $29,120 to $50,140.

What are the requirements to become a mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal service in Illinois?

Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Service positions in Illinois typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Illinois may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Illinois licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal service afford to live in Illinois?

At the median salary of $36,940, a mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal service in Illinois would take home approximately $2,491/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 56.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal services in Illinois?

The highest paying metro areas for mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal services in Illinois are Chicago-Naperville-Elgin ($36,940), Springfield ($35,520), Champaign-Urbana ($35,360). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does Illinois have state income tax for mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal services?

Yes, Illinois has a state income tax rate of approximately 5.0%. On a $36,940 salary, this means roughly $1,829/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.