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

Mail Clerks and Mail Machine Operators, Except Postal Services in Iowa earn a median salary of $36,980/year, which is 3% below the national average. Iowa has a state income tax of ~4.6%. After taxes and rent, a mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal service takes home approximately $1,094/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$37K
Median salary in Iowa
-3%
vs. national average
4.6%
State income tax
770
Employed in Iowa

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

Gross annual salary$36,980
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.6% state tax)$2,506/mo
Median 2BR rent (Iowa)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home56.3% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$36,980/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,094/mo

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

1

Meet education requirements

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

2

Gain required experience

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

3

Obtain Iowa licensure or certification

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

4

Find positions in Iowa

Iowa employs 770 mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal services. The highest concentrations are in Iowa City and Des Moines-West Des Moines.

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

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Iowa City$42K$20.29/hr30
Des Moines-West Des Moines$40K$19.16/hr340
Cedar Rapids$39K$18.82/hr30
Dubuque$37K$17.91/hr40
Davenport-Moline-Rock Island$37K$17.67/hr70

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

10th percentile (entry)
$23K
25th percentile
$30K
Median (50th)
$37K
75th percentile
$42K
90th percentile (senior)
$49K
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Full mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal service salary breakdown in Iowa
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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 Iowa?

The median mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal service salary in Iowa is $36,980 per year ($17.78/hr). This is 3% below the national median of $38,150. Salaries range from $23,030 to $48,650.

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

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

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

At the median salary of $36,980, a mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal service in Iowa would take home approximately $2,506/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 56.3% 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 Iowa?

The highest paying metro areas for mail clerks and mail machine operators, except postal services in Iowa are Iowa City ($42,200), Des Moines-West Des Moines ($39,850), Cedar Rapids ($39,140). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

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

Yes, Iowa has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.6%. On a $36,980 salary, this means roughly $1,683/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.