Postal Service Mail Sorters, Processors, and Processing Machine Operators: Salary, Education, and Career Path (2026)
The U.S. has 111,930 postal service mail sorters, processors, and processing machine operators, and they earn a median of $56,530/year. The range runs from $43K to $74K. District of Columbia pays the most.
What it takes
The BLS lists the typical education for this role as varies by employer.
Entry-level postal service mail sorters, processors, and processing machine operators start around $43K. The gap between that and the median ($57K) is where experience, certifications, and location make the difference.
Top earners clear $74K, but that's the 90th percentile. Getting there usually takes a decade or more of experience, the right credentials, and being in a high-paying market.
Salary progression
Highest paying states
| State | Median salary | Employment |
|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $68K | 460 |
| Iowa | $60K | 1,050 |
| South Dakota | $60K | 230 |
| New Jersey | $60K | 4,090 |
| Wyoming | $60K | 120 |
| Kansas | $60K | 670 |
| North Dakota | $59K | 250 |
| Vermont | $59K | 130 |
| Nebraska | $59K | 660 |
| Washington | $57K | 1,960 |
Frequently asked questions
How much does a postal service mail sorters, processors, and processing machine operators make?▼
The median postal service mail sorters, processors, and processing machine operators salary in the United States is $56,530 per year ($27/hour). Entry-level positions start around $42,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $74,050.
What education do you need to become a postal service mail sorters, processors, and processing machine operators?▼
The BLS lists the typical entry-level education as varies by employer. State licensing or certification requirements vary, so check your state's board for specifics.
What is the job outlook for postal service mail sorters, processors, and processing machine operators?▼
Check the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook for the latest employment projections for postal service mail sorters, processors, and processing machine operators.
What are the highest paying states for postal service mail sorters, processors, and processing machine operators?▼
The highest paying states for postal service mail sorters, processors, and processing machine operators are District of Columbia ($67,830), Iowa ($59,550), South Dakota ($59,550), New Jersey ($59,550), Wyoming ($59,550). Salaries vary significantly by location due to cost of living and local demand.