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Mail Handler Assistant Jobs in Portland, OR (NOW HIRING)

Mail Handler Assistant information

See Portland, OR salary details

$30.2K

$47.1K

$56.2K

How much do mail handler assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for mail handler assistant in Portland, OR is $47,052.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,500.00 and $50,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a mail handler assistant?

A mail handler assistant performs a variety of duties related to loading and unloading mail deliveries. In this career, you process parcels and letters, sort them for delivery, and maintain postal worker equipment, such as mail bags or delivery boxes that go on delivery trucks. Qualifications for the job include a mix of career experience and skills. You should have a high school diploma or GED certificate, the ability to follow directions closely, a keen eye for organization and detail, and physical stamina.

What is a mail handler assistant?

A Mail Handler Assistant (MHA) is a non-career, entry-level position within the United States Postal Service (USPS). MHAs are responsible for loading, unloading, and moving mail and packages in postal facilities. They operate sorting machines, transport mail across the work floor, and help prepare large volumes of mail for distribution. This role is physically demanding and often requires working nights, weekends, and holidays. MHAs are typically hired on a temporary basis, but the position can serve as a stepping stone to permanent postal employment.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mail handler assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mail Handler Assistant, you need physical stamina, attention to detail, and basic literacy, with a high school diploma or equivalent typically required. Familiarity with mail sorting machines, conveyor belts, and barcode scanners is important for efficient processing. Strong teamwork, time management, and reliability are valuable soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring timely and accurate handling of mail in a fast-paced postal environment.

What are the typical challenges faced by a mail handler assistant, and how can they be managed effectively?

Mail Handler Assistants often face challenges such as working in fast-paced environments, handling heavy packages, and maintaining accuracy under tight deadlines. The work can be physically demanding, especially during peak mailing seasons. To manage these challenges, it's important to use proper lifting techniques, stay organized, and communicate effectively with team members. Adapting quickly to workflow changes and seeking guidance from experienced colleagues can also help new hires succeed in this role.

How many hours does a mail handler assistant work?

A mail handler assistant typically works full-time hours, which are usually around 40 hours per week, often scheduled during regular daytime shifts. Overtime may be required during peak mailing seasons, and schedules can include evenings or weekends depending on operational needs.

Is being a mail handler assistant worth it?

A mail handler assistant is responsible for sorting, processing, and distributing mail in postal facilities, often working in a fast-paced environment. The position typically offers full-time hours, benefits, and opportunities for advancement, making it a stable entry-level job in the postal service industry.

What are popular job titles related to Mail Handler Assistant jobs in Portland, OR?

For Mail Handler Assistant jobs in Portland, OR, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mail Handler Assistant jobs in Portland, OR look for?

The top searched job categories for Mail Handler Assistant jobs in Portland, OR are:

What cities near Portland, OR are hiring for Mail Handler Assistant jobs?

Cities near Portland, OR with the most Mail Handler Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Mail Handler Assistant job openings in Portland, OR as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,052 per year, or $22.6 per hour.

KITCHEN AND UTILITIES ASSISTANT - BAKERY

Portland, OR • On-site

MEALS ON WHEELS PEOPLE INC
Non-Profits • 51 - 200 employees

$17.50 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 3 days ago

New


Job description

Meals on Wheels People is an organization founded in and by the community! Over the past 50 years, our non-profit has helped thousands of older adults in the Portland Metro area keep their independence through weekly meal delivery and social connections. Our culture reflects our five values: integrity, commitment, respect, inclusion, creativity, and TEAMWORK. With over 20 meal delivery centers throughout Multnomah, Washington, and Clark counties, our staff and thousands of volunteers ensure that no adult over 60 goes hungry or experiences social isolation.

Make a meaningful impact while working in a supportive and collaborative environment that values your well-being. Enjoy the benefits of a four-day workweek, ample quality time off, and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k)-retirement plan, pet insurance, a wellness program, professional development opportunities, an Employee Assistance Program, and mileage reimbursement.

We are seeking a Kitchen and Utilities Assistant, who will be the backbone of our Central Kitchen operations, ensuring the smooth and efficient flow of food preparation, baking and distribution. Your role will involve assisting in the creation of bakery items for distribution, food packaging and maintaining product accuracy in accordance to food production charts. Additionally, you will play a pivotal role in the logistics of receiving, distributing, and delivering food products and supplies. Upholding strict cleanliness and sanitation standards, as per State and Federal guidelines, will be a top priority in this role.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions)

  • Assist Baker with the production and preparation of bakery items for all senior dining menus

  • Responsible for the preparation of food products following standardized recipes and food production charts

  • Follows the directions for food preparation on the daily production charts

  • Ensures accuracy of food count for shipment to contract location

  • Follow direction for preparation of products according to the daily production charts and recipes

  • Ensure all products meet quality, quantity, and portioning standards under USDA guidelines

  • Complete cleanup of equipment and fixtures.  Clean carriers and coolers daily.  Clean loading walk-in daily.  Clean all loading areas inside and outside of the building.

  • Deliver food, supplies, inter-office mail, and equipment to dining centers or account location and place them in the proper area

  • Assist as needed with loading products onto the carriers for distribution.  Ensure that the correct quantities are distributed and product is properly labeled and sealed.  Check off and sign carrier tags on carriers for complete orders

  • Assist as needed with all freight orders for distribution to accounts and warehouse duties

  • Assist as needed in the dishwasher area

  • Maintain high cleaning and sanitation standards in compliance with food safety standards and operating procedures

  • Cross-train into other Central Kitchen departments

  • Other duties as assigned

Education & Knowledge

  • High school diploma or GED Certificate

  • Understanding and knowledge of safety, sanitation, and food handling procedures

  • Current Oregon Food Handler’s Certificate or ability to obtain within two weeks

Skills, Abilities & Experience

  • One-year experience in food assembly; high-volume food production preferred

  • Experience with ovens, knives, sealers, can openers, and rolling racks required

  • Ability to understand and communicate basic cooking directions

  • Basic math and computer skills

  • Ability to work well with others in a diverse team-oriented atmosphere

Any satisfactory combination of experience, training and/or education that ensures the ability to perform the work may substitute for the above qualifications.

Working Conditions/Physical Demands

  • Work with and around food production machinery (sealers, ovens, mixers, knives, etc.

  • Occasional environmental exposures to cold, heat, and water

  • High frequency of multiple repetitive movements, including bending, reaching, and stooping

  • The individual must be able to carry 50 pounds on occasion and up to 35 pounds regularly

  • Ability to stand for 8 hours a day or more

  • Candidate must successfully pass the Meals on Wheels People pre-employment drug & alcohol test and criminal background check

Disclaimer

The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not intended to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise; employment in this job is an “at will” employment relationship.

Applications must be completed fully (including references) in order to be considered.