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Mail Handler Assistant Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Mail Handler Assistant information

See Reston, VA salary details

$29.6K

$46.2K

$55.1K

How much do mail handler assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for mail handler assistant in Reston, VA is $46,158.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,700.00 and $49,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Will the USPS hire a 55 year old?

The USPS generally does not have a maximum age limit for employment, and many positions, including Mail Handler Assistant, are open to applicants of all ages. Age discrimination is prohibited by law, and hiring decisions are based on qualifications and ability to perform the job. Experience and physical ability are important factors for this role.

What qualifications do you need to be a mail handler?

To become a mail handler, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a background check and drug screening. Physical stamina and the ability to lift heavy packages are important, and some positions may require prior experience with sorting or handling mail. Training is usually provided on the job.

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 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 does a mail handler assistant do?

A mail handler assistant helps sort, process, and distribute mail in postal facilities. They may operate sorting machines, handle packages, and ensure timely delivery, often working in a team environment with attention to detail and physical stamina. The role typically requires adherence to safety procedures and may involve working early or irregular hours.

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 postal service needs.

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 job categories do people searching Mail Handler Assistant jobs in Reston, VA look for? The top searched job categories for Mail Handler Assistant jobs in Reston, VA are:
What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Mail Handler Assistant jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Mail Handler Assistant job openings:
Infographic showing various Mail Handler Assistant job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,158 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Mail Center Security Specialist - Cleared

Mail Center Security Specialist - Cleared

RightDirection Technology Solutions

Springfield, VA

Other

Posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description

RDTS is seeking a Mail Center Security Specialist to support the Diplomatic Pouch and Mail (DPM) program at the U.S. Dept of State in Springfield, VA. Candidates must possess an active Security Clearance to qualify. This position is full-time, Monday-Friday, 6:30am-3:30pm, and available immediately.


Primary essential functions include, but are not necessarily limited to:

  • Perform x-ray security screening on all mail and cargo entering facility (unclassified and classified DPM pouch operations). Perform x-ray image interpretation to detect potential dangerous goods, hazardous devices and listed prohibited items.
  • Monitor the mail handling areas within the facility for mail security threats or vulnerabilities - report findings to DOS Management.
  • Successfully attend, obtain and maintain the certification for International Air Transport Association Accredited NON-Radioactive Dangerous Goods Training certification for IATA Category 3.
  • Successfully attend and complete the X-ray Security Screening Course (Government furnished) when provided.
  • Comply with the National Incident Management system basic training requirements to ensure compliance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive (HSPD-5) during domestic incidents at the facility.
  • Understand the fundamentals and application of the Department of State 14 FAM Exhibit 723.2 regulations as it pertains to Diplomatic Pouch and Mail Operations.
  • Understand the fundamentals and application of Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)/Safety Data sheets (SDS) and the Global Harmonization labeling System for OSHA HAZCOM as they pertain to identifying dangerous goods within the DPM mail stream.
  • Under the Oversight of DOS staff to include, where applicable depending on location, the Branch Chief, the Deputy Branch Chief, the Facility Industrial Hygienist and Bulk Supervisor / Pouch Control Officer, conduct duties as an extension of the designated Pouch Control Officer. The duties will include physical inspection of flagged parcels / pouches to determine if shipment is rejected or cleared for pouching. Scan parcel tracking numbers into Integrated Logistics Management System (ILMS) for comment input, record keeping and tracking. Perform recovery and mitigation on damaged or opened parcels.
  • Attain and maintain demonstrated understanding and proficiency in the use of first responder detection equipment (GFE) to include atmospheric air monitoring systems, radiological detectors, and chemical and biological detection systems. Technologies may include FTIR, RAMAN, PCR, Electrochemical cells.
  • Conduct field sample analysis of unknown or suspicious substances found within the confines of the Mail Facility to detect potential / presumptive Toxic Industrial Materials and Chemicals (TIM / TIC), Biological and Chemical Agents. Radiological sources and toxic gases or vapors.
  • Safely isolate and secure pouch safety or security violation items and suspicious letter mail. Conduct physical inspection, inventory and provide accurate documentation (to include photographing) of findings on generated incident reports.
  • Advise and instruct containment room mail handlers on secondary sample collection procedures during presumptive positive results and powder spills during receiving.
  • Direct containment room mail handlers to process through facility decontamination showers when necessary. Instruct containment room mail handlers to evacuate during emergencies. (Unclassified facility only).
  • Perform weekly bio threat surveillance sample analysis of parcel sorter machine (Unclassified facility only).
  • Utilize building Emergency Public Announcement systems when directed by DOS Management during emergencies. (Unclassified facility only).
  • Assist DOS management in initiating the Facility Emergency Action Plan and establishing incident command during emergencies.
  • Authorized to perform emergency duties during training, exercises, drills, or actual emergencies. These duties include, but are not limited to, response to assist employees during exercises/drills and emergencies, assist person with special needs, perform duties as a floor Warden or monitor, utilization of personal protective equipment, assumption of any of the assigned Incident Command General Staff positions, and other such duties as required during training, exercise, drills, and actual emergencies.
  • Responsible for lifting 70 lbs. heavy mail pouches and packages.
  • Work may be performed in the unclassified and classified pouch facilities as personnel schedules and operational needs dictate.

Requirements

  • Possess an active Security Clearance.
  • Working knowledge of DoS and Federal Regulations addressing mail and package handling.
  • Two years of relevant work experience (passing score on proficiency test with detection screening equipment may be used as substitute for experience).
  • Demonstrated working knowledge of key mail and parcel screening components and experience in troubleshooting and maintaining equipment.
  • Possess basic aptitudes and physical abilities including color perception, visual and aural acuity, physical coordination, and motor skills to perform all required tasks.
  • Proficient in standard Microsoft Office suite of software.
  • Knowledge and understanding of response actions to possible incidents involving explosives, hazardous materials, biological agents, and chemicals.
  • Successfully complete mandatory training and required certifications to use all detection equipment.
  • Must be able to lift up to 70LBS


All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, marital status, pregnancy, genetic information, or other legally protected status.