What is an assistant rural carrier?

Assistant Rural Carriers (ARCs) are part-time, non-career employees of the United States Postal Service who help deliver mail and packages along rural routes, especially on weekends and holidays. They provide support to regular and substitute rural carriers by filling in as needed, ensuring timely mail delivery in less populated or remote areas. ARCs often sort mail, load vehicles, and drive along designated routes, making them essential for maintaining consistent postal service in rural communities.