What is a postmaster relief?

A Postmaster Relief (PMR) is a temporary, part-time postal employee who fills in for the regular postmaster at a post office when they are absent. PMRs perform many of the same duties as the postmaster, such as sorting mail, selling postal products, providing customer service, and managing basic office operations. This position is common in smaller or rural post offices, where staffing needs fluctuate. PMRs ensure that essential postal services continue smoothly during the postmaster's leave or unavailability.