Go to Page Section:
- USPIS Postal Inspector – Job Description
- USPIS Postal Inspector – Salary
- National Average Salary: $56,350
- Salary Information by State
- How to Become a USPIS Postal Inspector: Step-by-Step
- Step One – Meet Mandatory Age and Citizenship Requirements
- Step Two – Apply to Become a US Postal Inspector During the Open Application Period
- Step Three – Pass Required Tests and Assessments
- Step Four – Complete a Background Check
- Step Five – Pass a Drug Screen
- Step Six – Complete a Physical Fitness Test
- Step Seven – Complete Basic Postal Inspector Training
- Step Eight – Begin Your Postal Inspector Career
- Step Nine – Complete Mandatory Continuing Education and Training Courses
- USPIS Postal Inspector – Education
- USPIS Postal Inspector Licensing and Certification Requirements
- Job Outlook for USPIS Postal Inspectors
- Should You Become a USPIS Postal Inspector?
- Sources
- Frequently Asked Questions
The United States Postal Service’s law enforcement arm is one of the oldest federal agencies.
Specialized law enforcement agents work to protect the integrity of the US mailing system as USPIS Postal Inspectors.
USPIS postal inspectors are federal law enforcement agents tasked with safeguarding US mail from theft, misuse, and fraud and preventing hazardous materials from being sent through the public mailing system.
Does crime fighting behind the scenes of America’s mailing system to uncover identity theft, mail fraud, misuse, and intercepting dangerous packages containing hazardous materials as a law enforcement officer sound like your ideal career?
Becoming a USPIS Postal Inspector could be the right career for you!
Find out more about what USPIS Postal Inspectors do, how much they earn, and what it takes to become a US Postal Service law enforcement agent in the step-by-step guide below.
USPIS Postal Inspector – Job Description
Becoming a United States Postal Inspector is no easy task.
It is a tough job that requires a commitment to solving problems and maintaining the physical fitness levels needed to track down, apprehend, and arrest federal mail criminals and fraudsters.
USPIS Postal Inspectors are appointed to their designated roles after completing the application, training, and physical fitness requirements.
Appointments span the United States, and some inspectors receive international appointments.
The ultimate goal of a USPIS Inspector is to facilitate the safe delivery of mail and packages routed through the US Postal system.
Americans rely on highly skilled and well-trained Postal Inspectors to intercept dangerous packages and fight mail crime.
Individuals and organizations seek the help of inspectors to resolve issues with stolen mail, packages and to thwart mail fraud schemes.
USPIS Postal Inspector Job Duties:
- Investigating Mail Crimes, Mail Fraud, Package Theft, Identity Theft
- Apprehending Criminals and Making Arrests in Federal Cases
- Working with State, Federal, and Local Agencies to Solve Mail Crimes
- Providing Public Education and Awareness about Mail Security and Fraud Prevention
USPIS Postal Inspector – Salary
USPIS Postal Inspectors’ salaries are comprised of base pay, medical benefits, dental benefits, and bonuses that make up their total federal compensation packages.
Online salary data reports show that USPIS Postal Inspectors are well-paid mail enforcement officials who earn an average annual salary of around $82,390 per year.
Higher-earning Postal Inspectors with specialized skills and more years of experience in the role can bring in as much as $104,599,09 per year.
Entry-level Postal Inspectors, those with lesser experience, and those working in smaller towns and rural areas may fall on the lower end of the earnings scale which begins at around $60,883 annually.
National Average Salary: $56,350
Salary Information by State
| State | Employed | Avg. Annual Salary | Avg. Hourly Pay | Top 10% Annual Salary | Bottom 10% Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | 1,240 | $55,020 | $26.45 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Alaska | 270 | $52,540 | $25.26 | $71,840 | $38,940 |
| Arizona | 1,990 | $55,030 | $26.46 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Arkansas | 660 | $56,360 | $27.10 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| California | 12,340 | $57,640 | $27.71 | $71,910 | $41,700 |
| Colorado | 2,150 | $56,360 | $27.10 | $71,910 | $41,700 |
| Connecticut | 1,200 | $58,170 | $27.97 | $71,910 | $41,700 |
| Delaware | 470 | $56,190 | $27.02 | $71,910 | $41,700 |
| D.C. | 500 | $59,990 | $28.84 | $71,910 | $41,700 |
| Florida | 7,490 | $55,800 | $26.83 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Georgia | 3,040 | $55,590 | $26.72 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Hawaii | 480 | $55,500 | $26.68 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Idaho | 220 | $58,930 | $28.33 | $71,910 | $41,700 |
| Illinois | 6,350 | $56,140 | $26.99 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Indiana | 2,080 | $54,980 | $26.43 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Iowa | 1,210 | $57,520 | $27.66 | $71,910 | $41,700 |
| Kansas | 760 | $56,580 | $27.20 | $71,910 | $41,700 |
| Kentucky | 1,010 | $56,250 | $27.04 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Louisiana | 1,360 | $54,920 | $26.40 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Maine | 530 | $57,150 | $27.48 | $71,910 | $42,810 |
| Maryland | 2,620 | $57,160 | $27.48 | $71,910 | $41,700 |
| Massachusetts | 3,330 | $56,630 | $27.22 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Michigan | 4,180 | $56,050 | $26.95 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Minnesota | 2,340 | $56,010 | $26.93 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Mississippi | 400 | $54,390 | $26.15 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Missouri | 3,060 | $55,720 | $26.79 | $71,910 | $41,700 |
| Montana | 300 | $55,980 | $26.92 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Nebraska | 750 | $56,960 | $27.38 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Nevada | 900 | $56,210 | $27.02 | $71,840 | $42,810 |
| New Hampshire | 820 | $55,050 | $26.46 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| New Jersey | 4,670 | $58,240 | $28.00 | $71,910 | $41,700 |
| New Mexico | 450 | $53,970 | $25.95 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| New York | 9,460 | $56,990 | $27.40 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| North Carolina | 3,880 | $55,000 | $26.44 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| North Dakota | 280 | $56,870 | $27.34 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Ohio | 4,430 | $55,370 | $26.62 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Oklahoma | 850 | $56,580 | $27.20 | $71,910 | $41,700 |
| Oregon | 1,240 | $56,080 | $26.96 | $71,840 | $42,810 |
| Pennsylvania | 6,260 | $55,640 | $26.75 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Rhode Island | 700 | $55,730 | $26.80 | $71,840 | $38,940 |
| South Carolina | 1,520 | $54,140 | $26.03 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| South Dakota | 260 | $57,440 | $27.62 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Tennessee | 3,000 | $54,370 | $26.14 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Texas | 7,460 | $57,150 | $27.48 | $71,910 | $41,700 |
| Utah | 840 | $55,870 | $26.86 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Vermont | 150 | $59,060 | $28.39 | $71,870 | $42,810 |
| Virginia | 2,580 | $56,240 | $27.04 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Washington | 2,110 | $57,560 | $27.67 | $71,910 | $41,700 |
| West Virginia | 480 | $55,490 | $26.68 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Wisconsin | 1,740 | $56,790 | $27.30 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Wyoming | 140 | $56,490 | $27.16 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Guam | 40 | $57,860 | $27.82 | $71,840 | $41,700 |
| Puerto Rico | 800 | $52,540 | $25.26 | $70,740 | $41,700 |
Annual Average Salary: Top 10 States
The top earning state in the field is District of Columbia, where the average salary is $59,990.
These are the top 10 earning states in the field:
* Employment conditions in your area may vary.
How to Become a USPIS Postal Inspector: Step-by-Step
Becoming a USPIS Postal Inspector requires a commitment to stamping out mail crimes and completing mandatory hiring requirements before being appointed to the role.
Prospective applicants should read the application and acceptance requirements on the USPIS website carefully.
This position has stringent hiring requirements that must be met before your US Postal Inspector application can be considered for an official appointment.
Use the following step-by-step guide to help you along your pathway to becoming a federal Postal Inspector in the US.
Step One – Meet Mandatory Age and Citizenship Requirements
Becoming a Postal Inspector requires prospective candidates to reach the minimum age range, which falls between 21-37 years of age.
Candidates within this age range must be US citizens to complete the application and training process to become inspectors.
Step Two – Apply to Become a US Postal Inspector During the Open Application Period
The US Postal Service maintains a limited number of Postal Inspectors to work in this highly specialized role. Aa such, they only accept applications during open enrollment periods.
Visit the USPIS career website to learn more about open recruitment periods and preliminary assessments needed to compete for the role.
Step Three – Pass Required Tests and Assessments
Aspiring Postal Inspectors must successfully pass a series of skills assessments which can include written exams, in-person interviews, virtual interviews, and background checks.
Step Four – Complete a Background Check
The nature of the role requires incoming inspectors to have a clear criminal history and will likely be required to pass a drug screen as a condition of pre-employment.
A background check can delve into previous employment history, criminal records, and driving records.
Step Five – Pass a Drug Screen
All prospective candidates for federal employment may be subjected to a mandatory drug screening as a condition of pre-employment.
Step Six – Complete a Physical Fitness Test
Postal Inspectors are required to demonstrate physical fitness as a component of their application and ongoing employment.
Basic fitness standards are determined by the US Postal Service and can be found on the USPIS career website.
Step Seven – Complete Basic Postal Inspector Training
If you’ve made it to this point – Congratulations!
You’re well on your way to beginning an exciting new career as a US Postal Inspector.
Candidates who successfully meet the requirements listed above and are selected by hiring officials must complete a mandatory basic training course that includes a 16-week program.
Incoming inspectors spend most of their time during this on-site training program learning the fundamentals of the job.
Residential training requires new inspectors to remain on campus during the entire training period as they are taught investigation techniques, USPS policy, how to conduct interviews, and to complete firearms and self-defense training.
Step Eight – Begin Your Postal Inspector Career
Completing the steps mentioned above readies new Postal Inspectors to begin working in an official capacity.
Inspectors may be assigned to specialized roles in American cites and states or they may accept international appointments where US Postal Inspectors go abroad to uncover international mail crimes leading back to the US.
Step Nine – Complete Mandatory Continuing Education and Training Courses
The role of a USPIS Postal Inspector is dynamic and ever-changing with the pace of crime and technology.
Active Postal Inspectors are required to complete mandatory continuing education coursework and job readiness training that can include the following:
- Firearms Qualification
- Hazardous Materials Training
- OSHA Safety Training
- Self-Defense Training
- Technology Training
- Weapons Training
Inspectors working in highly classified and confidential roles may also be required to periodically complete a Continued Service Agreement as a demonstration of their commitment to remain active in the role.
USPIS Postal Inspector – Education
Working as a US Postal Inspector requires incoming candidates to meet basic academic requirements which include successfully passing all test assessments, and exam with a minimum passing score.
Applicants must also pass background checks, drug screens, and driving records checks to as a condition of pre-employment.
Bachelor’s Degree Required
Postal Inspector hopefuls are required to have a Bachelor’s degree or higher level degree before becoming eligible for employment and internal training in the Basic Inspector Training Program.
The good news for Bachelor’s degree holders seeking to become Postal Inspectors is while degrees related to criminal justice and law enforcement are preferred, they are not required.
An eligible candidate for employment can hold a Bachelor-level degree in any field or discipline to be considered for the job.
Physical Education Is Required
Chasing down nefarious criminals across the US and internationally requires incoming recruits to demonstrate physical fitness and the ability to take on the many physical challenges that can come with the career.
Prospective candidates should be prepared to complete physical fitness assessments that can include timed push-ups, sit-ups, runs, and sustained aerobic activity to demonstrate their ability to ward off physical attacks, self defense skills, and applying basics levels of force when apprehending suspected criminals as a condition of USPIS Postal Inspector employment.
Firearms Training Is Required
USPIS Inspectors are federal law enforcement agents with arresting powers.
This means they must be trained and well-versed in the art of apprehending criminals and using appropriate levels of force.
Inspectors must also be trained on how to safely handle weapons, including handguns and shotguns typically used in the line of duty.
Self-Defense Training Is Required
The role of a Postal Inspector can mean crossing paths with some of America’s most dangerous and nefarious criminals.
As such, USPIS Inspectors are required to undergo mandatory self-defense training.
Inspectors are trained on specialized techniques to physically protect themselves and others in the line of duty.
USPIS Postal Inspector Licensing and Certification Requirements
While there are no official licensing or certification requirements needed to become a USPIS Inspector, there are rules, regulations, and standards that must be followed to become eligible for and complete the application process to receive an official assignment.
Becoming a federal law enforcement officer for the US Postal Service involves a multistep process where candidates are required to meet the basic standards and metrics outlined below:
- Must Be a United States Citizen
- Must Be Between the Ages of 21 and 36 Years Old at the Time of Appointment
- Must Hold a Bachelor’s Degree or Higher from an Accredited Institution
- Must Possess a Valid Driver’s License and a Clean Driving Record
- Must Successfully Pass a Background Check, Drug Screen, and Physical Examination
- Must Complete the Mandatory 16-week Basic Inspector Training Residential Program
- No Felony Convictions
- No Domestic Violence Convictions
New candidates should carefully review the checklist and current employment standards of the United States Postal Service website to ensure they can meet all mandatory employment requirements before beginning the application process.
The USPIS has stringent hiring requirements and standards that must be met to earn an official appointment.
Failing to meet the required standards may result in being eliminated as a potential USPIS Postal Inspector candidate.
Job Outlook for USPIS Postal Inspectors
Wondering what the job outlook is like for new Postal Inspectors in the US?
America’s BLS reports the job outlook for USPIS Postal Inspectors as competitive, but moderately stable.
Their Occupational Outlook Handbook shows that the need for general postal workers is slightly declining.
However, the need for specialized and highly skilled inspectors appears to remain constant.
Should You Become a USPIS Postal Inspector?
Now that you know more about the role of a USPIS Postal Inspector and how to become one, do you feel like this is the right career for you?
Deciding to become a federal law enforcement agent of the US Postal Service is a personal decision that requires weighing the pros and cons and determining if the role is a good fit for your skill level and personality type.
Consider the Following When Deciding If You Should Become a Postal Inspector:
Overall Job Satisfaction
Becoming a Postal Inspector is an amazing achievement for those who cut.
Postal Inspectors are typically lifelong career seekers who enjoy the thrill of the chase, thwarting mail fraud crimes, and taking down package thieves.
Career-oriented Postal Inspectors can experience high levels of job satisfaction in this mentally and physically demanding role as they work behind the scenes to secure America’s mail systems.
Average Salary
USPIS Postal Inspectors on all ends of the salary scale earn well-paying salaries.
Lower-earning inspectors bring in just over $60,000 per year, with top-earning agents collecting over $100,000 in 2023.
Job Growth Outlook
The job growth outlook for new Postal inspectors is highly competitive, which means new candidates may have to bring their A-game when preparing to apply.
However, the need for specialized Postal Inspectors remains constant as these behind-the-scenes law enforcement agents facilitate crime-free mail delivery for Americans.
Education Duration
How long does it take to complete Postal Inspector training?
The time it takes to complete Postal Inspector training and education requirements will vary by individual.
In general, prospective mail fraud examiners can expect to spend at least four years earning a Bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field.
Accepted candidates will be required to complete an in-person 16-week basic training course at a residential facility.
Personal Skills Needed
- Investigation and Analytical Skills
- Physical Fitness and Defensive Tactics
- Firearms and Weapons Training Skills
- Knowledge of Federal Law, Policies, Rules, Regulations
- High Levels of Personal Integrity and Ethical Decision-Making Skills
- Attention to Detail
- Ability to Overcome Mental Challenges
- Excellent Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Sources
USPIS Careers – Postal Inspectors
https://www.uspis.gov/careers/postal-inspectors
USPIS.gov
https://www.uspis.gov/about/what-we-do
USPIS Career Info – PDF
https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/GOVPUB-P-PURL-gpo172054/pdf/GOVPUB-P-PURL-gpo172054.pdf
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do you have to go to school to become a USPIS Postal Inspector?
While the timeframe for becoming an official Postal Inspector will vary by individual, it generally takes around four years to earn a Bachelor’s degree and an additional 16 weeks of basic training to become a Postal Inspector.
What skills do you need to become a USPIS Postal Inspector?
USPIS Postal Inspectors are specialized federal law enforcement officers that take on physically and mentally challenging roles.
Becoming an inspector means that prospective candidates already have or are willing to learn the skills below:
- Data Analysis and Research Skills
- Mental Toughness
- Firearms Training and Self-Defense Skills
- Physical Fitness Skills
- High Ethics and Integrity
- Problem-Solving Skills
- Knowledge of Federal Law
- Organizational Skills
- Criminal Justice Skills
Are USPIS Postal Inspectors in high demand?
Yes!
USPIS Postal Inspectors are currently in high demand across the United States.
The need for highly qualified inspectors to investigate and resolve issues with mail theft, identity theft, mail fraud and hazardous materials being sent through the mail is constant.
Visit the USPIS career site to learn more about current Postal Inspector jobs and updated application requirements.
What kind of education do you need to be a USPIS Postal Inspector?
You need a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution to be considered for avPostal Inspector appointment.
Accepted candidates will then complete on-the-job training at a residential training facility for 16 weeks.
How much money does a USPIS Postal Inspector make a year?
US Postal Inspectors make an average annual salary that falls between $60,000 and $104,599 per year.
Factors that can affect earnings include geographical location, years of experience on the job, and specialized training.
Leave a Reply