# Tasks & work activities — post office counter clerk

Source: O*NET 30.3, occupation 43-5051.00 (Postal Service Clerks).

## Task statements

- **[Core]** Weigh letters and parcels, compute mailing costs based on type, weight, and destination, and affix correct postage.
- **[Core]** Obtain signatures from recipients of registered or special delivery mail.
- **[Core]** Check mail to ensure correct postage and that packages and letters are in proper condition for mailing.
- **[Core]** Answer questions regarding mail regulations and procedures, postage rates, and post office boxes.
- **[Core]** Sort incoming and outgoing mail, according to type and destination, by hand or by operating electronic mail-sorting and scanning devices.
- **[Core]** Transport mail from one work station to another.
- **[Supplemental]** Keep money drawers in order, and record and balance daily transactions.
- **[Supplemental]** Register, certify, and insure letters and parcels.
- **[Supplemental]** Sell and collect payment for products such as stamps, prepaid mail envelopes, and money orders.
- **[Supplemental]** Complete forms regarding changes of address, or theft or loss of mail, or for special services such as registered or priority mail.
- **[Supplemental]** Provide assistance to the public in complying with federal regulations of Postal Service and other federal agencies.
- **[Supplemental]** Cash money orders.
- **[Supplemental]** Rent post office boxes to customers.
- **[Supplemental]** Put undelivered parcels away, retrieve them when customers come to claim them, and complete any related documentation.
- **[Supplemental]** Provide customers with assistance in filing claims for mail theft, or lost or damaged mail.
- **[Supplemental]** Respond to complaints regarding mail theft, delivery problems, and lost or damaged mail, filling out forms and making appropriate referrals for investigation.
- **[Supplemental]** Receive letters and parcels, and place mail into bags.
- **[Supplemental]** Feed mail into postage canceling devices or hand stamp mail to cancel postage.
- **[Supplemental]** Order retail items and other supplies for office use.

## Detailed work activities

- Arrange insurance coverage.
- Assist individuals with paperwork.
- Calculate shipping costs.
- Collect deposits, payments or fees.
- Deliver items.
- Execute sales or other financial transactions.
- Explain regulations, policies, or procedures.
- Load materials or equipment.
- Maintain financial or account records.
- Obtain written authorization to perform activities.
- Order materials, supplies, or equipment.
- Prepare documentation for contracts, transactions, or regulatory compliance.
- Prepare outgoing mail.
- Receive shipments.
- Refer customers to appropriate personnel.
- Respond to customer problems or complaints.
- Sell products or services.
- Sort mail.
- Store items.
- Verify shipping documentation.
- Weigh parcels to determine shipping costs.