USPS Postal Inspector Job Requirements

A U.S. Postal Inspector is a detective and law enforcement officer. Inspectors are required to have good management skills, detective skills and be in good physical condition. The hours are long and sometimes hard, but the job is rewarding.

Minimum Requirements

There are several minimum requirements to become a U.S. Postal Inspector. Candidates must: be between ages 21 and 36 with a valid driver's license; have a bachelor's degree (usually in criminal justice) with one year of work experience; have a professional certification such as certified public accountant; pass a background check; and have no felonies or misdemeanor domestic violence convictions.

Other Requirements

A U.S. Postal Inspector must be in good physical condition to be able to keep up with the demands of the job. Physical tasks might include climbing ladders, making arrests, performing searches, pursuing suspects on foot and self-defense.

Considerations

A U.S. Postal Inspector must be able to communicate well with other postal staff and customers, regardless of the situation, while remaining professional at all times.

Testing Requirements

U.S. Postal Inspectors must be drug free and pass a rigorous health examination. Certain health-related issues will disqualify a candidate.

Salary Expectation

The average salary for a Postal Inspector is $45,000.

References

• Postal Inspector Requirements