New RCA in Training with Questions
- Thread starter milkymint
- Start date
D.B.Cooper
Active member
<blockquote class="spPostEmbedQuote"><strong>milkymint said </strong>
...Maybe you have all taught me too much too soon. ;-)
I also want to say... that I think people assume I'll quit because I won't be able to tough it out. But they are WRONG! I've never quit anything...</blockquote>
Okay, so how's the new RCA thing going for you Milky Way?? <img title="Laugh" alt="Laugh" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-laugh.gif" />
Long time no hear from... inquiring minds wanna know... did any of our predictions and or advice pan out for ya??? <img title="Confused" alt="Confused" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-confused.gif" />
...Maybe you have all taught me too much too soon. ;-)
I also want to say... that I think people assume I'll quit because I won't be able to tough it out. But they are WRONG! I've never quit anything...</blockquote>
Okay, so how's the new RCA thing going for you Milky Way?? <img title="Laugh" alt="Laugh" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-laugh.gif" />
Long time no hear from... inquiring minds wanna know... did any of our predictions and or advice pan out for ya??? <img title="Confused" alt="Confused" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-confused.gif" />
<blockquote class="spPostEmbedQuote"><strong>D.B.Cooper said </strong>
<blockquote class="spPostEmbedQuote"><strong>milkymint said </strong>
...Maybe you have all taught me too much too soon. ;-)
I also want to say... that I think people assume I'll quit because I won't be able to tough it out. But they are WRONG! I've never quit anything...</blockquote>
Okay, so how's the new RCA thing going for you Milky Way?? <img title="Laugh" alt="Laugh" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-laugh.gif" />
Long time no hear from... inquiring minds wanna know... did any of our predictions and or advice pan out for ya??? <img title="Confused" alt="Confused" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-confused.gif" /> </blockquote>
<span style="background-color: inherit">Haha! Okay, here is a little update.
</span>
<span style="background-color: inherit">Yesterday I finished my last day of training on my route and this morning I'll be doing it solo for the first time.</span>
I've been extremely busy, working 11-13 hours each day. I've had one day off in the last 2 weeks, and that was Christmas.
A few things I've learned: my office has 70+ routes, and only ONE SINGLE city route. It's all just rural carriers, and everyone seems very nice and helpful to one another. Before I even knew how to use a scanner or really drive an LLV, they made me work Amazon Sunday. It took me 6 hours to complete a 5 hour route, and they were NOT happy about it. One supervisor has made it a point to remind me how slow I am, while many of the seasoned carriers have told me I'm doing very well as a newbie. My regular is a nice guy. While everyone seems to really get along, I can tell people aren't happy with the supervisors. One in particular, the top guy, seems to be the one who does the bare minimum. If I ask him a question, I get a vague answer. The other 3 supervisors I've met are nice and helpful.
I already feel like a machine and not a person. I barely see my boyfriend, my dogs, and feel like I'm never home. But working hard feels really good at the end of the day.
Sadly, it's going to start slowing down after today. I cover my regular on Saturdays only. I MIGHT be able to work Amazon Sundays. But aside from today, I have the entire week off. This will probably annoy the supervisors, but I'm just going to call them throughout the week and ask if they need any help. I'd like to pick up any hours I can. I put in 64.75 hours this week and would like to continue working atleast 30 hours a week.
My union rep was also one of my trainers, and her case is just a couple away from the route I'm assigned to. She told me most RCAs work full-time at our office. Here's hoping!
The job is a lot more intense than I had expected, but everyday I'm improving. Yesterday I delivered my entire route, while my regular sat in the back of the LLV. My route is half curbside in the beginning, then CBUs. It's a subdivision and hardly rural. I'll let you know how today goes when I get back. *fingers crossed*
<blockquote class="spPostEmbedQuote"><strong>milkymint said </strong>
...Maybe you have all taught me too much too soon. ;-)
I also want to say... that I think people assume I'll quit because I won't be able to tough it out. But they are WRONG! I've never quit anything...</blockquote>
Okay, so how's the new RCA thing going for you Milky Way?? <img title="Laugh" alt="Laugh" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-laugh.gif" />
Long time no hear from... inquiring minds wanna know... did any of our predictions and or advice pan out for ya??? <img title="Confused" alt="Confused" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-confused.gif" /> </blockquote>
<span style="background-color: inherit">Haha! Okay, here is a little update.
</span><span style="background-color: inherit">Yesterday I finished my last day of training on my route and this morning I'll be doing it solo for the first time.</span>
I've been extremely busy, working 11-13 hours each day. I've had one day off in the last 2 weeks, and that was Christmas.
A few things I've learned: my office has 70+ routes, and only ONE SINGLE city route. It's all just rural carriers, and everyone seems very nice and helpful to one another. Before I even knew how to use a scanner or really drive an LLV, they made me work Amazon Sunday. It took me 6 hours to complete a 5 hour route, and they were NOT happy about it. One supervisor has made it a point to remind me how slow I am, while many of the seasoned carriers have told me I'm doing very well as a newbie. My regular is a nice guy. While everyone seems to really get along, I can tell people aren't happy with the supervisors. One in particular, the top guy, seems to be the one who does the bare minimum. If I ask him a question, I get a vague answer. The other 3 supervisors I've met are nice and helpful.
I already feel like a machine and not a person. I barely see my boyfriend, my dogs, and feel like I'm never home. But working hard feels really good at the end of the day.
Sadly, it's going to start slowing down after today. I cover my regular on Saturdays only. I MIGHT be able to work Amazon Sundays. But aside from today, I have the entire week off. This will probably annoy the supervisors, but I'm just going to call them throughout the week and ask if they need any help. I'd like to pick up any hours I can. I put in 64.75 hours this week and would like to continue working atleast 30 hours a week.
My union rep was also one of my trainers, and her case is just a couple away from the route I'm assigned to. She told me most RCAs work full-time at our office. Here's hoping!
The job is a lot more intense than I had expected, but everyday I'm improving. Yesterday I delivered my entire route, while my regular sat in the back of the LLV. My route is half curbside in the beginning, then CBUs. It's a subdivision and hardly rural. I'll let you know how today goes when I get back. *fingers crossed*
D.B.Cooper
Active member
You provided some really interesting insight MilkyWay... <img title="Smile" alt="Smile" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-smile.gif" />
Even a new person can quickly see the warped side of USPS mgt pretty quickly, and you pointed that out already... <img title="Wink" alt="Wink" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-wink.gif" />
Your positive attitude flashes many of us "old-timers" back to when we were young, and optimistic, and eager about our futures... <img title="Confused" alt="Confused" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-confused.gif" />
Sadly, doing this job, day after day, and year after year, wears on a person... mentally, physically, etc... <img title="Frown" alt="Frown" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-frown.gif" />
But, back to the happy place... <img title="Laugh" alt="Laugh" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-laugh.gif" />
Best of luck to you, and keep providing us with updates whenever you have the time or energy... it gives us all a nice little stroll down memory lane... <img title="Wink" alt="Wink" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-wink.gif" />
Even a new person can quickly see the warped side of USPS mgt pretty quickly, and you pointed that out already... <img title="Wink" alt="Wink" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-wink.gif" />
Your positive attitude flashes many of us "old-timers" back to when we were young, and optimistic, and eager about our futures... <img title="Confused" alt="Confused" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-confused.gif" />
Sadly, doing this job, day after day, and year after year, wears on a person... mentally, physically, etc... <img title="Frown" alt="Frown" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-frown.gif" />
But, back to the happy place... <img title="Laugh" alt="Laugh" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-laugh.gif" />
Best of luck to you, and keep providing us with updates whenever you have the time or energy... it gives us all a nice little stroll down memory lane... <img title="Wink" alt="Wink" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-wink.gif" />
milkymint -- Glad to hear you are hanging in there. The job can be very intimidating when first starting out.
-- Those 11-13 hour days will gradually improve as you gain experience. On the plus, if you are still within your first 5 pay periods, you'll be getting actual hours. So check your pay stub and have your trainer look at it also to be sure your getting paid properly.
-- Having identified the "top guy", you know who to avoid.
-- Become proficient on your assigned route. Running parcels will help becoming familiar with other routes and how they may interconnect.
-- Extra work will come. In a 70+ route office, the toll of the Christmas Crunch season on bodies and general health will soon lead to regulars calling in sick because of colds and body aches and pains.
-- When you have questions, ask your co-workers first.
"One supervisor has made it a point to remind me how slow I am, "
-- Basically ignore it -- everyone is slow when they first start. Something that escapes manglement personnel.
-- As far as the USPS is concerned, family life does not matter. It is like one of the automobile ads: It's the USPS or nothing. Just hope your boyfriend and dogs are understanding.
-- Check the Matrix with your trainer. There may be open slots on other routes that you could train on.
-- Hopefully there will be a slow down, at least with parcels so everyone can catch their breath.
-- The all-important 2018 Mail Count will be 24 FEB to 8 MAR. Ask someone for the 2016 NRLCA Mail Count Guide. Just read through it to get somewhat familiar with terms. Probably won't make much sense, but will lay the ground work for what is to come.
-- And try not to lose that positive attitude.
-- Those 11-13 hour days will gradually improve as you gain experience. On the plus, if you are still within your first 5 pay periods, you'll be getting actual hours. So check your pay stub and have your trainer look at it also to be sure your getting paid properly.
-- Having identified the "top guy", you know who to avoid.
-- Become proficient on your assigned route. Running parcels will help becoming familiar with other routes and how they may interconnect.
-- Extra work will come. In a 70+ route office, the toll of the Christmas Crunch season on bodies and general health will soon lead to regulars calling in sick because of colds and body aches and pains.
-- When you have questions, ask your co-workers first.
"One supervisor has made it a point to remind me how slow I am, "
-- Basically ignore it -- everyone is slow when they first start. Something that escapes manglement personnel.
-- As far as the USPS is concerned, family life does not matter. It is like one of the automobile ads: It's the USPS or nothing. Just hope your boyfriend and dogs are understanding.
-- Check the Matrix with your trainer. There may be open slots on other routes that you could train on.
-- Hopefully there will be a slow down, at least with parcels so everyone can catch their breath.
-- The all-important 2018 Mail Count will be 24 FEB to 8 MAR. Ask someone for the 2016 NRLCA Mail Count Guide. Just read through it to get somewhat familiar with terms. Probably won't make much sense, but will lay the ground work for what is to come.
-- And try not to lose that positive attitude.
Yesterday did not go well, and I'm still stressed and have anxiety about how it all went down.
It was suppose to be my first solo day on my route. I cased my mail quickly (I've been studying my route on google maps at home - house numbers, streets, etc.) I was done casing at around 10:30am and feeling really good, then I find I have an insane INSANE amount of parcels and spurs. They tell me to mark each one on the case which takes forever. My regular stops by to make sure I'm doing ok (very nice caring guy). He is worried about the number of parcels I have (could barely fit in my LLV) and a supervisor tells him they are going to have parcel runners helping all of us newbies (there were 3 of us doing solos for the first time). About an hour into my route, a seasoned RCA comes to help me. As much as I appreciated the help, it really throws me off. My LLV is no longer organized, and I end up searching for packages that he has already delivered. It was a mess, it slowed me down, he returns to help me finish my route, then is told he has to follow me as I finish. Being followed was very annoying.
All the time spent handing him packages, and searching for packages that were no longer there was a huge nightmare/time waster. I was very upset with myself when we got back to the office. I always feel so rushed by management, like they won't give me a chance to just complete the job. The day before I delivered my entire route with my regular sitting in the back of the LLV in good time. But all the pressure.... it just makes me anxious and I start making small mistakes because my focus is being divided, less on accuracy and more on time.
Just before Christmas a carrier in my town was arrested for stealing Christmas cards and there was a reddit thread about how "shady" mail carriers are. It made me so angry and I ended up going off on that person. This is SUCH a hard job, and you all deserve a ton of credit. I'm sure by now it comes easy to those of you who are experienced, but it is seriously the hardest job I've ever had, and that's saying a lot, because I use to work 16 hour days in NYC, hustling my ass off just to work up the corporate ladder to be able to afford living in the city.
The RCAs in my office are all very supportive of the new RCAs, and everyone has been super encouraging, telling me that they've all been there, and I'll pick up speed in time. But I feel like I'm really hustling and it's hard to imagine I can be more efficient. Even my package runner was super nice, telling me this happens all the time and not to be discouraged. I usually pick things up quickly and am very detail oriented, but this job is very mental and you have to be ON all day. For a new person, it's very overwhelming. Two people in my training class have already quit, and one guy, who chatted me up lastnight, wasn't sure he'd be returning, and this guy is young, fit and intelligent.
Anyway, I'm very shaken up about it all. But I will work until they fire me for being too slow. HAHA. I will never look at a carrier and not respect the work they do. My mind is really blown over it all.
It was suppose to be my first solo day on my route. I cased my mail quickly (I've been studying my route on google maps at home - house numbers, streets, etc.) I was done casing at around 10:30am and feeling really good, then I find I have an insane INSANE amount of parcels and spurs. They tell me to mark each one on the case which takes forever. My regular stops by to make sure I'm doing ok (very nice caring guy). He is worried about the number of parcels I have (could barely fit in my LLV) and a supervisor tells him they are going to have parcel runners helping all of us newbies (there were 3 of us doing solos for the first time). About an hour into my route, a seasoned RCA comes to help me. As much as I appreciated the help, it really throws me off. My LLV is no longer organized, and I end up searching for packages that he has already delivered. It was a mess, it slowed me down, he returns to help me finish my route, then is told he has to follow me as I finish. Being followed was very annoying.
All the time spent handing him packages, and searching for packages that were no longer there was a huge nightmare/time waster. I was very upset with myself when we got back to the office. I always feel so rushed by management, like they won't give me a chance to just complete the job. The day before I delivered my entire route with my regular sitting in the back of the LLV in good time. But all the pressure.... it just makes me anxious and I start making small mistakes because my focus is being divided, less on accuracy and more on time.
Just before Christmas a carrier in my town was arrested for stealing Christmas cards and there was a reddit thread about how "shady" mail carriers are. It made me so angry and I ended up going off on that person. This is SUCH a hard job, and you all deserve a ton of credit. I'm sure by now it comes easy to those of you who are experienced, but it is seriously the hardest job I've ever had, and that's saying a lot, because I use to work 16 hour days in NYC, hustling my ass off just to work up the corporate ladder to be able to afford living in the city.
The RCAs in my office are all very supportive of the new RCAs, and everyone has been super encouraging, telling me that they've all been there, and I'll pick up speed in time. But I feel like I'm really hustling and it's hard to imagine I can be more efficient. Even my package runner was super nice, telling me this happens all the time and not to be discouraged. I usually pick things up quickly and am very detail oriented, but this job is very mental and you have to be ON all day. For a new person, it's very overwhelming. Two people in my training class have already quit, and one guy, who chatted me up lastnight, wasn't sure he'd be returning, and this guy is young, fit and intelligent.
Anyway, I'm very shaken up about it all. But I will work until they fire me for being too slow. HAHA. I will never look at a carrier and not respect the work they do. My mind is really blown over it all.
Shafted
Well-known member
Hang in there. My first day on route solo ended in tears, and I DO NOT usually let that happen. It was a week before Xmas. Dark out, going on 6:30, and I had to dig a stuck mail Jeep out of the snow. By the time I got back the missort, outgoing mail, package markers etc were all in a bucket. It takes a while to get it down. It will get better.
milkymint -- "Yesterday did not go well, and I’m still stressed and have anxiety about how it all went down."
-- Take heart -- there will be many more days like that! Be like a duck and let it roll off. Like baseball pitcher who give up a home run or a defense back who gets burned for the TD -- you have to have a SHORT memory. Here will be good days - honest. Treasure them and forget the bad days.
-- I can identify with having parcels marked only to have to give some of them away. Next time, take the time to write down the ones you give away. Try to divide the route into thirds or quarters or what ever works for you and put the delivery address in which ever portion. That might help in cutting down search time.
"I always feel so rushed by management, like they won’t give me a chance to just complete the job. "
-- Hopefully things will easy up with the start of the new year. Maybe manglement will ease up too.
-- Mistakes happen, even to the best of carriers. Treat it as a "lesson learned" and try not to repeat it.
-- It comes down to: practice, practice, practice and repetition, repetition, repetition.
-- You have very supportive carriers -- listen to them and take any suggestions they may offer.
"I will never look at a carrier and not respect the work they do. My mind is really blown over it all."
-- Most people only see the carrier put the mail into their mail box. They have no real idea what goes on "behind the curtain" to get the mail ready for delivery.
-- If you handled working in NYC, this should be a piece of cake!
-- Take heart -- there will be many more days like that! Be like a duck and let it roll off. Like baseball pitcher who give up a home run or a defense back who gets burned for the TD -- you have to have a SHORT memory. Here will be good days - honest. Treasure them and forget the bad days.
-- I can identify with having parcels marked only to have to give some of them away. Next time, take the time to write down the ones you give away. Try to divide the route into thirds or quarters or what ever works for you and put the delivery address in which ever portion. That might help in cutting down search time.
"I always feel so rushed by management, like they won’t give me a chance to just complete the job. "
-- Hopefully things will easy up with the start of the new year. Maybe manglement will ease up too.
-- Mistakes happen, even to the best of carriers. Treat it as a "lesson learned" and try not to repeat it.
-- It comes down to: practice, practice, practice and repetition, repetition, repetition.
-- You have very supportive carriers -- listen to them and take any suggestions they may offer.
"I will never look at a carrier and not respect the work they do. My mind is really blown over it all."
-- Most people only see the carrier put the mail into their mail box. They have no real idea what goes on "behind the curtain" to get the mail ready for delivery.
-- If you handled working in NYC, this should be a piece of cake!
I remember when I was new and thinking, wow I felt like I went really fast/smooth, did a good job and I'm still the last one back and definitely not getting congratulated. Not sure I could have done any better than I did...
But trust me you will get better. Its nice knowing a route, knowing what box is next before you even get there. If you're fumbling around at each box for 5 or 10 extra seconds because you don't know the route and multiply that by 650 boxes... Someone do the math haha that's likea couple hours.
But trust me you will get better. Its nice knowing a route, knowing what box is next before you even get there. If you're fumbling around at each box for 5 or 10 extra seconds because you don't know the route and multiply that by 650 boxes... Someone do the math haha that's likea couple hours.
D.B.Cooper
Active member
Even after you get it down pat... sometimes you still wonder... is it really worth it... <img title="Confused" alt="Confused" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-confused.gif" />
But hang in there if it's something you wanna do... you seem plenty bright enuf for this job... maybe too bright... <img title="Surprised" alt="Surprised" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-surprised.gif" />
But hang in there if it's something you wanna do... you seem plenty bright enuf for this job... maybe too bright... <img title="Surprised" alt="Surprised" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-surprised.gif" />
D.B.Cooper
Active member
<blockquote class="spPostEmbedQuote"><strong>milkymint said </strong>
Ok, so right now I'm in training for a RCA (obviously), but before I accepted this position, I had applied for a PSE Clerk position. Currently, my application status says "PRE-HIRE LIST" which is usually what I'm moved to before I get called for an interview. If they reach out to me and ask me to come in for an interview, and I go, is it going to affect my chances since I'm already an RCA? Or can I still get hired for this position?
I'm really tempted to e-mail the ladies that hired me, to get clarification,<strong> because I've really felt lied to by them.</strong> I'm so disappointed in them, and I just want to verify their <strong>lies</strong> one more time. </blockquote>
Seems like it's been a couple of months now since this thread was active... maybe Milkymint will give us an update on the joys of working (or maybe not anymore) for the USPS... <img title="Confused" alt="Confused" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-confused.gif" />
Ok, so right now I'm in training for a RCA (obviously), but before I accepted this position, I had applied for a PSE Clerk position. Currently, my application status says "PRE-HIRE LIST" which is usually what I'm moved to before I get called for an interview. If they reach out to me and ask me to come in for an interview, and I go, is it going to affect my chances since I'm already an RCA? Or can I still get hired for this position?
I'm really tempted to e-mail the ladies that hired me, to get clarification,<strong> because I've really felt lied to by them.</strong> I'm so disappointed in them, and I just want to verify their <strong>lies</strong> one more time. </blockquote>
Seems like it's been a couple of months now since this thread was active... maybe Milkymint will give us an update on the joys of working (or maybe not anymore) for the USPS... <img title="Confused" alt="Confused" src="https://www.ruralmailtalk.ruralinfo.net/wp-content/sp-resources/forum-smileys/sf-confused.gif" />
Hi,
As you can see, this is my first post. I’m a former desk jockey at the end of her writing career, looking for feasible part-time work. I’m in pretty good shape hoping that a physical job will help me stay that way. I’m reviving this thread because it’s very helpful to someone about to be hired as an RCA. I’m not necessarily interested in moving up.
I’m a sub teacher during the school year and will not get hours in the summer. My area is a summer tourist/summer home destination that will likely have a lot of hours now and at Christmas and not so much during the school year. Is it pie-in-the-sky to think that this might work for me?
This entire forum, along with federal soup, has been eye opening. Thank you, everyone, for the ongoing education for all of us newbies.
As you can see, this is my first post. I’m a former desk jockey at the end of her writing career, looking for feasible part-time work. I’m in pretty good shape hoping that a physical job will help me stay that way. I’m reviving this thread because it’s very helpful to someone about to be hired as an RCA. I’m not necessarily interested in moving up.
I’m a sub teacher during the school year and will not get hours in the summer. My area is a summer tourist/summer home destination that will likely have a lot of hours now and at Christmas and not so much during the school year. Is it pie-in-the-sky to think that this might work for me?
This entire forum, along with federal soup, has been eye opening. Thank you, everyone, for the ongoing education for all of us newbies.
Shafted
Well-known member
I’m going to cut right to the chase. It’s a nice October morning. School district you are subbing for calls at 6:15 and says hello, we need you to teach second grade today. You accept. USPS calls at 7:30 and says we have a sick carrier, and need you to run RR4. You decline saying you are already working today. I can tell you how this is going to end. The USPS considers your other job irrelevant, as well as second fiddle. You might get away with it the first time, but after a second or third you’re probably going to be done. This sounds harsh, very harsh. I’m a straight shooter. I don’t beat around the bush, or candy coat stuff, or tell people just the things they want to hear. Mgt is also going to lie out their ass trying to tell you everything under the sun to get you to take the job. Lies about how much you will, or will not work. Lies about when you need to be available. Lies about where your career path will go, and when. The list is endless. This is simple truth. I wish you the best in your decision.
<blockquote class="spPostEmbedQuote"><strong>Landseer said </strong>
Hi,
As you can see, this is my first post. I’m a former desk jockey at the end of her writing career, looking for feasible part-time work. I’m in pretty good shape hoping that a physical job will help me stay that way. I’m reviving this thread because it’s very helpful to someone about to be hired as an RCA. I’m not necessarily interested in moving up.
I’m a sub teacher during the school year and will not get hours in the summer. My area is a summer tourist/summer home destination that will likely have a lot of hours now and at Christmas and not so much during the school year. Is it pie-in-the-sky to think that this might work for me?
This entire forum, along with federal soup, has been eye opening. Thank you, everyone, for the ongoing education for all of us newbies. </blockquote>
Part Time? At one time it would have been part time. Now they expect you to at their beck & call daily.
Remember "If their lips are moving, the're lying". They will tell you everything you want to hear until you're hired, then it's all BS & Lies
Hi,
As you can see, this is my first post. I’m a former desk jockey at the end of her writing career, looking for feasible part-time work. I’m in pretty good shape hoping that a physical job will help me stay that way. I’m reviving this thread because it’s very helpful to someone about to be hired as an RCA. I’m not necessarily interested in moving up.
I’m a sub teacher during the school year and will not get hours in the summer. My area is a summer tourist/summer home destination that will likely have a lot of hours now and at Christmas and not so much during the school year. Is it pie-in-the-sky to think that this might work for me?
This entire forum, along with federal soup, has been eye opening. Thank you, everyone, for the ongoing education for all of us newbies. </blockquote>
Part Time? At one time it would have been part time. Now they expect you to at their beck & call daily.
Remember "If their lips are moving, the're lying". They will tell you everything you want to hear until you're hired, then it's all BS & Lies
Landseer -- "I’m a sub teacher during the school year and will not get hours in the summer. My area is a summer tourist/summer home destination that will likely have a lot of hours now and at Christmas and not so much during the school year. Is it pie-in-the-sky to think that this might work for me?"
-- As previous postings have indicted, if you are looking to become an RCA ( Rural Carrier Associate ), that particular job will NOT be a good fit for you. RUN!
-- However - comma - this may be an alternative that may just fit your situation as a substitute teacher.
-- The USPS has the ARC ( Assistant Rural Carrier ) position which is WAY DIFFERENT from an RCA ( see above ).
-- An ARC only can work on Saturdays ( may have to carry a mail route but only as a last resort ), Sundays ( parcel delivery ) and ( national ) Holidays, when most schools would be closed. ARC's may NOT work Monday through Friday, unless on a national holiday.
-- Other ( but not all ) tid-bits of ARC info:
- may have to supply your own vehicle, which for parcel deliveries might not be a bad thing. You will get an allowance when using your own vehicle. ( Be sure to let your insurance company know your may be using your vehicle for the USPS. Some companies will not cover you. )
- hourly pay based on Table 4 ( same rate as RCA's hired on or after 11 AUG 2012 ) and it will be ACTUAL time. Currently $17.78 / hour.
- no path to becoming a regular carrier ( good that you are not necessarily looking to "move up" )
- no automatic conversion to RCA. ( will have to take a test like everyone else )
- no access to non-career employee health benefits, earned leave, or bidding rights. It is just a job - period. ( hopefully you have health care coverage through your teaching job )
- you can become a union member. ( if so, bite the bullet and pay cash instead of having union dues withheld from your pay. The main reason is that it is HARD to get out of the union if dues are withheld )
- you will be a bargaining unit employee with limited contractual benefits like articles that deal with grievances and discipline.
- no hiring exam, but other hiring requirements applicable ( back ground check, drug testing, fingerprinting, driver's license, etc )
- there is a probationary period of 90 work days or one calendar year.
- ARC's are only hired in offices that participate in Sunday Amazon delivery. ( that could be a problem -- if there are more than one post office in your area, check to see which if any office runs Amazon parcels on Sundays )
- honestly, we have heard of very few hirings as ARC's, but it appears to be well-suited for your situation.
- good luck
-- As previous postings have indicted, if you are looking to become an RCA ( Rural Carrier Associate ), that particular job will NOT be a good fit for you. RUN!
-- However - comma - this may be an alternative that may just fit your situation as a substitute teacher.
-- The USPS has the ARC ( Assistant Rural Carrier ) position which is WAY DIFFERENT from an RCA ( see above ).
-- An ARC only can work on Saturdays ( may have to carry a mail route but only as a last resort ), Sundays ( parcel delivery ) and ( national ) Holidays, when most schools would be closed. ARC's may NOT work Monday through Friday, unless on a national holiday.
-- Other ( but not all ) tid-bits of ARC info:
- may have to supply your own vehicle, which for parcel deliveries might not be a bad thing. You will get an allowance when using your own vehicle. ( Be sure to let your insurance company know your may be using your vehicle for the USPS. Some companies will not cover you. )
- hourly pay based on Table 4 ( same rate as RCA's hired on or after 11 AUG 2012 ) and it will be ACTUAL time. Currently $17.78 / hour.
- no path to becoming a regular carrier ( good that you are not necessarily looking to "move up" )
- no automatic conversion to RCA. ( will have to take a test like everyone else )
- no access to non-career employee health benefits, earned leave, or bidding rights. It is just a job - period. ( hopefully you have health care coverage through your teaching job )
- you can become a union member. ( if so, bite the bullet and pay cash instead of having union dues withheld from your pay. The main reason is that it is HARD to get out of the union if dues are withheld )
- you will be a bargaining unit employee with limited contractual benefits like articles that deal with grievances and discipline.
- no hiring exam, but other hiring requirements applicable ( back ground check, drug testing, fingerprinting, driver's license, etc )
- there is a probationary period of 90 work days or one calendar year.
- ARC's are only hired in offices that participate in Sunday Amazon delivery. ( that could be a problem -- if there are more than one post office in your area, check to see which if any office runs Amazon parcels on Sundays )
- honestly, we have heard of very few hirings as ARC's, but it appears to be well-suited for your situation.
- good luck
Thanks, cliff, shafted, and bdtret for your replies. It gives me a lot to think about.
I haven’t been a sub teacher for very long— just a couple of months—and I’ll get no hours during the summer. I left my editing job in November and jobs that pay more than $10/hr are hard to find up here in the rural Northwoods-especially with insurance.
I’ll ask about the ARC position, but I’ve already taken the test for RCA, so that’s what is offered. When I had the interview with the PM, I kind of knew she was just looking for bodies to fill the position, since fishing opener is next weekend (though it will be ice-fishing opener this year!). Oh, and I have to supply my own vehicle for the RCA job.
I haven’t been a sub teacher for very long— just a couple of months—and I’ll get no hours during the summer. I left my editing job in November and jobs that pay more than $10/hr are hard to find up here in the rural Northwoods-especially with insurance.
I’ll ask about the ARC position, but I’ve already taken the test for RCA, so that’s what is offered. When I had the interview with the PM, I kind of knew she was just looking for bodies to fill the position, since fishing opener is next weekend (though it will be ice-fishing opener this year!). Oh, and I have to supply my own vehicle for the RCA job.
<blockquote class="spPostEmbedQuote"><strong>Landseer said </strong>
Hi,
As you can see, this is my first post. I’m a former desk jockey at the end of her writing career, looking for feasible part-time work. I’m in pretty good shape hoping that a physical job will help me stay that way. </blockquote>
Would you consider neck, back, shoulder, carpal tunnel issues, stress and anxiety a benefit of a physical job?
Hi,
As you can see, this is my first post. I’m a former desk jockey at the end of her writing career, looking for feasible part-time work. I’m in pretty good shape hoping that a physical job will help me stay that way. </blockquote>
Would you consider neck, back, shoulder, carpal tunnel issues, stress and anxiety a benefit of a physical job?
Five days after a 63-year-old U.S. Postal Service mail carrier from Snohomish disappeared, Snohomish Police will hand the investigation over to the Sheriff's Office Major Crimes Unit.
Body of missing Snohomish postal carrier found in Everett
Longtime USPS Worker, an NJ Married Dad of 3, Missing for 2 Weeks
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Here's hoping this story does not have the same ending
In case someone thinks this post is off topic, it is not,
Being in good physical shape when starting this job is beneficial, having strong mental health and a very thick skin is essential!!
Body of missing Snohomish postal carrier found in Everett
Longtime USPS Worker, an NJ Married Dad of 3, Missing for 2 Weeks
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Here's hoping this story does not have the same ending
In case someone thinks this post is off topic, it is not,
Being in good physical shape when starting this job is beneficial, having strong mental health and a very thick skin is essential!!
Landseer -- "I’ve already taken the test for RCA, so that’s what is offered. "
-- Be up front with the postmaster. Say you were unaware of the ARC position before starting the RCA process and that the ARC position would probably be a much better fit -- for both of you.
-- Of course, if there are no ARC position(s) available, so be it, and take the RCA job. But certainly ask around at other post offices -- just in case.
-- On the plus side, the PM mentioned you would need to supply your own vehicle. Some PM's tend to overlook that in an effort to get warm bodies into their office.
-- Unofficially the mail carrier position tends to favor right-handed people -- both in casing mail and putting mail into mail boxes from a right-hand drive vehicle.
-- For additional information, Google the following:
"usps publication 181 -- join our team!" ( it's 12 pages. NB page 2! )
"rural carrier occupational code: 2325.01xx"
"rural carrier job description"
"letter carrier duties and requirements of a letter carrier" ( click on "letter carrier duties - nalc" -- 129-page power point presentation containing info and PICTURES. Specifically for city letter carriers, but handy info for someone looking to become a rural carrier / RCA / ARC . ) download it for future reference!!
-- Be up front with the postmaster. Say you were unaware of the ARC position before starting the RCA process and that the ARC position would probably be a much better fit -- for both of you.
-- Of course, if there are no ARC position(s) available, so be it, and take the RCA job. But certainly ask around at other post offices -- just in case.
-- On the plus side, the PM mentioned you would need to supply your own vehicle. Some PM's tend to overlook that in an effort to get warm bodies into their office.
-- Unofficially the mail carrier position tends to favor right-handed people -- both in casing mail and putting mail into mail boxes from a right-hand drive vehicle.
-- For additional information, Google the following:
"usps publication 181 -- join our team!" ( it's 12 pages. NB page 2! )
"rural carrier occupational code: 2325.01xx"
"rural carrier job description"
"letter carrier duties and requirements of a letter carrier" ( click on "letter carrier duties - nalc" -- 129-page power point presentation containing info and PICTURES. Specifically for city letter carriers, but handy info for someone looking to become a rural carrier / RCA / ARC . ) download it for future reference!!
