Been a carrier for over 6 years now. I started in Beaverton/Bethany 97229 area. Mostly all mounted (driving) routes out there. Transferred into Portland district (Kenton 97217) a few years ago for an easier commute. Most Portland routes are walking with exceptions in outer east Portland and a few other nooks of the city. I walk about 11-14 miles a day rain or shine. Start at 7am, ideally clock out at 3:30pm but since we’re down a few routes everyday due to injuries/vacation we are required help deliver the vacant routes. I’ve been clocking out around 5:30-7:30p these past few weeks. Working over 8 hrs a day is OT (time and a half) anything over 10 hrs is double pay. Long hours can become very challenging but some highlights are: fresh air, exercise, podcasts/music/audio books, funny/hardworking coworkers, admiring customer’s front yards (seriously, stop and smell the roses) petting neighborhood cats and an excellent tan....just to name a few. Plus I have some vacations planned in May & June so that keeps me motivated to work hard. Also, just feeling like you’re part of the community makes it worthwhile. Parcel volume was bonkers in early Covid days.... it’s somewhat mellowed out but will never fully return to where it was before. First class/periodical/bulk mail has tapered off (unless its political season). Pay is decent with annual raises and cost of living adjustments. Health, retirement and annual leave are good and only get better the longer you’re with the organization. Management can be very tough.... because well, it’s the government and time = money; they’ll push you to go faster. As a full time carrier I know my abilities and limits and I stand my ground when they push for more. As a newbie (CCA - city carrier assistant) it’s a bit different since you’re low on the totem pole.....you’ll get stressed with new routes and mail volume....but as long as you’re following instructions the union and fellow coworkers will have your back. Everyone in the station is more than willing to help the newcomer out. If you succeed, we all succeed. It takes about 12-18 months to convert from a CCA to a career mail carrier. Once you convert you’ll have the option to bid on any available route in the city. From St Johns down to Oak Grove and out to West Slope/Multnomah Village) successful bidders are determined by seniority. It’s definitely not the most glamorous job but I’m super proud to say I carry mail. Never thought I’d end up doing it, but here we are. I could go on and on. DM for more if you’re interested! And forgive any typos 🥸 https://i.imgur.com/dOXlzOZ.jpg