What does the USPS Pre Hire List Mean?

The USPS has a rigorous hiring process – they want the best candidates for the job! If you applied to work at the USPS in 2024, you’ve likely encountered the term “pre-hire list.” But what exactly does it mean? And how long does it take to get off the list?

Let’s break down the USPS pre-hire list and what it means for your application. We’ll cover what the list signifies, how long you might stay on it, and the next steps in the USPS hiring process.

Key Takeaways:

1. Pre hire list contains names of all the candidates who have cleared the postal exam 473 or virtual entry assessment.
2. Receiving an interview email or call can take several weeks or months. Depends on the need of employees at the local post office.
3. You can be on the pre-hire list for up to 1 year.
4. If there’s a prolonged wait, candidates can consider contacting the hiring manager or local post office.

What Is The USPS Pre-Hire List?

The USPS Pre-Hire List is a list that contains all the candidates who are qualified for the further hiring process. You will get added to the pre-hire list only if you do well in the virtual entry assessment.

This doesn’t mean that you got the job. It just means that you are qualified for the further hiring process. After getting on to the pre-hire list, you will be hearing from the USPS about the further hiring process.

If you have not cleared the postal exam, you will see the status as “ineligible”. This means you are disqualified.

What Steps Make Up The USPS Pre-Hire Process?

The process starts with filling out the application and then taking a test called Postal Test 473. Many find this test hard; not everyone passes, and there is huge competition for USPS jobs.

After you have completed the postal exam and do well in it, you move on to the next part: the pre-hire stage. Here, someone from the hiring team might call you for an interview. 

If that goes well and they like your test scores, you could be invited to a special meeting called a pre-employment orientation.

At this meeting, they’ll check everything about you and make sure you give the right information about you. Don’t fake your skills, achievements, and employment history. 

It’s also a time for you to learn more about the job. After this, the HR team will review all the applications and reports they have received. 

If they think you’re the best fit, they’ll take you off the pre-hire list and offer you the job.

What Can You Expect While You’re On The Pre-Hire List?

If you are on the pre-hire list, first of all, congratulations. Now, you should start preparing for the upcoming interviews.

Candidates are called individually for interviews, so it might take some time before it’s your turn. You’ll receive an interview call if your local post office has an immediate position to fill, as hiring is based on their specific needs. 

Once your interview is completed, you’ll be invited to a pre-employment orientation. This means you are almost hired.

How Long Do You Stay On The Pre-Hire List?

The duration can vary. Being on the pre-hire list means that you have met certain qualifications, but the final hiring decision often depends on the specific needs of the post office in question.

Sometimes, candidates might stay on this list for just a few weeks, especially if there’s an urgent need to fill positions. USPS might hire immediately in these kinds of situations. 

In other situations, it can take several months. This waiting period largely depends on factors like the number of applicants, the particular needs of the post office, and how frequently they’re hiring.

USPS Pre Hire List But No Email; What To Do?

Check your spam or junk folders thoroughly. Sometimes, official emails can mistakenly land there. 

If you still haven’t received an email, consider contacting the local post office or the hiring manager you’ve been in contact with. 

They can provide clarity and ensure that there haven’t been any communication issues. All you can do is wait patiently. If your profile suits the job, they will contact you.

FAQs

How long will I be on the pre-hire list for USPS?

You can be on the pre-hire list for USPS for up to one year.

What does the pre-hire list mean for USPS?

The pre-hire list is a list of qualified applicants who are eligible to be hired for a position at USPS. However, it does not guarantee that you will be hired.

What comes after pre hire list?

If you are selected for a position from the pre-hire list, you will be offered a conditional job offer. You will then need to pass a background check and drug test. Once you have passed all of the requirements, you will be hired as a USPS employee.

Does pre-hire mean you got the job?

No, pre-hire does not mean you got the job. It means that you are eligible to be hired for a position, but you still need to pass a background check, drug test, and any required training.

Conclusion

 Being on the pre-hire list means that you have cleared the online virtual entry assessment and are qualified for the further hiring process of USPS. 

After getting onto this list, you’ll need to be ready for more interviews. USPS will contact you to let you know about the further process. 

It might take some time to get a call for an interview because the hiring procedure at USPS is need-based, and you will be contacted based on the needs of the local post office. 

Getting an interview call might take a few weeks or even months. So be patient and wait for an email or call from the United States Postal Service. 

You may contact the hiring manager or the local post office if you don’t hear from USPS for a prolonged time.

With that being said, it’s a wrap.