What is a postman’s salary in the UK?

With workers striking across the UK, looking for a pay increase to address the soaring cost of living, we look into what the job offers to the UK postie.

Typically, a working week for a postman can range between 30 and 43 hours, but you do get home early in the afternoon.

Getty - Contributor

Postman are still the front line of the country’s mail service on a daily basis[/caption]

What is a postman’s salary in the UK?

In the UK, the national average wage for 2022 sits at £24,600, according to HMRC and the Office for National Statistics (ONS).

Starting salaries for the job being at £16,000, usually for apprentices.

This then rises to around the £25,000 mark for experienced postal workers.

In London, the average wage a postman can expect is in the region of £24, 303.

These figures sit above some of the lowest paid jobs in a recent survey but a long way off some of the highest paid salaries.

How can I become a postman?

The job itself can be physically demanding, carrying heavy bags of mail in all weather, whilst covering large distances on the round.

Starting at 5.30am, usually, the UK postman can expect to have completed their shift by around 1pm in the afternoon.

One option is you could do an express delivery operative intermediate apprenticeship, if you want to work as a post-person with driving and collections duties.

Royal Mail often recruit temporary staff, which can be a useful way to gain some experience and apply for permanent jobs as they come up.

Other than that, you can apply directly for delivery work.

What qualifications do I need to become a postman?

You do not need any specific qualifications to become a postman.

Some GCSE’s, usually including English and Maths, or equivalent, are required for an intermediate apprenticeship.

This apprentice scheme is open to everyone over 16 years of age.

However, to apply for a postman role, the individual must be over 18 years of age.

It is a job that is likely to keep you physically fit, with plenty of fresh air and dealing with members of the public on a daily basis which can be perfect for the type of ‘people person’ who would ideally suit the role.