Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Handle and process mail for the UK armed forces in a secure and efficient manner.
- Company: Join the British Forces Postal Office, a trusted name in Defence postal services.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, a generous pension, and various discounts.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team with opportunities for growth and skill development.
- Qualifications: Must have IT knowledge, a full UK driving licence, and experience in physically demanding roles.
- Other info: 100% site-based role with Monday to Friday working hours.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Join us at the British Forces Postal Office (BFPO) and take the first step towards a rewarding career. The BFPO provides postal and courier services to the UK armed forces and is a renowned brand across Defence. You will be based in the Defence Mail Centre in Aldershot where we will provide all the training required to develop your skill set and gain the experience necessary to excel in your role.
As a Postal and Mail Operative, you will assist with the secure, safe, and timely handling of armed forces’ mail. This includes ensuring the accurate receipt, sorting, and dispatching of all types of mail in a secure, logical, and methodical manner. Your daily tasks will involve both physical and desk-based work, such as data inputting, sorting, and processing mail, and loading vehicles for dispatch and may involve extended periods of standing.
You will be part of a large, dedicated team with many opportunities for progression and development within the team and the wider organisation. This position is 100% site-based with typical working hours of Monday to Friday, 0730 - 1530.
What you’ll be doing:
- Maintaining procedures in accordance with mail handling standards and processes set by BFPO and Royal Mail.
- Maintaining workplace safety standards, responsible for your own safety and the safety of your colleagues.
- Using a combination of bespoke IT, handheld, and manual systems, creating and maintaining mail dispatch schedules following correct consignment and regulatory processes.
- Acting as the driver completing timely delivery of mail in accordance with instructions and security regulations.
- Ensuring accurate and secure redirection, location, trace, and personal verification of mail using both computer and local systems.
- Using manual handling equipment, with the ability to lift mail items up to 11kg unaided, 30kg assisted, and working collaboratively with others to move heavier items.
- Always adhering to all BFPO and Civil Aviation Authority Security requirements and maintain the security of BFPO mail.
You will be required to adhere to personal security arrangements, complete annual security training and will be required to carry appropriate issued ID whilst at work. You will be expected to take reasonable care for the health and safety of others that may be affected by their acts or omissions at work, and to observe best practice and compliance with legislation in the protection of the environment and the conservation of energy.
Person specification:
To be successful with your application, you’ll need to show that you meet the following essential criteria:
- General knowledge of IT Systems and Microsoft Office applications with experience of data entry and processing.
- Holder of a Full UK Manual Driving licence, Cat B with a maximum of 6 penalty points.
- Recent evidence of working in a physically demanding role.
- Ability to work under pressure, at pace and to tight schedules.
- Evidence of working independently and as part of a team.
- Experience of a strong customer focus, and stakeholder engagement.
In addition to the responsibilities above, the following technical competences and behaviours will be assessed at interview:
TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:
- Customer Service - Awareness
- Making evidence-based decisions - Awareness
BEHAVIOURS:
- Delivering at pace - CSBC1
- Working together - CSBC1
Benefits:
- 25 days’ annual leave +1 day a year up to 30 days, 8 bank holidays and a day off for the King’s birthday
- Market-leading average employer pension contribution of 28.97%
- Annual performance-based bonus and recognition awards
- Access to specialist training and funded qualifications
- Support for progression
- Huge range of discounts
- Volunteering days
- Enhanced parental leave schemes
Improving innovation and enriching our culture, diversity of thought is vital to our success. So, whether you’re looking for a new opportunity, a next step, or a helping hand as you return from a career break, bring your experiences and help deliver for the defence of tomorrow. Here you’ll find a supportive, family-friendly organisation to be a part of - and if you need any assistance with your application, just let us know.
Postal & Mail Operative employer: Reed Talent Solutions
Contact Detail:
Reed Talent Solutions Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Postal & Mail Operative
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the BFPO and Royal Mail's mail handling standards. Understanding these procedures will not only help you during the interview but also demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high standards in postal operations.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in physically demanding roles. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed similar tasks, as this will show that you're prepared for the physical aspects of the job.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare examples of how you've worked effectively both independently and as part of a team. This role requires collaboration, so showcasing your teamwork skills will be crucial during the selection process.
✨Tip Number 4
Brush up on your customer service skills. Since the role involves stakeholder engagement, being able to demonstrate your customer focus and how you've handled customer interactions in the past will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Postal & Mail Operative
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Postal & Mail Operative. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these expectations.
Highlight Relevant Experience: Emphasise any previous roles that involved physical work, data entry, or customer service. Provide specific examples of how you have successfully managed similar tasks in the past.
Showcase IT Skills: Since the role requires knowledge of IT systems and Microsoft Office applications, mention any relevant experience you have with these tools. If you have completed any training or certifications, be sure to include them.
Demonstrate Teamwork and Independence: Provide examples of situations where you have worked effectively as part of a team, as well as instances where you have successfully completed tasks independently. This will show your versatility and ability to adapt to different working environments.
How to prepare for a job interview at Reed Talent Solutions
✨Show Your IT Skills
Since the role requires general knowledge of IT systems and Microsoft Office applications, be prepared to discuss your experience with data entry and processing. Bring examples of how you've used these skills in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Physical Capability
The job involves physically demanding tasks, so be ready to talk about your experience in similar roles. Highlight any relevant physical work you've done and your ability to lift and move items safely.
✨Emphasise Teamwork and Independence
This position requires both teamwork and the ability to work independently. Prepare examples that showcase your experience in collaborative environments as well as instances where you successfully managed tasks on your own.
✨Understand Customer Service Focus
Customer service is key in this role. Be ready to discuss how you've engaged with customers or stakeholders in the past, and how you prioritise their needs while maintaining efficiency in your work.
