My name is Carlos Almeda, and I’m a rural carrier in Manassas, VA. I deliver mail and packages to customers on my route and play a part in helping USPS serve my community.
I come in early every day and prepare for delivery by putting my letters and packages in order.
While the routine does not vary, some days are different. Wednesdays and Thursdays are my heaviest days. At certain times of the year, such as back-to-school season and Christmas, there’s more volume. But basically, it is the same, just more of everything.
I like to help people. My customers and I have built trust and communication. They like to tell me when they are expecting things, and I look out for them as much as I can.
I joined the Postal Service in 2004 as a substitute carrier. I then got my current route in 2006. Back then, I handled more letters and flats. Now it’s more about packages.
My wife, Glenda, and I married 27 years ago in Puerto Rico, where we had our first two children, who are now 27 and 24. In 2003, we moved to the mainland and had two more children, who are 15 and 11. All four of our kids are boys, but I have a granddaughter, who is 9 months old.
I love spending time with my family, going out to eat with them and taking them to places where they can have fun.
The Postal Service is good place to start or continue a career. I like being outside and talking with people. It’s a good job.