The Postal Service is marking USPS Ethics Awareness Week by reminding employees that they can have second jobs, but there are certain types of employment that are not permitted.
Employees cannot engage in any outside work that conflicts with or affects their postal duties.
Ethics regulations also prohibit employees from:
• Working for an entity that delivers mailable matter that could otherwise be sent via U.S. Mail. This includes delivery companies such as Amazon, UPS, FedEx and DHL. Additionally, employees must seek approval from the USPS Ethics Office before working for an Amazon subsidiary that does not deliver mailable matter.
• Receiving compensation from an outside source for teaching, speaking or writing that is related to their official Postal Service duties.
• Receiving compensation from any foreign government.
• Working for a company, including a solo venture, that consults on postal operations, programs or procedures.
If a second job involves appearing before, interacting with or making a presentation to the Postal Service on behalf of another person or business, this is against the law and employees in this situation should contact the USPS Ethics Office before taking any action.
Postal Service employees should check with the USPS Ethics Office before taking a second job. Even if not prohibited, some types of supplemental employment require prior approval, and the office can provide the necessary guidance.
The Ethics Blue page covers these topics in more detail. For more information, employees can email the Postal Service’s ethics helpline or call 202-268-6346.
