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MSS & Non-MSS Positions

There are two categories of positions in the Maintenance Craft - MSS positions and Non-MSS positions. Each category has a different application process; however the "pecking order" for filling positions in each category is the same. Some common MSS positions are Building Maintenance Custodian, Maintenance Mechanic, MPE Mechanic, Building Equipment Mechanic, and Electronic Technician. Some common Non-MSS positions are Cleaner, Custodian, Laborer-Custodial, Elevator Operator, and Maintenance Support Clerk.

USPS Handbook EL-304, Maintenance Selection System Handbook [PDF] , ensures the selection and promotion of qualified maintenance personnel and the uniform application of qualification requirements for MSS positions. The Maintenance Selection System is a three-part system (including a Written Test, Review Panel Evaluation, and Supervisor Evaluation) for Maintenance Craft employees to establish eligibility for designated maintenance occupational groups and levels.

Non-MSS positions have different methods of application and qualification. The procedures outlined in Postal Bulletin 21770, dated Aug. 23, 1990 [PDF], govern eligibility for Non-MSS positions. (Postal Bulletin 21770 revised Handbook EL-311, Personnel Operations, Subchapter 520.)

An agreement [PDF] between the APWU and USPS dated April 10, 2003, concerning custodial positions supports the union's position.

It should be noted that in order to be considered qualified for custodial positions, new applicants must have successfully complete Test 916. Maintenance Support Clerks, Levels 5 and 6, most pass the simplified typing test, Test 714, and Test 710 [PDF]. Test 714 requires the applicant to demonstrate the ability to type 30 correct lines within 10 minutes. Test 710 is a general aptitude test related to the type of work performed in Maintenance Control.

MSS positions are listed in the EL-304 Handbook and separated into four groups, according to the test requirements. The positions and tests are listed below:

GROUP A (Exam 931)

Area Maintenance Specialist
Area Maintenance Technician
Blacksmith-Welder
Building Equipment Mechanic
Building Maintenance Custodian
Carpenter
Letter Box Mechanic (Shop)
Machinist
Maintenance Electrician
Maintenance Mechanic, Level 4
Maintenance Mechanic, Level 5
Mason
Painter
Painter-Finisher
Plumber

GROUP B (Exam 932)

Electronic Technician, Level 11

GROUP C (Exam 932)

Electronics Technician, Level 12

GROUP D (Exam 933)

Maintenance Mechanic, MPE

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