driver helper ups

3 min read 22-11-2024

Meta Description: Thinking about becoming a UPS driver helper? This comprehensive guide explores the job's requirements, pay, benefits, and how to apply. Learn about daily tasks, training, and career advancement opportunities within UPS. Discover if this is the right role for you!

What Does a UPS Driver Helper Do?

A UPS driver helper assists package car drivers with the efficient and safe delivery of packages. This physically demanding role requires stamina and teamwork. Helpers load and unload packages, often in a fast-paced environment. They ensure packages are handled with care to prevent damage. Driver helpers are crucial to UPS's daily operations, ensuring timely and reliable deliveries. The job is ideal for individuals who enjoy physical work and being part of a team.

A Day in the Life of a UPS Driver Helper

A typical day for a UPS driver helper involves:

Early mornings: Most routes begin before sunrise, requiring an early start.
Loading the truck: Helping the driver load packages onto the delivery vehicle, ensuring proper organization and balance.
Delivery assistance: Assisting the driver with lifting and carrying packages to delivery locations. This may include navigating stairs, carrying heavy packages, and interacting with customers.
Unload and sort: At the end of the day, helping unload and sort packages for the next day’s deliveries.
Maintaining vehicle: Keeping the delivery vehicle clean and organized.

UPS Driver Helper Requirements

To become a UPS driver helper, you'll typically need:

Age: Most UPS locations require applicants to be at least 18 years old.
Physical ability: The job is physically demanding, requiring the ability to lift, carry, and move packages weighing up to 70 pounds. Stamina and strength are essential.
Valid driver's license: While you won't be driving the delivery truck, a valid driver's license is often a requirement.
Background check: UPS conducts thorough background checks as part of the hiring process.
Drug screening: Successful candidates will typically undergo a drug screening.

How Much Does a UPS Driver Helper Make?

Compensation varies based on location, experience, and union status. Research salaries in your specific area using online job boards and salary comparison websites like Glassdoor or Indeed. Keep in mind that hourly rates may increase with seniority and performance. Benefits packages are often included, as detailed below.

UPS Driver Helper Benefits

UPS typically offers a competitive benefits package, which may include:

Health insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Paid time off: Vacation and sick leave.
Retirement plan: A 401(k) or similar retirement savings plan.
Life insurance: Coverage for employees and their families.
Employee discounts: Discounts on UPS services and other products.

Note: Specific benefits may vary depending on location, employment status (full-time vs. part-time), and union affiliation. Always confirm details with your potential employer or HR department.

How to Apply for a UPS Driver Helper Position

The application process for a UPS driver helper position typically involves:

Online application: Submit an online application through the UPS careers website.
Interview: If your application is successful, you'll likely be invited for an interview. This may involve an assessment of your physical abilities.
Background check and drug screening: Successful candidates will undergo background and drug screenings.
Training: Once hired, you'll receive training on safe lifting techniques, package handling procedures, and UPS's delivery processes.

Is a UPS Driver Helper Job Right For You?

A UPS driver helper job is a good fit if you:

Enjoy physical work.
Are comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions.
Are a team player.
Can lift heavy packages repeatedly.
Are reliable and punctual.
Are comfortable following strict procedures.

Career Advancement Opportunities at UPS

While starting as a driver helper, you can pursue advancement opportunities within UPS, such as becoming a package car driver, supervisor, or even manager. UPS provides many training and development opportunities for its employees, offering a career path for those committed to the company.

Remember to research specific job postings and requirements in your area. The information provided here is general and may not reflect every location or circumstance. Good luck with your job search!