Graphic Production Artist

I got started in the graphic arts trade one week after graduating from high school at age 17 and 3 months. I obtained a four-year apprenticeship as a Compositor. I obtained my journeyman's card at age 21. I served in the graphic arts trade for 26+ years.

But, because the trade had continued to become deskilled due to Macintosh computers -- and the desktop publishing programs that run on them -- my wages and benefits just kept getting worse and worse.

I finally got an offer to work for the U.S. Postal Service. I said to myself "I don't care what job they've got for me, I'm taking it." It was an unregrettable choice. I was making $24/hour. Unfortunately, serious health problems forced me to resign. I am eligible for rehire, but there's one big catch. Someone, somewhere, has to be hiring. Since I don't have time to hold my breath, I am seeking to get back into my old trade. I am brushing up on my skills on my own, as I await going back to school.

Meanwhile, I hope to get back with the U.S. Postal Service as I continue to watch this economy suck.

How do people these days get a job with the US Postal service when they are hiring? I wonder if they really will go to the 5 day delivery instead of the 6 day delivery we are accustomed to? I would love to work with the postal service.