How much do you think mail carriers start out in pay now? $19 hr. It's a lot harder job than you think it is, and when you factor toxic management, and entitled assholes into the mix, it's not worth it.
But . . . it could be for some people. To me it takes a certain mindset and forward thinking towards life's goals.
I was fortunate to start at The County 2 months short of turning 19. I lasted 5 years 10 months and ran.
In hindsight if I wasn't so full of piss and vinegar I might have had a decent and tolerable life with the long range goals.
My last boss Art V. at The County was quite a character and a Triple Dipper. Retired Air Force after positioning missle silos, CalTrans highway work and lastly County Surveyor and was involved with several Apprenticeship Committees ( Sheet Metal, Electricians, Survey-Operating Engineers ) that I know of.
He was always happy, helpful and understanding. Busy yes, work hard yes, happy with wife at home ? Unknown.