Meter Reader

City of Hammond; United States; On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A municipal utility department is seeking a Utility Meter Reader to record readings on water meters, inspect for defects, and interact with customers. Candidates must have a valid driver's license and be willing to work outdoors. This role involves physical activity and the ability to communicate effectively with the public. Experience is helpful, but not required.

Qualifications

• Must possess a valid driver's license.
• Must be prepared to work outdoors.
• Ability to learn how to read water meters using electronic equipment.

Responsibilities

• Drive along a route and record readings on meters.
• Inspect meters for defects and monitor for tampering.
• Respond on-site to inquiries from customers.

Skills

Communication

Customer service

Mathematical principles

Problem investigation

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Handheld meter reader

Computer

Class C motor vehicle

Job description

Description

A Utility Meter Reader includes but not limited to the following duties:

1. Must possess a valid driver's license
2. Must be capable to drive along a route and record the readings on meters
3. Inspection of meters for defects
4. Monitoring meters for abnormal usage,
5. Monitoring for tampering that may indicate unlawful usage
6. Must be prepared to work outdoors
7. Must be able to communicate with clients in a calm and professional manner
8. Practice Safety at all times by avoiding dogs and other obstacles when walking onto unknown property.

Examples of Duties

Reads water meters by means of electronic meter reading equipment; reviews readings to check on meter functions, meter consistency, and unusual meter conditions.

Reports meter defects and conditions of meters; unblocks and digs out buried meters; cleans registers and meter boxes; inspects water meter connections for leaks and replaces washers on meter connections; repairs or replaces faulty water meters, meter boxes, lids, stops, connections, and re-setters.

Checks water service for leaks; measures the amount of water lost due to leaks repairs meter leaks; removes and replaces meters.

Installs meters on contractor taps and service lines; turns on water for new customers; turns water off when directed.

Responds on-site to inquiries from customers; explains water service procedures; answers questions related to the meter reading process.

Prepares reports of work completed; follows-up on repair and installations and customer concerns.

Assists with other public works projects; and performs other duties, as required. Performs related duties and responsibilities as required.

NOTE: These examples are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed in positions allocated to the classes.

The omission-of specific statements of duties does not exclude them
from the position if the work is similar, related, or a logical assignment to the position.

Typical Qualifications

Knowledge of:
Basic mathematical principles, including decimals and percentages

• Principles and practices of customer service

Skill to:

• Operate various 'types of equipment including a handheld meter reader, computer, and Class C motor vehicle

Ability to:

Walk or stand for extended periods of time.
Bend, stoop, crawl, climb, and lift as necessary to perform field duties
Learn how to read water meters using electronic hand-held meter reading equipment

• Communicate clearly and effectively, both orally and in writing
• Follow oral and written instructions
• Perform simple arithmetical calculations quickly and accurately
• Investigate and handle disputes and complaints in a courteous and tactful manner
• Establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with the general public, City staff, and others encountered in the course of work
• Evaluate situations, identify problems, and exercise sound independent judgment within established guidelines

Acceptable Training and Experience:

High school diploma or equivalent. Experience helpful but not required.

Certification and License: