Meter Reader

City of Hammond; United States; On-site; USD 40,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Hammond is seeking a Utility Meter Reader to perform field meter reading, meter inspection, and accurate data collection using electronic equipment. The role involves outdoor work, driving a vehicle, and interacting with customers in a calm, professional manner.

Must possess a valid driver’s license and be prepared to work outdoors while following safety guidelines. Reports and records form part of daily duties, with opportunities to support other public works tasks as needed.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent. Experience helpful but not required.
• Basic mathematical principles, including decimals and percentages.
• Principles and practices of customer service

Responsibilities

• Read water meters using electronic meter reading equipment and verify readings.
• Inspect meters for defects and leaks; report issues as needed.
• Record readings and prepare reports on meter conditions.
• Drive to routes and operate meters, communicating with customers professionally.
• Assist with other public works tasks as required.

Skills

Customer service

Written and verbal communication

Mathematical calculations

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: