UTILITY COLLECTIONS- Meter Reader

cityoflufkin; Lufkin (TX); On-site; USD 17,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Lufkin is seeking a Meter Reader to collect water usage data from residential and commercial properties. You will operate handheld devices, record readings, and verify data accuracy while following safety protocols.

This non-exempt hourly position includes route optimization, meter inspections for damage, and customer interactions. Applicants must have a high school diploma and a valid driver’s license.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience in meter reading, field data collection, or customer service preferred but not required.
• Valid Driver's License required at placement time.

Responsibilities

• Physically read water meters and record readings accurately; note abnormalities.
• Follow assigned routes and schedules to ensure timely meter readings.
• Inspect meters for damage, tampering, or leaks and report issues to supervisors.
• Interact professionally with customers while performing readings and addressing questions.
• Record readings and data accurately on forms or devices, ensuring data integrity.
• Adhere to safety protocols and wear PPE while performing duties.
• Report readings, discrepancies, or abnormalities promptly with detailed documentation.
• Maintain and troubleshoot meter reading equipment and report malfunctions.
• Identify opportunities to optimize routes for efficiency and productivity.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Safety awareness

Data entry

Communication

Attention to detail

Outdoor work

Heavy lifting

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Handheld device

Mobile apps

PPE

Job description

Position: Meter Reader

Department: Utility Collections

Reports To: Meter Maintenance Supervisor

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Pay: $14.33 per hour

DESCRIPTION

The Meter Reader position is integral to the accurate and efficient collection of water usage data from residential and commercial properties. This role involves physical work, attention to detail, and adherence to safety protocols to ensure accurate meter readings and reliable utility billing.

QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Previous experience in meter reading, field data collection, or customer service roles is preferred but not required.
• Must possess a valid Driver's License at time of placement.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES

• Knowledge of and commitment to upholding safety standards and protocols, including awareness of potential hazards and adherence to safety guidelines.
• Skills and familiarity with computers and handheld devices or mobile applications for data entry and reporting purposes at a basic level.
• Skills in excellent communication and interpersonal abilities, with the ability to interact professionally with customers, coworkers, and supervisors.
• Ability to maintain a strong attention to detail and numerical accuracy, with the ability to accurately record meter readings and detect irregularities or abnormalities.
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and terrain, walking long distances and navigating residential and commercial properties to access water meter locations.
• Ability to perform repetitive tasks, lift and carry equipment over 50 pounds, and maneuver in tight spaces or difficult terrain.

MAJOR DUTIES

• Physically read water meters at residential and commercial properties using handheld devices or manual methods, accurately recording meter readings and noting any abnormalities or issues observed during the reading process.
• Follow assigned routes and schedules to ensure timely and thorough meter readings, adjusting routes as necessary to accommodate changes in customer accounts, meter locations, or seasonal factors.
• Inspect meters for damage, tampering, or leaks, reporting any issues or discrepancies to supervisors for further investigation and resolution, and documenting findings accurately.
• Interact with customers in a professional and courteous manner while performing meter readings, responding to inquiries, and providing assistance as needed to address questions or concerns regarding meter access or utility services.
• Record meter readings and related data accurately and legibly on designated forms, handheld devices, or electronic systems, ensuring data integrity and compliance with departmental standards and procedures.
• Adhere to safety protocols and procedures while performing meter reading duties, including wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), following traffic laws, and exercising caution around hazardous conditions or obstacles.
• Report completed meter readings, discrepancies, or abnormalities to supervisors or designated personnel promptly, providing detailed information and documentation as needed for follow-up actions.
• Maintain meter reading equipment in good working condition, performing basic maintenance tasks such as cleaning, calibration checks, and battery replacements, and reporting any equipment malfunctions or defects for repair or replacement.
• Identify opportunities to optimize meter reading routes for efficiency and productivity, collaborating with supervisors and colleagues to implement improvements and streamline processes.
• Other duties as assigned.

This position is an essential service position and will require providing services during emergency situations.