What does a Meter Reader do?
Published 3 min read
A meter reader is a person who reads the meters for utilities such as water, gas, or electricity.
Meter Reader job duties include:
- Read residential, commercial, and industrial meters
- Record meter readings and consumption rates
- Investigate and resolve customer inquiries
- Respond to customer requests for new or additional service
- Perform field inspections to ensure meters are installed correctly
- Notify customers of impending service disconnections
- Reconnect service after payment is received
- Update customer information in computer system
- Generate reports on meter reading activities
Meter Reader Job Requirements
Meter readers are responsible for reading and recording the amount of water, gas, or electricity used by customers. They may work for utilities companies or other organizations that use meters to track resource consumption. Meter readers typically have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may require meter readers to complete on-the-job training. Many meter readers learn their trade through on-the-job training. Some states require certification for natural gas and electricity meter readers.
Meter Reader Skills
- Good customer service skills
- Walking long distances
- Climbing stairs
- Bending, stooping, and kneeling
- Working in all types of weather conditions
- Lifting up to 50 pounds
- Driving a company vehicle
- Accurately reading meters
- Recording readings in a handheld device
- Completing paperwork
- Adhering to safety rules and regulations
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How to become a Meter Reader
A Meter Reader is responsible for reading and recording the consumption of utilities at commercial and residential properties. This position requires accuracy and precision as readings are used to generate invoices for customers. Meter Readers typically work for utility companies, but may also be employed by municipalities.
To become a Meter Reader, one must have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may require post-secondary education, but it is typically not necessary. Many Meter Readers are trained on the job. New hires usually start out working with an experienced Meter Reader to learn the ropes.
Meter Readers typically work full time, but some positions may be part time or seasonal. The job can be physically demanding as it involves walking long distances and being exposed to the elements.
If you’re interested in becoming a Meter Reader, contact your local utility company or municipality to inquire about open positions.
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