Meter Reader

Position Information: This position involves visiting various locations, such as residential or commercial properties, and recording the readings of water utility meters. Â The primary task is to accurately and efficiently read meters to measure water consumption for billing purposes. Â They may need to access meters in various locations, such as residential or commercial properties. Â Meter readers should have good communication skills to interact with customers and address any concerns. Â Attention to detail is crucial to avoid errors in meter readings and billing. Â Meter readers will need to be proficient in the use of handheld devices to record readings. Â They should be able to work independently and manage their time effectively.

This position is covered under the EBA collective bargaining agreement, visit the website, www.mylongview.com for a copy of the agreement. Â

The candidate selected for this position will be subject to passing a pre-employment criminal background check.Â

• Meter Reading: The main responsibility is to read meters and accurately record the consumption of water used by customers. Â This involves manually taking readings of meter dials and entering the data into a handheld device or laptop computer.
• Meter Box Maintenance: The position also involves general maintenance of meter boxes. Â This includes cleaning out sand and debris from the boxes and removing vegetation that may impede access to the meter box to allow for accurate reading of meters.
• Route Management: Â The meter reader will walk or drive a vehicle along established routes to take readings of meters. Â They will follow the assigned route and ensure that all meters are read within the designated timeframe.
• Reporting Problems: Any issues encountered during meter reading, such as damaged boxes or lids, obstructions to meter access, water in the meter box, or water leaks, should be reported to the supervisor and billing department.Â
• Re-Read Service Orders: Â The meter reader may be required to complete re-read service orders to verify readings incases where consumption appears to be abnormal. Â They will also record and report possible reasons for fluctuations in consumption.
• Recording Illegal Usage: Any instances of illegal usage of water should be recorded and reported to the supervisor and billing department for further action.Â
• Safety Compliance: The meter reader must follow all safety procedures, rules and regulations while performing their duties. This includes utilizing all necessary safety equipment to ensure personal safety.Â
• Customer Interaction: The position involves frequent interaction with people, including customers. Â Meter readers should provide courteous and professional service when interacting with customers.Â
• Documentation: Accurate recording keeping is importing in the role. The meter reader should maintain records of readings, maintenance activities, and any customer interactions or issues encountered during their duties.
• Outdoor Work: Majority of the work is performed outdoors, regardless of weather conditions. Â Meter readers should be prepared for working in various outdoor environments.Â
• Additional Responsibilities: The meter reader may be required to perform other related tasks as assigned, including special projects, and providing assistance to other divisions within the organization.
• Performs other duties as required.
• High School diploma or equivalent AND 2 years of related experience OR a combination of education, training and experience which would provide the required skills, knowledge and ability to perform the job as determined by the department. Â
• Possession of a valid Driver’s License

Required Knowledge And Skills

• Basic mathematical concepts and ability to perform mathematical calculations
• Knowledge of street layouts and meter locations in the City.
• Knowledge of the functional operation of water meters.
• Knowledge of the hazards involved in meter service and associated safety precautions.
• Knowledge of utility policies and procedures for initiating or terminating water service.
• Knowledge of operation of hand-held computer for recording meter readings and the loading of data into computer.
• Skill in conflict resolution and public relations.
• Ability to prepare records and reports of work activities.
• Ability to analyze problems and make decisions that resolve the problems and address the needs of the public and the City.
• Effective interpersonal and customer service skills to courteously deal with and to establish and maintain effective working relationships with co-workers, other City employees, vendors, local agencies and providers, and the general public. Â
• Work in a multi-task environment, be detailed-oriented, able to organize duties and set priorities to meet deadlines.
• Initiative to take action and be self-motivated. Â Work well independently as well as in a team or cooperative setting.
• Communicate in a professional business-like manner, both orally and in writing. Â Portray a professional image and attitude.
• Able to exercise discretion over sensitive and confidential issues related to the department and its business.
• Develop and maintain a general understanding of information that relates to the functions and services of the departments.
• The ability to handle job stress and interact effectively with others in the workplace.