A high school diploma and a valid driver’s license are usually required to become a meter reader, and the utility company will teach meter reading skills on the job. This and other utility jobs may include perks like health insurance and paid vacation, as well as contributions to retirement and other benefit accounts. People who are interested in a career in this field may go on to become supervisors and trainers, and their pay will gradually rise as time goes on.
Utilities that have meter reader openings will advertise them, and anyone interested in becoming a meter reader can contact the utility office to see if any are available. A high school diploma is usually required, and employment references may be requested. Meter readers are usually required to drive a route in a vehicle provided by the utility company, so they must have a valid driver’s license.
A meter reader in training will work under the supervision of a more experienced employee. This person can teach the trainee how to read meters and record data correctly. Trainees may also be taught about different routes and given tips on how to complete them as quickly as possible. They might talk about meter tampering and how to spot signs of tampering, as well as unusual utility usage that could indicate a leak or other problem at the consumer’s end.
A meter reader can read gas, electric, and water meters. However, due to the introduction of automated meter reading in the early 2000s, employment in this field began to decline. Unless there is a problem with the system, in which case a technician will need to travel to the site to check on it, these electronic systems can record meter data without the need for a meter reader. Although there may still be openings for meter readers, the long-term outlook for these jobs is uncertain.
In large cities with major utility companies, electronic meter-reading systems are more likely to be in use. If you want to work as a meter reader, you should look for work in a small town or with a small utility company that is close to home. Long-term jobs are more likely in such environments, and job applications can benefit from demonstrating familiarity with the area. A native’s intimate knowledge of the streets and layout, for example, can be extremely valuable in a small town.