Meter Reader [United States]

 

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY

This position is responsible for the accurate and timely reading and recording of water meters to facilitate customer billing. Work is performed in a fast-paced, production-driven environment on assigned routes in accordance with established standards for number and accuracy of reads. An employee in this position is expected to detect and report atypical conditions, such as: identifying damaged, malfunctioning, and tampered meters; and detecting and reporting leaks and other safety hazards. There is significant customer contact requiring tact and diplomacy in dealing with problems and complaints.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

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  Operates a vehicle along an assigned route to read and record usage data, utilizing handheld computer/tablet to collect and record meter reads and complete daily work order assignments.
• Completes assigned meter reading routes within established performance standards.
• Checks equipment for damage, faults, unauthorized equipment, or third-party connections.
• Re-reads meters as requested; assists customers with questions regarding consumption and identifies potential leakage problems.
• Refers problem reads and/or meters that could not be read to a supervisor.
• Creates monthly reports for Utility Billing and Water Department.
• Activates or deactivates meters as instructed.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES REQUIRED BY THE POSITION

• Knowledge of City and department safety policies and procedures.
• Knowledge of meter reading principles and practices.
• Knowledge and understanding of simple geography relating to local streets and roadways.
• Skill in the use of handheld computers and job-related software.
• Skill in the operation of assigned vehicles and equipment.
• Skill in problem solving.
• Skill in interpersonal relations.
• Skill in oral and written communication.
• Ability to work independently.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The Utility Services Supervisor assigns work in terms of general instructions. The supervisor spot-checks completed work for compliance with instructions, accuracy, and the nature and propriety of the final results.

GUIDELINES

Guidelines include municipal codes and department policies and procedures. These guidelines are generally clear and specific but may require some interpretation in application.

COMPLEXITY/SCOPE OF WORK

• The work consists of related meter reading and customer service duties. Inclement weather and field conditions contribute to the complexity of the position.
• The purpose of this position is to record utility usage data. Successful performance contributes to the efficient and effective recording of that data and the accurate billing of customers.

CONTACTS

• Contacts are typically with coworkers, customers, and the general public.
• Contacts are typically to give or exchange information, resolve problems, and provide services.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

• The work is typically performed while sitting in a vehicle or at a desk or table or while intermittently sitting, standing, or stooping. The employee frequently lifts light and occasionally heavy objects and uses tools or equipment requiring a high degree of dexterity.
• The work is typically performed in an office and outdoors setting, occasionally in cold or inclement weather. The employee may be exposed to dust, dirt, and grease. Employee must be able to comfortably confront and control dogs on their own territory to gain access to meters.
• Work requires the use of protective devices such as masks, goggles, gloves, etc. and frequently requires the clean out of water meter tiles which may house spiders, lizards, snakes, bees, and wasps.

SUPERVISORY AND MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY

None.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to read, write and perform mathematical calculations at a level commonly associated with the completion of high school or equivalent.
• Sufficient experience to understand the basic principles relevant to the major duties of the position, usually associated with the completion of an apprenticeship/internship or having had a similar position for one to two years.
• Possession of or ability to readily obtain a valid driver’s license issued by the State of Washington for the type of vehicle or equipment operated.
• All applicants must be able to successfully pass a background check process which includes reference checks and criminal history checks or other.

The statements contained herein reflect general details necessary to describe principal functions of this job, the level of knowledge and skills typically required, and the scope of responsibility; and such statements should not be considered all-inclusive. Individuals may perform other duties as assigned, including work in other functional areas, to cover absences or relief, to equalize peak work periods, or to balance workloads.

Management reserves the sole right to add, modify or exclude any duties at any time with or without notice. Nothing in this job description, nor by completion of any job requirements by the employee, is intended to create a contract of employment.

At its sole discretion, the City of Moses Lake may consider combinations of education, experience, certifications, and training in lieu of specifically required qualifications contained herein.

Company Description

Moses Lake is a diverse, connected and supportive community of innovation and opportunity that values its namesake lake, small town vibe, growing arts and cultural scene, aerospace, manufacturing and agricultural heritage, and an abundance of sunshine and outdoor activities.

Working for the City will afford you the opportunity to support the vision of Moses Lake, grow professionally, and work among diverse and dedicated staff with a goal to provide a service-oriented government that works with all interests in the community to implement our vision.

Our location and climate allow our residents to enjoy a variety of interests surrounding the Moses Lake community. Moses Lake is centrally located between Seattle and Spokane on Highway I-90 between fields of agriculture, freshwater lakes, vineyards and popular recreational destinations.

Moses Lake boosts active community parks and events, athletic venues and tournaments, a campground, and the popular Surf 'n Slide water park. The surrounding Columbia Basin area is filled with wine tours, a wildlife refuge, the Gorge Amphitheater, local fresh markets with direct-from-the-farm produce, and boutiques.

Benefits

The City of Moses Lake offers a comprehensive benefits package. Employees (and their families) are eligible to enroll in medical, dental, and vision coverage. In addition to basic life insurance coverage, AD&D, dependent life, additional life insurance, long-term disability, EAP and LifeFlight are also offered. Retirement is through the Department of Retirement Systems - Public Employees Retirement System. Optional deferred compensation is offered with a City match of up to 2% of the employee's base salary. Employees of the City receive eleven (11) paid holidays plus one (1) floating holiday annually. Vacation accrual begins at 12 days annually and increases with years of service. Sick leave is accrued at the rate of eight (8) hours per month.

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