Meter Readers, Utilities
Office and Administrative Support
Follows an established route on foot or by vehicle, reading electric, gas, water, or steam meters and entering figures in a route book or hand-held computer. Data from the round is uploaded or returned to the office so usage can be compiled. Inspects meters for broken seals, damage, defects, or unauthorized connections, and verifies readings when consumption looks off, noting possible reasons. Reports access problems, including dogs, and equipment issues to the service department, leaves a message when a meter cannot be reached, and connects or disconnects service at assigned locations. Suits people who like outdoor route work, careful records, and noticing when a meter or reading looks wrong.
Typical education: High School Diploma or GED
Annual Median Wage in Field (2025)
$48'150
Median Wage Market Position
$48'150
What you might do
- Read electric, gas, water, or steam meters
- Enter readings in a handheld computer
- Walk or drive a set meter route
- Inspect meters for damage or broken seals
- Recheck readings when use looks unusually high
- Connect or disconnect utility service at customer sites
Skills that matter
- Meter reading along an assigned route
- Usage entered in handheld computers
- Damage and tamper checks on meters
- Abnormal usage double-checked and noted
- Messages left when meters are blocked
- Connecting or disconnecting utility service
AI & the future of this role
Smart meters and remote reads already cut the need to visit properties and record usage by hand. Remaining site checks and problem investigations still require people, but overall demand for this walk-around work is likely to keep shrinking.
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Includes O*NET® 30.3 Database information by USDOL/ETA under CC BY 4.0; modified by LostInCareer. Wage/outlook from BLS. Attribution details