Meter Reader

Your Fit

Income

$49K

Preparation

Some

Growth

-12.2%

Definition
Your fit with this career
How much they earn
What they do
Job satisfaction
How to become

What is a Meter Reader?

A Meter Reader is responsible for accurately recording the consumption data of utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and steam. They visit residential, commercial, and industrial premises to read meters and ensure accurate billing.

Your test results

Why this fit score?

The fit report shows your areas of fit and misfit with Meter Reader.

Fit report

Test scores

The scores report summarizes what we learned about you. It shows your results on everything measured in the career test.

Scores report

How much does a Meter Reader earn

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical income (in USD) is...

Bottom 10%	Bottom 25%	Median (average)	Top 25%	Top 10%
$34K per year	$40K per year	$49K per year	$68K per year	$86K per year

Compared to other careers: Median is $320 below the national average.

See income by country/state/province

What does a Meter Reader do?

Work environment

Meter Readers typically work outdoors, traveling to various locations to read meters. The job involves a significant amount of walking and exposure to all weather conditions. Some meter reading can be done remotely through electronic systems, but manual reading still constitutes a large part of the job.

Quick task list

Travels to and accesses meters at different locations.
Accurately records meter readings for utility billing.
Inspects meters for defects or signs of tampering.
Reports metering irregularities or potential safety hazards.
Interacts with customers and answers basic inquiries about metering.

See full list of tasks with expert relevance ratings

Areas of specialization

Residential Meter Reading: Focusing on meters in individual homes.
Commercial Meter Reading: Specializing in meter reading at business and commercial properties.
Industrial Meter Reading: Dealing with large-scale industrial utility meters.
Remote Meter Reading: Specializing in the use of technology for remote metering data collection.
Utility Auditing: Inspecting and ensuring the accuracy of meter readings and utility billing.

Description

Meter Readers play an essential role in the utility industry by ensuring accurate billing based on actual consumption. This role requires attention to detail to accurately record meter readings and report any issues. The job involves a mix of indoor and outdoor work, including navigating various environments to locate and read meters.

The work can be physically demanding, involving walking, bending, and occasionally working in cramped spaces. Meter Readers need to be comfortable working independently and managing their schedule efficiently. Knowledge of basic technology is increasingly important as more utilities move towards remote and electronic meter reading systems.

This occupation offers the opportunity to work outside of a traditional office setting and provides a degree of autonomy in daily tasks. Career advancement might include roles in utility operations, customer service, or supervisory positions within the meter reading department.

Job Satisfaction

Sources of satisfaction

The independence and variety provided by working in different locations.
Contributing to the accuracy and efficiency of utility services.
Physical activity and the opportunity to work outdoors.

You might make a good Meter Reader if you are...

Detail-oriented, ensuring accurate data recording.
Comfortable working independently and managing your schedule.
Physically fit and able to work in various weather conditions.
Good at navigating and familiar with local areas.
Interested in a role that combines outdoor activity with utility services.

Pros:

Regular physical activity and time spent outdoors.
Independence in daily work with a clear set of tasks.
Opportunities for employment across various utility sectors.

Cons:

Exposure to adverse weather conditions.
Physical demands, including walking and bending.
Limited career progression without further education or training.

How to become a Meter Reader

Typical education

A high school diploma or equivalent is usually sufficient for this role. On-the-job training is commonly provided, and familiarity with basic technology and data entry is helpful.

High school preparation

Courses:

Geography or local area studies to become familiar with navigating different locations.
Basic technology or computer classes for handling data entry and electronic devices.
Physical education to maintain a good level of physical fitness.

Extra-Curricular Activities:

Joining orienteering or hiking clubs to get accustomed to navigating various terrains.
Participating in community service that involves outdoor activities.
Engaging in sports or physical activities to build stamina and fitness.

Preparation after high school

Vocational training in utilities or related fields.
Short courses or certifications in data entry or basic technology.
Internships or entry-level positions in utility companies for on-the-job experience.

More resources

American Public Power Association (APPA) - Offers resources and information for those interested in public utility services.
Utility Workers Union of America (UWUA) - Provides information on careers and training in the utility sector.
National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) - Offers insights into rural utility services and career opportunities.
O*NET Online - Comprehensive resource for detailed information on various occupations, including Meter Readers.

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