Meter Readers, Utilities
Read meter and record consumption of electricity, gas, water, or steam.
SOC: 43-5041.00
Common Job Titles
- Meter Reader
- Meter Technician
- Water Meter Reader
- Water Use Inspector
What You'll Need to Succeed
AI-generatedKey competencies for this occupation at a glance
- Hands-onOperate electricity, gas, water, and steam consumption meters in residential and commercial settings following established utility protocols.Developing
- KnowledgeRecord utility consumption data and meter readings using automatic meter reading systems and handheld devices to ensure accuracy.Developing
- Hands-onInspect meter equipment and surrounding structures during field routes to identify irregularities, damage, or safety hazards.Developing
- KnowledgeInterpret meter readings and consumption patterns to detect anomalies such as leaks, tampering, or equipment malfunction.Developing
- MindsetEngage customers to address meter access issues, billing inquiries, and service concerns while maintaining professional courtesy and service orientation.Developing
- KnowledgeOrganize daily route schedules and meter reading assignments using GPS devices and mapping software to optimize time management and coverage.Developing
- Hands-onOperate utility vehicles and handheld technology to navigate assigned routes safely in varied weather and terrain conditions.Developing
- KnowledgeApply public safety and security protocols when accessing private property, confined spaces, or hazardous utility environments.Developing
- KnowledgeUtilize meter reading software, billing systems, and Microsoft Office applications to process consumption data and generate service reports.Developing
- MindsetRespond to customer service inquiries and complaints by actively listening, explaining utility policies, and coordinating with supervisors to resolve issues.Developing
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics
Annual wage data for Meter Readers, Utilities (2024)
Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)
19,620
Wage Distribution by Percentile
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $33,980. 25th percentile: U.S. $39,620. 50th percentile: U.S. $49,180. 75th percentile: U.S. $68,030. 90th percentile: U.S. $86,480. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
- U.S.
| Metric | U.S. |
|---|---|
| 10% of workers earn the following or less | $33,980 |
| 10% of workers earn the following or more | $86,480 |
| Workers on average earn | $55,810 |
+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)
Skills & Requirements
Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance
- Customer and Personal Service3.7/5
- Public Safety and Security3.5/5
- English Language3.4/5
- Mathematics3.1/5
- Mechanical2.9/5
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
In-Demand Technology
Frequently requested by employers in job postings
- Microsoft Access
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft Office software
- Microsoft Outlook
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Microsoft Windows
- Microsoft Word
Technology Skills
- Billing software
- Geographic information system GIS systems
- Graphing software
- Mapping software
- Meter reading software
- Supervisory control and data acquisition SCADA software
- Word processing software
Tools & Equipment
- Automatic meter reading systems
- Copy machines
- Dataloggers
- Desktop computers
- Digital multimeters
- Digital still cameras
- Electricity consumption meters
- Garden shovels