Meter readers, utilities
SOC Code: 43-5041Also known as:
Customer Field Representative, Electric Meter Reader, Facilities Technician (Facilities Tech), Field Service Engineer, Field Technician
Median Annual Salary
$49,180
-12.0% growth (2024-2034)
1K
Openings/Year
20K
Current Jobs
What Meter readers, utilities Do
Read meter and record consumption of electricity, gas, water, or steam.
💰 Salary
$49,180
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
-12.0%
Decline
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
1K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Short-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
20,100
Projected Employment (2034)
17,700
Related Careers
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Top Skills Required
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Speaking
Critical Thinking
Service Orientation
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Read electric, gas, water, or steam consumption meters and enter data in route books or hand-held computers.
- Upload into office computers all information collected on hand-held computers during meter rounds, or return route books or hand-held computers to business offices so that data can be compiled.
- Walk or drive vehicles along established routes to take readings of meter dials.
- Inspect meters for unauthorized connections, defects, and damage, such as broken seals.
- Verify readings in cases where consumption appears to be abnormal, and record possible reasons for fluctuations.
- Report to service departments any problems, such as meter irregularities, damaged equipment, or impediments to meter access, including dogs.
- Leave messages to arrange different times to read meters in cases in which meters are not accessible.
- Connect and disconnect utility services at specific locations.
- Answer customers' questions about services and charges, or direct them to customer service centers.
- Update client address and meter location information.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
College Rankings
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do meter readers, utilities make?
The median annual salary for meter readers, utilities is $49,180.
What education do meter readers, utilities need?
Most meter readers, utilities positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Is becoming meter readers, utilities a good career choice?
Meter readers, utilities is projected to see -12.0% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which reflects some decline in the field. With approximately 1,300 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for meter readers, utilities?
The best colleges offer strong programs in related fields with experienced faculty and industry connections.
What other job titles are similar to meter readers, utilities?
Meter readers, utilities may also be known as: Customer Field Representative, Electric Meter Reader, Facilities Technician (Facilities Tech), Field Service Engineer, Field Technician, Fieldman, Gas Meter Reader, Meter Reader, Meter Reader Inspector, Meter Reading Clerk, Meter Record Clerk, Meter Technician, Meterman, Steam Meter Reader, Utilities Technician, Utility Meter Technician, Utility Service Worker, Utility Technician, Water Inspector, Water Meter Reader.
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.