How to Be a Water Meter Reader
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, meter reading is among the fastest shrinking occupations. This change is due to technology advancements, including automated meter reading (AMR), which allows meter reading to be conducted more efficiently. However, there are still jobs in this industry. Although these positions are considered entry level and don't require much experience, those hired receive on-the-job training and can advance into management.
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Instructions
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Search for water meter reader positions with your local electric, water or gas company. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, water meter readers are entry-level employees, and the only requirement is having a high school diploma. These positions can be found directly at the company's websites or through job search engines (see Resources).
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Complete water meter applications. When filling out these applications, make sure to highlight experience in computers and other electronic devices. Although it's not required, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, companies hiring water meter readers prefer these skills.
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Attend water meter interviews. Once you land an interview, talk with the employer about skills that transfer to this occupation. For example, your ability to navigate new areas easily, handle electrical devices with ease and your own experience reading your water meter at home. Although these skills aren't mandatory, they are desirable.
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Negotiate your salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, as of May 2006, water meter readers earned $23,580 to $49,150 annually. Don't be afraid to make a counter-offer on salary. This will ensure you secure the best compensation available.
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Get on-the-job training. Once hired as a water meter reader, training will be conducted on the job. During this process, you'll work with an experienced water meter reader to learn how to read meters, to understand consumption rates and to learn the territory you must cover. After becoming proficient at these tasks, you will start working alone.
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Tips & Warnings
Talk with employers about routing details. Depending on your employer, some water meter readers travel several miles on foot. This is most common in densely populated areas and busy cities, where driving isn't practical. If walking these distances might be a challenge, talk with prospective employers about route details ahead of time.
Don't be surprised if jobs are scarce. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for water meters are shrinking. As of 2006, a decline of 10 percent by 2016 is expected.
