Meter Reader Trainee

HOURLY RATE: $25.75 – $31.30

JOB SUMMARY:

Under the general supervision of the Customer Service Supervisor performs a variety of activities related to meter reading, including water service connects/disconnects, route maintenance, and field investigations. Meets with customers to discuss abnormal water consumption and/or other customer concerns. Applies all standard safety practices. Meter Reader Trainee is an entry level position; Meter Reader Trainee may be promoted to Meter Reader once proficient in all duties of the position.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1.        Locates meters and performs manual meter reads on residential, commercial and a variety of other property types throughout the District and records readings in a hand-held computer; notes irregularities (such as high usage or leaks). Uses a mobile automated meter reading system to collect meter reads on a designated route.

 2.        Reports meter-related problems. Identifies and troubleshoots malfunctioning meters. Performs and/or assists with minor field repairs; replaces meter boxes and lids, meters and/or related equipment, as required.

 3.        Performs field investigations including, but not limited to, rechecking for unusual reads. Completes a variety of daily service order related tasks. Assists Water Conservation Specialist with water waste investigations, as needed.

 4.        Assists in planning meter route changes and maintains current meter location instructions for use by other District personnel.

 5.        Meets with customers to investigate abnormal consumption or other customer concerns and to discuss and/ or resolve meter obstructions and other compliance issues Answers billing and policy questions while in the field whenever possible.

 6.        Performs water service connects and disconnects as assigned.

 7.        Engages in weed abatement and other route “grooming” activities using hand, power and other tools as required.

 8.        Identifies, documents and reports unauthorized water use and instances of cross-connection to appropriate District personnel.

 9.        Performs related work as assigned.

  

QUALIFICATIONS:

 Education and experience equivalent to graduation from high school.

 Must have a valid California driver’s license and be acceptable to the District’s automobile insurance carriers.

 Must establish and maintain effective working relations with other District personnel and promote good relations with the public.

 MUST DEMONSTRATE SKILLS NECESSARY TO:

 ·        Walk for long distances and in potentially harsh weather conditions and challenging terrain.

·        Read, and record numbers accurately.

·        Must be able to self-motivate and work well with minimal supervision.

·        Display sound judgment to make decisions in the field within established District parameters.

·        Use a hand held computer and personal computer in a network environment.

·        Read, understand and apply oral and written information.

·        Operate a vehicle observing legal and defensive driving practices.

·        Ability to communicate effectively with customers and co-workers both orally and in writing. Conduct business in a professional manner.

·        Must promote good relations with the public. During potentially stressful situations with customers, must have the ability to remain calm and de-escalate the encounter.

·        Must be flexible to unexpected changes and manage work time effectively.

·        Speak, write and read the English language.

·        Ability to apply and follow all standard safety practices.