What are the responsibilities and job description for the Meter Technician position at City of Deer Park, TX?
GENERAL PURPOSE
The primary role is to support the utility billing function by accurately and promptly reading meters each month. This position also involves customer service, billing activities, and performing semi-skilled utility work related to the reading and operation of utility meters, along with other tasks as needed to assist the water and sewer system's utility billing function.
SUPERVISION RECEIVED
Works under the general supervision of a Crew Leader and the Utility Billing Manager.
SUPERVISION EXERCISED
None.
A Meter Technician is responsible for verifying meter readings for residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, primarily utilizing our Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). The role may also involve collecting delinquent and final bill payments as needed.
Key Responsibilities:
- Verify and record meter readings for various properties, ensuring accuracy.
- Respond to work orders for utility disconnections, reconnections, new service orders, and other service requests as assigned.
- Recheck meter readings to identify abnormal consumption patterns and analyze potential causes for fluctuations.
- Interact courteously with residents and City employees to enhance customer service.
- Maintain a professional demeanor at all times while performing duties.
PERIPHERAL DUTIES
Inspects meters and connections for defects, damage and unauthorized connection or use and reports findings to supervisor.
Assists in the installation, maintenance, and repair of residential meters; meter boxes and areas adjacent to meter locations; and test meters for accuracy.
Education and Experience
This is an entry-level position that requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with a valid driver’s license. The Meter Technician must possess a satisfactory driving record and the ability to operate a city vehicle. While no specific certifications are required for this role, prior experience in reading and servicing Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) meters or in the building trades is considered advantageous.
Comprehensive on-the-job training will be provided by the crew leader and experienced Meter Technicians, covering the skills necessary to read, maintain, and troubleshoot various types of meters. The Meter Technician is expected to acquire knowledge in locating meters, identifying water leaks, and recognizing unusual readings that may indicate underlying issues.
Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
Meter Technicians must possess good vision, physical endurance, and manual dexterity to effectively complete their tasks in a timely manner. The ability to safely operate a truck and handle necessary equipment is essential. Meter Technicians will be required to drive and perform their duties in various and often inclement weather conditions.
Strong spatial awareness is necessary for interpreting maps and navigating routes efficiently. Given the nature of their role, Meter Technicians should demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills, employing courtesy and tact when interacting with the public. They must be able to maintain composure in high-pressure situations.
Attention to detail and precision are critical, as these attributes enable Meter Technicians to produce accurate records and readings. They should be capable of working both collaboratively as part of a team and independently with minimal oversight. Compliance with City rules and procedures is expected at all times.
SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
None.
TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT USED
Pencil, hand-held computer, calculator, mobile radio/phone, shovels, and other applicable hand tools. Must have the ability to safely drive a car or truck.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Work involves nearly continuous walking in all weather conditions, and considerable bending, stooping, stretching, and lifting.
A meter technician must occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Specific vision abilities are required to perform this job, including close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
While performing the duties of this job, a meter reader will be constantly required to stand, reach, walk, bend or stoop, and use hands to finger, handle, feel or operate objects, tools or controls. A meter technician is required to be able to sit, climb, balance, kneel, crouch, crawl, talk, and hear.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
The work environment described here is representative of those a meter technician may encounter while performing the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, a meter technician regularly works in outside weather conditions, and is frequently exposed to wet and/or humid conditions and may occasionally be exposed to the risk of electrical shock. There is also frequent exposure to dogs, snakes, and/or insects.
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
SELECTION GUIDELINES
Formal application, rating of education and experience; in-person interview and reference checks; job related tests may be required.
The duties listed above are illustrative of the various types of work that may be performed by a meter reader. The omission of specific statements or job duties does not exclude them from the position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment for the position.
The job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee and is subject to change by the employer as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.
