Meter Technician

GENERAL PURPOSE

Performs skilled maintenance duties as needed to assure the proper operation of metering devices and the regular reading of city utility service meters, water meters to determine customer consumption for billing purposes. Assists as public works crew member as needed.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED

Works under the general supervision of the Water Supervisor.

SUPERVISION EXERCISED

None

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Meter Reading: Receives meter reading schedules; walks or drives truck over established route(s); locates residential and commercial meters and reads meter dials; utilizes MVRS, FDM and mobile collector instruments for electronic or "auto-reading" of meters.

Inspects meters and connections for defects, damage, and unauthorized connections; adjusts meter reading devices; checks readings to locate abnormal consumption and records reasons for fluctuation; performs visual inspections of plumbing to locate water leaks; implements billing adjustments for bad meter reads or incorrect utility rates.

Confronts various obstacles in location meters (i.e., fences, locked yards, dogs, etc.); uses ingenuity in reaching meter to conduct reading; performs general meter maintenance as needed to ensure the accuracy of meter readings.

Performs gas, electric and water service connect and disconnect functions as directed by utilities staff or supervisor(s); computer enters new meter connects for customer accounts; as needed, dispatches various requests to servicing departments and coordinates technical services.

Performs various field GIS related functions to document locations of meters in parks, properties, homes and commercial establishments.

General Labor: Serves as a member of utilities maintenance crew as needed; may assist with water, gas, and electric street or sewer projects; may operate light equipment in the performance various service projects.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

1. Education and Experience:

1. Graduation from high school; plus, one (1) year of specialized training provided through vocational college or industry workshops, conferences, courses, etc.;

AND

1. Six (6) months performing above or related duties;

OR

1. An equivalent combination of education and experience.

1. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

Some knowledge of basic operations of gas, electric and water metering equipment; water valve mechanical operation; basic truck/motor vehicle operation; interpersonal communication skills; tools, instruments, equipment used in the operation, maintenance, and construction of the water meter system. OSHA safety standards and EPA water standards and other related local, state , and federal regulations.

Skill in interpersonal communications and customer service; the operation of various types of light equipment, basic mechanics.

Ability to operate an automobile effectively and safely; write or make numeric recordings legible or understandably; communicate effectively, verbally and in writing; follow and established work routine requiring little instruction; develop effective working relationships with supervisors, the public, and fellow employees.

1. Special Qualifications:

Must possess a valid driver's license. May be required to possess or obtain a class "B" commercial driver's license (CDL). Most possess a "clean" driving record.

1. Work Environment:

Workers in this position are exposed daily to changing weather conditions and seasonal elements. Tasks require variety of physical activities involving some muscular strain, such as walking, standing, stooping, sitting, reaching, and lifting. Talking, hearing and seeing essential to performance of assigned duties. Common eye, hand, finger dexterity required to complete mechanical tasks and manipulate hand tools. Mental application utilizes memory for details, verbal instructions, emotional stability, discriminating thinking. Workplace stress associated with customer service can be an everyday occurrence. Regular travel by city vehicle required in the normal course of completing daily work assignments.

Salary : $21 - $23