The City of Lancaster is searching for a candidate for a Meter Reader position in the Utilities Collection Office.

JOB SUMMARY:

Under general supervision, performs duties associated with reading gas, water and sewer meters, meter routes and meter inspections. Interacts with customers in a professional manner and addresses questions and resolves complaints, reports abnormal or suspicious meter conditions or usage.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: (These are intended only as illustrations of the various types of work performed. The omission of specific duties does not exclude them from this position if the work is similar, related or a logical assignment to this class).

Reads, gas, water and sewer meters used by residential, country, commercial and industrial customers to facilitate customer billing.

Responds to customer inquiries regarding meter reading schedule, how meters are read and other customer service- related matters. Interacts with customers relative to meter location or access issues in person, by phone or in writing.

Walks and drives truck over established routes and obtains readings of meter dials using handheld computer and touch gun.

Inspects meters and connections for defects, atmospheric corrosion, leaks, damages and unauthorized connections; compares current utility usage to previous usage data to identify inoperative or damaged meters, bypassed meters and related problems to the Superintendent.

Indicates irregularities on forms for necessary action by the Gas and Water Departments.

Inspects suspicious odors for possible gas leaks, reporting such immediately to the Lancaster Municipal Gas Department.

Uploads and downloads information to and from hand-held meter reading devices.

Reviews readings to locate abnormal consumption and records reasons for fluctuation.

Sequences the order in which meters are read to increase reading efficiency.

Assists other Meter Readers as necessary to maintain reading and or billing schedule.

Performs other duties as related to the essential functions.

KNOWLEDGE SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

Ability to organize, prioritize and maintain accurate records.

Ability to operate computer, hand held computer, touch gun, two –way radio, copy machine, fax machine, printer, and calculator. Proficiency in computer applications including Outlook, Word, Excel.

Ability to listen and determine the needs of customers; ability to find and communicate accurate information concerning processes, policies and procedures to customers; ability to respond to customers in a tactful, friendly and professional manner.

Ability to perform basic mathematical computations with a good degree of accuracy.

Ability to walk long distances, lift heavy objects and work in adverse weather conditions for long periods of time.

Ability to work independently or in a team environment.

Knowledge of City of Lancaster Streets preferred.

Any equivalent combination of education, experience and training that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities will be considered.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

High School Diploma or equivalent and a minimum one (1) year of customer service experience is preferred.

Must possess and maintain a valid Ohio Driver’s License and be insurable through the City’s vehicle policy.

Must have dependable and insurable vehicle for purpose of getting to and from each route.

Must pass physical examination, drug screen, driving record check and criminal background investigation.

PROBATIONARY PERIOD: 270 days

The City of Lancaster is an Equal Opportunity Employer