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Electric Meter Reader Jobs (NOW HIRING)

METER READER 1611

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$76K - $108K/yr

For information regarding reciprocity between the City of Los Angeles departments and LADWP, go to A Meter Reader works outdoors; reads water and electric meters and makes accurate recordings of ...

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Electric Meter Reader information

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$15

$40

$71

How much do electric meter reader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for electric meter reader in the United States is $40.19, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $31.25 and $52.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do you become an electric meter reader?

To become an electric meter reader, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a background check. Training on reading meters, safety procedures, and the use of handheld devices is usually provided, and some positions may require a valid driver's license for traveling between locations.

What are some common challenges electric meter readers face in the field, and how can they be managed?

Electric Meter Readers often work outdoors in varying weather conditions and may encounter difficult-to-access meters, such as those behind locked gates or obstructed by landscaping. Managing these challenges involves effective communication with property owners, careful route planning, and adherence to safety protocols. Many companies provide training and support to help meter readers handle these situations efficiently, ensuring accurate readings and maintaining customer satisfaction.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an electric meter reader, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Electric Meter Reader, you need basic math skills, attention to detail, physical stamina, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with handheld data collection devices, GPS systems, and sometimes a valid driver’s license is typically required. Strong time management, customer service, and problem-solving abilities help you efficiently navigate routes and address customer inquiries. These skills ensure accurate meter readings, reliable data collection, and positive customer interactions, which are vital for utility operations.

Is it hard to become an electric meter reader?

Becoming an electric meter reader typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and the ability to work outdoors and handle physical tasks. Training on reading meters and safety procedures is usually provided, and some positions may require a valid driver's license. The job generally involves routine work and can vary in difficulty depending on the environment and specific employer requirements.

What does an electric meter reader do?

As an electric meter reader, you are responsibilities involve reading utility meters and recording usage at residences and commercial buildings. You inspect meters to ensure they are not damaged, note defects or irregularities, and verify kWh readings. You walk or drive to each location and enter data into a database. You may connect or disconnect power services at specific locations. Your duties as an electric meter reader may also include collecting past-due payments, answering customer questions, updating client information, and leaving messages to clients to schedule meter reading date and time. You are also responsible for reporting meter reading issues to service departments.

Is electric meter reading still a job?

Electric meter reading is still a job performed by utility companies to monitor electricity usage. Although some companies are adopting smart meters that transmit data automatically, many regions still employ meter readers who manually visit properties, often requiring knowledge of safety procedures and basic technical skills.

What is the difference between Electric Meter Reader vs Gas Meter Reader?

AspectElectric Meter ReaderGas Meter Reader
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; training on meter readingHigh school diploma; training on gas meter reading and safety
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, residential and commercial areasOutdoor, residential and commercial areas, with safety protocols
Employer & IndustryUtility companies, energy providersGas utility companies, energy providers
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to similar reading tasks and environmentsRelated but involves different safety and technical considerations

The Electric Meter Reader and Gas Meter Reader roles share similarities in work environment and employer industry, both requiring basic training and working outdoors. However, gas meter readers need additional safety awareness due to the nature of gas utilities. Both positions are essential for utility companies to ensure accurate billing and service delivery.

What does an electric meter reader do?

An Electric Meter Reader is responsible for visiting homes and businesses to read and record the numbers on electric meters. These readings are used by utility companies to calculate customer energy usage and generate accurate bills. Meter readers typically travel to multiple locations each day, ensure readings are accurate, and report any issues with meters. In some cases, they may use handheld devices or smartphones to record and send data electronically.

What cities are hiring for Electric Meter Reader jobs?

Cities with the most Electric Meter Reader job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Electric Meter Reader jobs?

The most popular types of Electric Meter Reader jobs are:

What states have the most Electric Meter Reader jobs?

States with the most job openings for Electric Meter Reader jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Electric Meter Reader jobs?

For Electric Meter Reader jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Electric Meter Reader job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 92% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $83,593 per year, or $40.2 per hour.

METER READER 1611

City of Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$76K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


City Of Los Angeles rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

98th of 846 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

DUTIES ANNUAL SALARY $76,546 to $95,108; $78,592 to $97,655; $80,346 to $99,848; $82,538 to $102,541; and $87,215 to $108,367 NOTES: Candidates from the eligible list are normally appointed to vacancies in the lower pay grade positions. Annual salary is at the start of the pay range. The current salary range is subject to change.

Please confirm the starting salary with the hiring department before accepting a job offer. For information regarding reciprocity between the City of Los Angeles departments and LADWP, go to http://per.lacity.org/Reciprocity_CityDepts_and_DWP.pdf. A Meter Reader works outdoors; reads water and electric meters and makes accurate recordings of those readings using a hand-held computer; reports irregularities found in the field; and deals tactfully and courteously with customers in answering their inquiries and complaints regarding service

Candidates should have good eyesight in order to record accurate meter reads and must be in good physical condition since Meter Readers work alone in the field; walk in excess of seven miles per day in hilly and flat terrain; squat and bend approximately 150-250 times per day; climb multiple flights of stairs; carry approximately 15 pounds of equipment all day; lift and slide water meter lids weighing approximately 10 to 25 pounds on a regular basis, and up to 50 pounds on occasion; work in all types of inclement weather, including rain and extreme heat; must contend with hostile dogs; and frequently must read meters under unfavorable conditions such as through a screen in poor light, or at a distance using a scope or mirror; have the ability to memorize various alpha and numeric codes is especially desired; may work overtime, during the week and on weekends, as scheduled. REQUIREMENT(S)/MINIMUM QUALIFICATION(S) One (1) year of full-time paid experience reading and/or servicing meters for a utility; or Two (2) years of full-time paid experience providing customer service in the field conducting deliveries and responding to service calls for an agency or utility. PROCESS NOTES As a condition of employment, a valid Class C driver's license issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is required at the time of appointment.

Applicants will be disqualified or deemed ineligible for hire if their DMV record reflects three or more moving violations and/or at-fault accidents, or a conviction of a major moving violation within the last 36 months in any state or jurisdiction. The City of Los Angeles reserves the right to issue a notice of disqualification or ineligibility at any time before a final offer is extended. You must review and complete the on-line Realistic Job Preview Questionnaire which will provide you with a realistic understanding of the job of Meter Reader.

The Realistic Job Preview Questionnaire is located in the Supplemental Questions section of the on-line application. WHERE TO APPLY & APPLICATION DEADLINE Applications will only be accepted on-line.When you are viewing the on-line job bulletin of your choice, simply scroll to the top of the page and select the "Apply" icon.On-line job bulletins are also available athttps://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lacity. NOTE: Applicants are urged to apply early to ensure you have time to resolve any technical issues you may encounter

Applications must be received byTHURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026. In accordance with Civil Service Rule 4.2, all applicants who apply may not be tested in this examination. To meet anticipated hiring needs, only a limited number of qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the weighted multiple-choice test in the following order: 1) Applicants currently employed by the City of Los Angeles who meet the minimum requirements, or are on a reserve list; 2) Remaining applicants who meet the minimum requirements in sufficient numbers to meet hiring needs based on a random sampling of those qualified candidates

Applications submitted during the filing period may be kept on file in the event that additional applicants need to be tested to meet hiring needs. SELECTION PROCESS Examination Weight: Multiple-Choice Test - 100% The examination will consist entirely of a weighted multiple-choice test administered and proctored on-line. In the on-line multiple-choice test, the following competencies may be evaluated: Reading Comprehension; Judgment and Decision Making; Safety Focus, including safety standards, procedures, rules, and regulations as required by the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal-OSHA) and California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) when reading meters and operating an automobile; Customer Service; Follow Written Directions; Job Knowledge, including knowledge of: factors necessary to read and correctly interpret electric meters, water meters, and maps; steps necessary to convert meter readings into decimal outputs; and other necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Additional job analysis information can be obtained by going to https://per.lacity.org/jobs/job-analyses.cfm and clicking on Competencies under Meter Reader. The multiple-choice test will be proctored and administered on-line during a single session. Candidates invited to participate in the on-line multiple-choice test will be able to take the test from a remote location (i.e., their home) using a computer with a webcam and a reliable internet connection

Candidates will receive an e-mail from the City of Los Angeles outlining the dates and specific steps on how to take the multiple-choice test on-line. It is anticipated that the remote proctored multiple-choice test will be administered between TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2026 and MONDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2026. Candidates who do not complete and submit the remote proctored multiple-choice test on-line using a computer by the specified date and time will not be considered further in this examination.

FAQ's for on-line testing are available at https://per.lacity.org/faqs/employment-testing-process.html. Only candidates who demonstrate a hardship may be offered the option to take the multiple-choice test onsite at a City facility. NOTES: This examination is based on a validation study, and as provided by Civil Service Commission Rule 4.20, the multiple-choice test will not be subject to candidate inspection

As a covered entity under the Fair Employment and Housing Act and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of disability and upon request, will provide reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access to its programs, services, and activities. To request a disability accommodation, please complete the Disability Accommodation Form within 14 calendar days of the submittal of the City application. The Disability Accommodation Form can be obtained at http://per.lacity.org/exams/verify_disability.pdf

Applications are accepted subject to review to ensure that minimum qualifications are met. Candidates may be disqualified at any time if it is determined that they do not possess the minimum qualifications stated on this bulletin. A final average score of 70% or higher is required to be placed on the eligible list.

In accordance with Civil Service Rule, Sec. 4.24, review periods may be combined. Candidates in the examination process may file protests as provided in Sec

4.20, 4.22 and 4.23 as applicable and within the required time frame; however, the Personnel Department may respond to and resolve protests prior to the establishment of the eligible list. Notice: If you receive and accept an offer of employment to a regular position with the City of Los Angeles, your employee benefit coverage (including health and dental coverage as well as life insurance) will commence approximately six weeks after your original regular appointment. Not all positions in the City receive benefit coverage; you should inquire regarding the availability of employee benefits prior to accepting a position

All City employees are required to be Disaster Service Workers. THIS EXAMINATION IS TO BE GIVEN ONLY ON AN OPEN COMPETITIVE BASIS The City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, creed, color, ancestry, medical condition (cancer), or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome.


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