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Meter Reader Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

Test Operator II

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$18 - $22.25/hr

... meter reading to determine whether the item being tested meets minimum requirements specified in test procedure or test program • Maintains records of unit tested, accepted or rejected, utilizing ...

Chemical Operator (59570)

Cherokee, AL · On-site

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

Perform periodic meter and gauge readings of air, water, steam and gas flows, temperatures, pressures and plant processes; * Verify accuracy of meter and gauge readings and record in log; * Monitor ...

Chemical Operator (59570)

Cherokee, AL

$17.25 - $19.75/hr

Perform periodic meter and gauge readings of air, water, steam and gas flows, temperatures, pressures and plant processes; * Verify accuracy of meter and gauge readings and record in log; * Monitor ...

Water/Fire Restoration Technician

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$14.50 - $17.75/hr

Responsible for making daily adjustments to the drying plan based on meter readings * Inspects jobs after completion and obtains customer signatures for approval purposes, and requests payments when ...

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Meter Reader information

See Alabama salary details

$10

$17

$30

How much do meter reader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for meter reader in Alabama is $17.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $19.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Meter Reader vs Utility Worker?

AspectMeter ReaderUtility Worker
CredentialsHigh school diploma; training on meter readingHigh school diploma; specialized training depending on utility type
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, residential and commercial areasOutdoor, infrastructure sites, utility facilities
Industry UsageElectric, water, gas companiesElectric, water, gas, and other utility services
Job FocusReading meters and recording dataMaintaining and repairing utility infrastructure

While both roles work within utility companies, Meter Readers primarily focus on reading meters and recording consumption data, often outdoors in various environments. Utility Workers have a broader scope, including infrastructure maintenance and repairs. Both roles require similar credentials and are essential in the utility industry, but their daily tasks and responsibilities differ significantly.

What are meter readers?

Meter readers are professionals who visit residential, commercial, and industrial properties to record the readings of utility meters such as electricity, gas, or water. Their primary job is to ensure accurate measurement of consumption so that customers are billed correctly. Meter readers may also inspect meters for signs of damage, report irregularities, and sometimes assist with minor maintenance. This role often involves working outdoors and interacting with property owners or tenants.

Is being a meter reader a good job?

Meter readers are responsible for recording utility usage by visiting customer locations, often working outdoors with a focus on accuracy and reliability. The job typically requires physical stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to operate basic measurement tools, with employment often stable and seasonal variations depending on utility demand.

What are some common challenges Meter Readers face in their daily work and how can they be managed?

Meter Readers often work outdoors in various weather conditions and may need to navigate challenging terrain or neighborhoods. They also encounter situations where meters are difficult to access due to locked gates, pets, or obstacles. Effective communication skills, time management, and maintaining personal safety awareness are important in overcoming these challenges. Many employers provide safety training and digital tools to help Meter Readers work efficiently and safely.

Is meter reading still a job?

Meter reading is still a valid job that involves collecting data from utility meters such as electricity, water, or gas meters. It typically requires physical presence, attention to detail, and sometimes the use of handheld devices or mobile apps. The role remains important for utility companies to bill customers accurately and monitor usage.

What Is a Meter Reader?

As a meter reader, you collect data for utility companies from meters located inside or outside of homes and other buildings. Your job duties include using meter reading equipment to gather and record information from utility meters, interacting with customers to explain what you are doing and answer questions, and driving along an assigned route to read meters at specified locations. Reading and data entry skills are key to your success as a meter reader. Interpersonal skills are also useful.

How do I become a meter reader?

To become a meter reader, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and must pass a background check and drug test. Training on reading meters, safety procedures, and using handheld devices is usually provided on the job. Physical stamina and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions are important for this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Meter Reader, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Meter Reader, you need strong attention to detail, basic math skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with handheld data collection devices, GPS systems, and utility company software is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, reliability, and the ability to work independently help Meter Readers excel in customer interactions and manage routes efficiently. These skills are crucial to ensure accurate meter readings, timely data collection, and dependable service for utility companies and their customers.

What skills are needed for meter reading?

Meter readers need strong attention to detail, good communication skills, and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions. Familiarity with reading and recording data accurately, basic math skills, and the use of handheld devices or meters are also important for the job.
What are the most commonly searched types of Meter Reader jobs in Alabama? The most popular types of Meter Reader jobs in Alabama are:
What are popular job titles related to Meter Reader jobs in Alabama? For Meter Reader jobs in Alabama, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Alabama are hiring for Meter Reader jobs? Cities in Alabama with the most Meter Reader job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Meter Reader jobs in AL? For Meter Reader jobs in AL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Locomotive Mechanic - Tuscaloosa, AL

Locomotive Mechanic - Tuscaloosa, AL

Watco

Tuscaloosa, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 15 days ago


Watco rating

6.7

Company rating: 6.7 out of 10

Based on 52 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

248th of 352 rated logistics


Job description

Locomotive Mechanic - Tuscaloosa, AL
Job Location: Tuscaloosa-AL-35401-Tuscaloosa-35401
Office Location: Onsite
Employment Type: Hourly
Job Type: Full Time
Start a Watco Career and Discover the Difference
Keep the world's supply chain moving. That's what the Watco team does every day at our short line railroads, switching sites, terminals, ports, and logistics hubs. Whether you're at one of these locations or in a support-services role, there's one thread that ties everyone together. We're all on the same team. One Watco.
Here's what you can expect from Watco:
• Outstanding culture recognized by Forbes and Newsweek
• Competitive compensation and benefits
• Paid on-the-job training with peer trainers
• Training for conductors, engineers, mechanics, and MOW Team Members at Watco's Safe Performance Center
• Leadership and development programs offered through Watco University
• Career advancement opportunities
Job Summary
The Locomotive Mechanic inspects, repairs, and maintains locomotives consistent with company policies and FRA regulations, and perform mechanical related maintenance as required.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
• Provide a level of customer service consistent with company expectations
• Obtain working knowledge and proper use of gauges and testing equipment
• Complete written documents for any necessary FRA reports pertaining to mechanist job duties
• Able to become qualified service engineer certificate related to FRA inspections and regulations
• Interpret instructions in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form
• Observe mechanical devices in operation to identify issues
• Dismantle devices using hoists, cranes, hand tools, and power tools to remove, repair or replace defective parts
• Record hour meter readings for inspections and preventative maintenance repair
• Check locomotives for air-fuel, oil, water, exhaust leaks, etc. clean as needed
• Inspect safety equipment, securing bolts and pins as required
• Clean and lube screens, strainers and traps
• Check locomotives for defects, damage, leaks, etc, in accordance with company standards
• Perform main bearing checks and air brake tests according to specifications
• Perform emergency repairs and re-railing of railroad rolling stock
• Inspect wheels according to wheel inspection report
• Basic knowledge of welders, torches, hammers, jacks, pneumatic, hand tools, forklifts and cranes
Qualifications
• Must be able to pass and or obtain all reporting, testing, and certifications required for this position, such as troubleshooting and repair of motors, generators, and transformers
• Must possess valid driver's license and be insurable by company insurance provider
• Have or be able to obtain Class B CDL
• Have the ability to become a qualified Service Engineer according to FRA regulations
• Able to complete a three-year Railroad Apprenticeship, if required
Education
High School or GED equivalent

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