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Meter Reader Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Meter Reader

Redding, CA

$30.96 - $32.50/hr

Meter Readers operate electronic meter-reading devices to collect information relative to consumption for residential and commercial operations throughout the City. To perform these duties, these ...

Meter Reader

Redding, CA · On-site

$30.96 - $32.50/hr

Meter Readers operate electronic meter-reading devices to collect information relative to consumption for residential and commercial operations throughout the City. To perform these duties, these ...

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 ...

METER READER 1611

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$76K - $108K/yr

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 ...

Water Meter Technician I/II

La Verne, CA · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

To perform a variety of field duties related to water meter reading and meter service activities, including reading water meters for water services and other municipal services; entering meter reads ...

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Meter Reader information

See California salary details

$11

$19

$32

How much do meter reader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for meter reader in California is $19.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $21.35 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 California? The most popular types of Meter Reader jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Meter Reader jobs? Cities in California with the most Meter Reader job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Meter Reader jobs in CA? For Meter Reader jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Meter Reader job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,539 per year, or $19.5 per hour.
Meter Reader

$30.96 - $32.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Description Meter Reader (On-call, part-time or seasonal) $20.11 - $22.80 per hour Meter Reader (Full-time) $30.96 - $32.50 per hour The City of Redding is accepting applications for the position of Meter Reader in the Electric Department. Meter Readers operate electronic meter-reading devices to collect information relative to consumption for residential and commercial operations throughout the City. To perform these duties, these positions drive City vehicles and walk long distances on a daily basis in all weather conditions

There is currently one temporary, part-time, on-call position available. The eligibility list established may be used to fill both temporary part-time on-call and full time vacancies that occur during the life of the list. The City of Redding provides an excellent benefit package including health, dental, vision, life and long term disability insurance, paid time off and a CalPERS retirement program along with a great work environment.

We are looking for someone to Read electric and water meters Record meter readings and verify accuracy of the readings Drive City vehicle Contact customers in the field and answer routine questions about meters, safety and meter access Communicate special billing problems and hazards to utility billing clerks Add new accounts to daily routes Check for irregularities with electric and/or water meters, meter locations and immediate surroundings Locate and uncover meter boxes, remove natural obstacles from around meters Perform routine minor maintenance on meter trucks Enter new meters in hand-held electronic device by route and sequence number Reroute and re-sequence reading routes as necessary Click Here for the Full Job Description Qualifications we're looking for Knowledge of the general order of street addresses Knowledge of general knowledge of meter reading techniques, and diplomatic interaction with others Ability to interact courteously and with diplomacy with the public and other employees Ability to perform moderately strenuous work involved in reading meters, quickly and accurately record meter readings, perform basic mathematical calculations quickly and accurately Ability to read and interpret City maps and basic English Ability to use a variety of hand tools Ability to drive a pickup truck, perform minor meter repairs and maintain a valid driver's license Education, Experience and Special Requirements: Typical qualifications include a high school diploma, or equivalent, AND Minimum of six months of general work experience which included any combination of training and experience that provided the required knowledge and abilities, reading and interpreting basic English, public contact, and performing basic mathematical calculations. Possession of the appropriate California drivers license, or the ability to acquire one within ten days of appointment. Must be able to enter and work in confined spaces, participate in the Confined Space Program, and perform confined space rescue if needed.

Physical Requirements: Reach, handle, and finger utilizing feet with eye, hand and foot coordination Climb over obstacles with unsure footing Lift and pull up to 15 pounds Walk long distances on a daily basis in all weather conditions Kneel and squat frequently Constant twisting and turning of body and neck and use of fingertips for button pushing Click Here for the full list of Qualifications What to expect from the Application and Exam Process You will receive notifications pertaining to this recruitment at the e-mail address and text message number provided on your application. Email correspondence may go to your spam or junk mail folder. Examination Process: An online written examination will be administered.

This recruitment will add to an existing eligibility list that may be used to fill future vacancies. Selection Process: Positive past employment references Review of a driver history record (depending on position) Passing a city paid fingerprint criminal conviction check (applicants 18 and older) Passing of a pre-employment medical exam and drug and alcohol screening test (depending on position) Veterans Credit: Applicants who attach a copy of the DD-214 to their application indicating "Honorable Discharge" from military service and receive a passing score on the examination process will have two (2) additional points added to their final examination score. The City of Redding adheres to Cal/OSHA COVID-19 requirements.

AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY/FEDERAL AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER