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Meter Reader Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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Meter Reader information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$18

$31

How much do meter reader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for meter reader in Iowa is $18.55, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $20.34 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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 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.

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 the duties of a meter reader?

A meter reader's primary duties include visiting properties to record utility meter readings, such as water, gas, or electricity meters, and recording the data accurately. They may also inspect meters for damage or malfunctions and ensure safety while working outdoors, often using handheld devices or logbooks. Accuracy and attention to detail are essential for billing and maintenance purposes.

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

The most popular types of Meter Reader jobs in Iowa are:

What are popular job titles related to Meter Reader jobs in Iowa?

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

What job categories do people searching Meter Reader jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Meter Reader jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Meter Reader jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Meter Reader job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Meter Reader jobs in IA?

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

Infographic showing various Meter Reader job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 92% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,582 per year, or $18.5 per hour.

Meter Tester- Journey or Apprentice

Alliant Energy Corp.

Cedar Rapids, IA • On-site

$36.38 - $44.10/hr

Full-time

Posted 13 days ago


Alliant Energy rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 23 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Grow your career with Alliant Energy!
At Alliant Energy, our purpose is to serve customers and build stronger communities. Our employees make a difference every day by using their personal energy to bring this purpose to life.
This role may be filled at the Apprentice or Journey level dependent upon qualifications.
Union Details (If applicable)
IBEW Local 204 (Large Group)
Seniority Group (Local 965 Only) and Business Unit
Operations Energy Del IPL
Number of Positions Available
1
Salary Grade
U104024
Career Band
Journey
Job Code
J01415
Pay Range
$36.38 - $44.10
Alliant Energy offers a comprehensive total rewards package including competitive compensation and benefit programs. Information on these benefit programs is available on our Careers site.
Training Locations
IPL Technical Training Center
Residency Requirement
Not subject to residency requirements.
Job Description
Job Summary
Responsible for the accuracy of electric meter testing. Test, maintain, calibrate and preserve associated traceability of all electric meters, test equipment used in the shop, and instrument transformers in accordance with company, commission rules, regulations and standards. This classification operates test boards and associated test equipment in a shop setting only.
What you will do
  • Cleans, inspects, reconditions, calibrates and tests self-contained and transformer rated meters (mechanical and solid state), demand meters and all other associated devices.
  • Cleaning, repair, retirement, and handling of all electric meters and electric metering equipment up to and including calibrating test equipment (equipment could include recorders, standards, test boards, etc.).
  • Load programs into electric meters.
  • Verifies that meter nameplate data, meter constants and bar code are correct for meters and all other associated equipment.
  • Install, maintain and operate all meter testing and associated equipment.
  • Maintain meter shop cleanliness and order by performing routine duties such as packing, unpacking, cleaning, shipping material etc.
  • Responsible for updating and processing electric meter records, instrument transformer records and test results into the computerized records system for meters and transformers tested in the shop.
  • Ability to use computer, associated equipment and necessary software.
  • Utilizes training aids, technical manuals/instructions, procedures and other available data.
  • Operates fork lift, pallet jack and other associated equipment in loading/unloading and in moving inventory/stock and performs similar manual tasks.
  • Maintain inventory of meters, instrument transformers and associated equipment.
  • Supply Electric Meter Technicians with electric meters, instrument transformers and associated equipment.
  • Test and calibrate voltmeters in accordance with company and commission rules, regulations and standards.
  • Assist in providing technical direction, assistance and training to internal and external customers in the area of shop testing of electric meters and instrument transformers.
  • Observes safety rules and practices and encourages safe work behaviors.
  • Reports to work fit for duty and free from the effects of Drugs and Alcohol abuse.
  • Comply with all state commission and company regulations and standards.
  • Performs other duties, which are similar, related or incidental to this position and assist in other activities that do not require skills of a higher classification.
  • The above duties are not an inclusive list of duties to be performed for this position. The above listed duties are intended to be a general job description for the major duties to be performed by the employee.

Required Experience
  • Must satisfy minimum educational requirements as stipulated in the governing contract and successfully complete Electric Meter Tester Apprenticeship program.
  • Successfully complete forklift training and certification

Other Requirements
  • Must possess a valid driver's license.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Demonstrate general knowledge of the customer billing system.
  • Demonstrate mechanical aptitude. Be able to operate hand and power tools and appropriate test instruments and devices associated with this trade.
  • Be able to operate computer terminals to process meter and transformer records. Ability to use computer software programs.
  • Knowledge of theory and applications in electric metering, meter construction, operation and differentiate meter forms and types.
  • Able to work without direct supervision.

Key Skills
Our people are passionate about what they do, the product they sell, and the customers they serve. If you're looking for an opportunity to be a part of a work family that values collaboration, innovation and dedication, we're the right company for you.
Our Values
Live Safety. Everyone. Always | Make Things Better | Care For Others | Do The Right Thing | Act For Tomorrow | Think Beyond. Be Bold
Alliant Energy and its subsidiaries are committed to creating a culture of belonging and is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer where an applicant's qualifications are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other basis prohibited by law.
Disclaimer:
The above information on this description has been crafted to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not crafted to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities and qualifications required of employees assigned to this job.
Applicants in need of a reasonable accommodation for any part of the hiring process, please email talent@alliantenergy.com.
Posting End Date:
August 18, 2026

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