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Meter Reader Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Core & Main

Meter Specialist

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

... meter reading (AMR), and data-driven technologies. As a Meter Specialist, you will serve as the go-to expert on metering systems, including meters, endpoints, network infrastructure, and software ...

ACRT

Ready Force Technician I | TX (DOT)

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$19.25 - $26.25/hr

Properly change out meter registers for AMI/AMR upgrade Meter Reading: * Read electric, gas, or water meters * Enter data collected in the field into a handheld computer Surveying Meters and Gas ...

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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 Jul 26, 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 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.
More about Meter Reader jobs
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:
Meter Reader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Meter Reader job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 82% Full Time, 9% Contract, and 9% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $38,582 per year, or $18.5 per hour.
Meter Reader Tier II 1 of 6

Meter Reader Tier II 1 of 6

Berkshire Hathaway Energy

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site

Full-time

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

Berkshire Hathaway Energy rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Under general supervision performs a variety of duties in association with reading, recording and collecting data on utility meters. MidAmerican Energy Company, a Midwest utility, provides regulated electric and natural gas service to more than 1.6 million customers in Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska and South Dakota. The company owns and operates a portfolio of power-generating assets, approximately 61% of which is wind generation.MidAmerican Energy Company is proud to be an equal opportunity employer

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion or religious creed, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status (except as required by law), gender (including gender identity and expression), sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability, veteran or military status, familial or parental status, marital status or any other category protected by applicable local, state or U.S. federal law. Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without an accommodation.Valid drivers license Pipeline Alcohol and Drug Testing Employees must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without an accommodation

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or veteran status.Performs all work in a safe manner. Complies with all applicable safety rules, regulations and procedures. Performs work that they are qualified and trained to do in a manner to protect themselves, their fellow employees and the public from injury

- Reads, collects and records meter data as assigned. - Reports unusual conditions. - Checks for unauthorized use and seals/reseals meters.

- Delivers notices to customer premises on their routes as needed. - Drives own or Company vehicle. - Responsible for obtaining access to customer premises via keys or other arrangements.

- Other duties as assigned relating to meter reading. - Responsible for route maintenance. - Reports gas leaks.

- Observes and follows meter reading instructions while extending proper courtesy andconsideration to customers and customers' property. - Leads, trains and instructs employees in their work.

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