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Meter Reader Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Perform any duties of the Meter Reader classification * Perform other tasks as assigned and allowed by contract Minimum Qualifications * High School Diploma, HSED, or GED is required * 1+ years ...

Utility Apprentice

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$29.05/hr

Perform any duties of the Meter Reader classification * Perform other tasks as assigned and allowed by contract Minimum Qualifications * High School Diploma, HSED, or GED is required * 1+ years ...

Utility Apprentice

Waukegan, IL · On-site

$29.05/hr

Perform any duties of the Meter Reader classification * Perform other tasks as assigned and allowed by contract Minimum Qualifications * High School Diploma, HSED, or GED is required * 1+ years ...

Maintain required operating logs, records and meter readings. * Maintain the safety and cleanliness of the machine rooms and work areas. * Perform preventative and corrective maintenance on equipment ...

Maintain required operating logs, records and meter readings. * Maintain the safety and cleanliness of the machine rooms and work areas. * Perform preventative and corrective maintenance on equipment ...

The route collector will travel to customer locations to securely transport cash, log meter readings, and perform minor maintenance on machines. The candidate must be 21 years or older, have a valid ...

Maintain inventory and supply levels, conduct meter reads, and ensure billing accuracy. * Train and support junior team members or cover for other sites during absences. * Participate in workflow ...

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Meter Reader information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$11

$20

$33

How much do meter reader jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for meter reader in Chicago, IL is $20.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.87 and $21.97 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 Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Meter Reader jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Meter Reader jobs in Chicago, IL? For Meter Reader jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Meter Reader jobs in Chicago, IL look for? The top searched job categories for Meter Reader jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Meter Reader jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Meter Reader job openings:
Infographic showing various Meter Reader job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,711 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Meter Processing Representative (Contract)

Blue Star Partners LLC

Merrillville, IN

$20 - $30/hr

Other

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Meter Processing Representative

Location: Merrillville, IN (100% Remote, but must be local to IN or IL)

Contract Duration: 4 months (possible extensions)

Pay Rate: $20-$30/hr

Work Authorization: Must be authorized to work in the U.S. (No sponsorships, F-1, OPT, or other visas)

Position Summary

The Meter Processing Representative supports utility billing and meter reading operations by processing meter data, maintaining routes and schedules, coordinating with meter readers, and ensuring accurate customer billing. This role requires strong attention to detail, customer service skills, and proficiency with data entry and Excel-based reporting systems.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent required

  • Successful completion of applicable Customer Service Representative (CSR) training

  • Strong computer skills, including Excel and standard office equipment (calculator, copier, fax, etc.)

  • Ability to quickly learn and apply knowledge of:

    • Utility rates and billing codes

    • Service classifications

    • Collection and shut-off policies

  • Ability to communicate effectively and courteously with both internal teams and external customers

  • Strong organizational, multitasking, and clerical skills

Key Responsibilities

Meter & Billing Operations

  • Prepare and enter transactions to initiate or correct customer billing

  • Perform data entry for name changes, rereads, and billing adjustments

  • Review customer billing history to support accurate corrections

  • Process and verify meter readings transferred via electronic meter reading systems

  • Ensure readings interface correctly with the Industrial Billing System

Routing & Scheduling

  • Assign meter reading routes and create schedules for meter readers

  • Assign new and un-routed meters to appropriate CIS routes

  • Create new routes and enter district reroutes into CIS as required

  • Schedule, assign, and dispatch meter reading orders

Customer & Field Support

  • Schedule customer appointments for meter readings

  • Provide phone support to meter readers

  • Operate call direction telephone systems

  • Generate SONR (Shut-Off No Read) notification letters and respond to customer correspondence

Reporting & Administration

  • Run and work assigned reports using existing or new systems

  • Maintain departmental records (electronic and hard copy)

  • Perform clerical duties including typing, filing, mail handling, and message routing

Leadership & Compliance

  • Assist in training new or existing employees

  • Provide direction to one or two assisting employees as needed

  • Follow client's procedures, safety rules, and operational practices

  • Report irregularities or abnormal conditions promptly

  • Perform related or lower-level duties as workload requires