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Reader Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

METER READER 1611

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$76K - $108K/yr

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 I/II

La Mesa, CA · On-site

$28.80 - $42.55/hr

As a Meter Reader with Helix Water District, you will play a crucial role in maintaining the accuracy and reliability of our water services. You will follow a prescribed route to read and record ...

Meter Reader I/II

El Cajon, CA · On-site

$28.80 - $42.55/hr

As a Meter Reader with Helix Water District , you will play a crucial role in maintaining the accuracy and reliability of our water services. You will follow a prescribed route to read and record ...

Position Information Position Title Temporary Application Reader Position Type Temporary Job Number SA88024 Full or Part Time part-time 20-29 hours weekly Fair Labor Standard Act Classification Non ...

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Reader information

See California salary details

$8

$19

$40

How much do reader jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for reader in California is $19.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.42 and $21.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a publishing reader do?

A publishing reader assesses manuscripts and author queries sent to a literary agency, publishing house, or publication, such as a literary journal. At large agencies or publications, a professional reader is typically the first person to see a manuscript, and their duties are to assess the merit and viability of each manuscript and determine whether it should be rejected or sent up to an editor or literary agent. At smaller agencies or publications, an agent or editor may be the person responsible for reading manuscripts. Production companies or film agencies have a similar position called a script reader.

What is a reader?

Readers are professionals who review, analyze, and often provide feedback on written works such as manuscripts, scripts, articles, or academic papers. They may work in publishing, education, or entertainment industries, helping to assess the quality and suitability of content for publication, production, or grading. Their role is essential in filtering material, ensuring standards are met, and sometimes recommending edits or further development. Readers may also be referred to as manuscript readers, script readers, or academic readers, depending on the industry. Their expertise helps organizations make informed decisions about which works to promote or advance.

What is the difference between Reader vs Editor?

AspectReaderEditor
Required CredentialsNone typically requiredOften requires a degree in journalism, communications, or related fields
Work EnvironmentMedia outlets, publishing houses, online platformsMedia organizations, publishing companies, online media
Primary ResponsibilitiesReview and provide feedback on contentReview, revise, and approve content for publication
Common UsageReaders, reviewers, feedback providersContent creators, publishers, media professionals

While both Readers and Editors work with content, Readers primarily review and provide feedback without formal editing responsibilities. Editors take a more active role in revising and finalizing content for publication, often requiring specialized credentials. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and expectations in media and publishing industries.

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

To thrive as a Reader (such as a university Reader or academic), you need advanced subject knowledge, a track record of published research, and often a doctoral degree. Familiarity with academic databases, research software, and citation management tools is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, clear communication, and mentoring abilities help a Reader stand out in both research and teaching settings. These skills and qualities are vital for producing impactful scholarship, guiding students, and contributing to the academic community.

How does a reader typically collaborate with other academics or faculty members in a university setting?

In a university setting, Readers often work closely with other faculty members to develop curriculum, supervise research projects, and participate in departmental meetings. They may also collaborate on interdisciplinary research initiatives or co-author publications with colleagues. This collaborative environment helps Readers stay engaged with the latest developments in their field and provides opportunities for mentorship and professional growth. Effective communication and teamwork are essential for success in this role.
What are the most commonly searched types of Reader jobs in California? The most popular types of Reader jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Reader jobs? Cities in California with the most Reader job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Reader jobs in CA? For Reader jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Reader job openings in California as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,128 per year, or $19.3 per hour.

METER READER 1611

City of Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

$76K - $108K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Life

Posted 17 days ago


City Of Los Angeles rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

98th of 844 rated public administrative organizations


Job description

DUTIES ANNUAL SALARY $76,546 to $95,108; $78,592 to $97,655; $80,346 to $99,848; $82,538 to $102,541; and $87,215 to $108,367 NOTES: Candidates from the eligible list are normally appointed to vacancies in the lower pay grade positions. Annual salary is at the start of the pay range. The current salary range is subject to change.

Please confirm the starting salary with the hiring department before accepting a job offer. For information regarding reciprocity between the City of Los Angeles departments and LADWP, go to http://per.lacity.org/Reciprocity_CityDepts_and_DWP.pdf. A Meter Reader works outdoors; reads water and electric meters and makes accurate recordings of those readings using a hand-held computer; reports irregularities found in the field; and deals tactfully and courteously with customers in answering their inquiries and complaints regarding service

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 in hilly and flat terrain; squat and bend approximately 150-250 times per day; climb multiple flights of stairs; carry approximately 15 pounds of equipment all day; lift and slide water meter lids weighing approximately 10 to 25 pounds on a regular basis, and up to 50 pounds on occasion; work in all types of inclement weather, including rain and extreme heat; must contend with hostile dogs; and frequently must read meters under unfavorable conditions such as through a screen in poor light, or at a distance using a scope or mirror; have the ability to memorize various alpha and numeric codes is especially desired; may work overtime, during the week and on weekends, as scheduled. REQUIREMENT(S)/MINIMUM QUALIFICATION(S) One (1) year of full-time paid experience reading and/or servicing meters for a utility; or Two (2) years of full-time paid experience providing customer service in the field conducting deliveries and responding to service calls for an agency or utility. PROCESS NOTES As a condition of employment, a valid Class C driver's license issued by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) is required at the time of appointment.

Applicants will be disqualified or deemed ineligible for hire if their DMV record reflects three or more moving violations and/or at-fault accidents, or a conviction of a major moving violation within the last 36 months in any state or jurisdiction. The City of Los Angeles reserves the right to issue a notice of disqualification or ineligibility at any time before a final offer is extended. You must review and complete the on-line Realistic Job Preview Questionnaire which will provide you with a realistic understanding of the job of Meter Reader.

The Realistic Job Preview Questionnaire is located in the Supplemental Questions section of the on-line application. WHERE TO APPLY & APPLICATION DEADLINE Applications will only be accepted on-line.When you are viewing the on-line job bulletin of your choice, simply scroll to the top of the page and select the "Apply" icon.On-line job bulletins are also available athttps://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/lacity. NOTE: Applicants are urged to apply early to ensure you have time to resolve any technical issues you may encounter

Applications must be received byTHURSDAY, AUGUST 6, 2026. In accordance with Civil Service Rule 4.2, all applicants who apply may not be tested in this examination. To meet anticipated hiring needs, only a limited number of qualified applicants will be invited to participate in the weighted multiple-choice test in the following order: 1) Applicants currently employed by the City of Los Angeles who meet the minimum requirements, or are on a reserve list; 2) Remaining applicants who meet the minimum requirements in sufficient numbers to meet hiring needs based on a random sampling of those qualified candidates

Applications submitted during the filing period may be kept on file in the event that additional applicants need to be tested to meet hiring needs. SELECTION PROCESS Examination Weight: Multiple-Choice Test - 100% The examination will consist entirely of a weighted multiple-choice test administered and proctored on-line. In the on-line multiple-choice test, the following competencies may be evaluated: Reading Comprehension; Judgment and Decision Making; Safety Focus, including safety standards, procedures, rules, and regulations as required by the California Occupational Safety and Health Administration (Cal-OSHA) and California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) when reading meters and operating an automobile; Customer Service; Follow Written Directions; Job Knowledge, including knowledge of: factors necessary to read and correctly interpret electric meters, water meters, and maps; steps necessary to convert meter readings into decimal outputs; and other necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities.

Additional job analysis information can be obtained by going to https://per.lacity.org/jobs/job-analyses.cfm and clicking on Competencies under Meter Reader. The multiple-choice test will be proctored and administered on-line during a single session. Candidates invited to participate in the on-line multiple-choice test will be able to take the test from a remote location (i.e., their home) using a computer with a webcam and a reliable internet connection

Candidates will receive an e-mail from the City of Los Angeles outlining the dates and specific steps on how to take the multiple-choice test on-line. It is anticipated that the remote proctored multiple-choice test will be administered between TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2026 and MONDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2026. Candidates who do not complete and submit the remote proctored multiple-choice test on-line using a computer by the specified date and time will not be considered further in this examination.

FAQ's for on-line testing are available at https://per.lacity.org/faqs/employment-testing-process.html. Only candidates who demonstrate a hardship may be offered the option to take the multiple-choice test onsite at a City facility. NOTES: This examination is based on a validation study, and as provided by Civil Service Commission Rule 4.20, the multiple-choice test will not be subject to candidate inspection

As a covered entity under the Fair Employment and Housing Act and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of disability and upon request, will provide reasonable accommodations to ensure equal access to its programs, services, and activities. To request a disability accommodation, please complete the Disability Accommodation Form within 14 calendar days of the submittal of the City application. The Disability Accommodation Form can be obtained at http://per.lacity.org/exams/verify_disability.pdf

Applications are accepted subject to review to ensure that minimum qualifications are met. Candidates may be disqualified at any time if it is determined that they do not possess the minimum qualifications stated on this bulletin. A final average score of 70% or higher is required to be placed on the eligible list.

In accordance with Civil Service Rule, Sec. 4.24, review periods may be combined. Candidates in the examination process may file protests as provided in Sec

4.20, 4.22 and 4.23 as applicable and within the required time frame; however, the Personnel Department may respond to and resolve protests prior to the establishment of the eligible list. Notice: If you receive and accept an offer of employment to a regular position with the City of Los Angeles, your employee benefit coverage (including health and dental coverage as well as life insurance) will commence approximately six weeks after your original regular appointment. Not all positions in the City receive benefit coverage; you should inquire regarding the availability of employee benefits prior to accepting a position

All City employees are required to be Disaster Service Workers. THIS EXAMINATION IS TO BE GIVEN ONLY ON AN OPEN COMPETITIVE BASIS The City of Los Angeles does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, creed, color, ancestry, medical condition (cancer), or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome.


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