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Utility Meter Reader Jobs in Alabama (NOW HIRING)

City of Fairhope, AL

GROUNDMAN

Fairhope, AL · On-site

$18.50 - $20.74/hr

Public Utilities Division: Electric Opening Date: 05/20/2026 Closing Date: 9/30/2026 11:59 PM ... Practices proper safety procedures when performing line and meter installations. ESSENTIAL FUNCTION:

Circet USA

Conduct fiber light meter, CAT5/6 and volt ohm meter testing to ensure proper levels, continuity ... Read, analyze, and interpret detailed specifications and drawings, blueprints, schematics, and ...

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Utility Meter Reader information

See Alabama salary details

$10

$17

$30

How much do utility meter reader jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for utility meter reader in Alabama is $17.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $19.62 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a utility meter reader?

Utility Meter Readers are professionals responsible for visiting homes, businesses, and other properties to record readings from utility meters—such as gas, water, or electricity meters. Their primary role is to ensure accurate measurement of consumption so that customers are billed correctly. They may also inspect meters for signs of damage or tampering, report irregularities, and sometimes assist with minor maintenance or troubleshooting. Utility Meter Readers typically work for utility companies or municipal agencies and need to be detail-oriented, reliable, and comfortable working outdoors in various weather conditions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a utility meter reader?

To thrive as a Utility Meter Reader, you need basic math skills, attention to detail, physical stamina, and usually a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with handheld data collection devices, GPS systems, and sometimes utility-specific software is important for accurate readings and reporting. Strong time management, communication skills, and reliability help you interact with customers and work efficiently in varying environments. These skills ensure precise meter readings, customer satisfaction, and efficient service delivery for utility companies.

What are some common challenges utility meter readers face in the field, and how are they typically addressed?

Utility Meter Readers often work outdoors in various weather conditions, which can make the job physically demanding. Challenges include navigating difficult terrain, encountering pets or wildlife, and accessing meters that may be obstructed or located in hard-to-reach places. Most companies provide safety training, equipment, and support to help mitigate these issues. Communication with property owners and coordination with team members are also important for overcoming access challenges and ensuring accurate readings.

What is the difference between Utility Meter Reader vs Gas Meter Reader?

AspectUtility Meter ReaderGas Meter Reader
CredentialsHigh school diploma, training on meter readingHigh school diploma, specialized training for gas meters
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, residential and commercial locationsOutdoor, primarily residential areas
Employer & IndustryUtility companies, water/electricity providersGas utility companies, energy providers
Search & Comparison IntentCompare roles in utility readingFocus on gas-specific meter reading

Utility Meter Readers and Gas Meter Readers both work outdoors for utility companies, reading meters at residential and commercial sites. The main difference lies in the type of utility they service: utility meter readers handle water, electric, or gas meters, while gas meter readers specialize in gas meters. Both roles require similar credentials and work environments, but gas meter readers often need additional safety training due to the nature of gas services.

How to get a job as a utility meter reader?

To become a utility meter reader, applicants typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and a valid driver's license. Employers often require the ability to walk or drive in various weather conditions and may conduct background checks; some positions may require training on meter reading equipment or familiarity with basic data entry. Applying through utility companies or public service agencies and demonstrating reliability and attention to detail can improve chances of employment.

Is it hard to become a utility meter reader?

Becoming a utility meter reader typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and the ability to read and interpret meters accurately. The job often involves outdoor work, physical activity, and sometimes driving or operating basic tools, but it generally does not require extensive training or certifications. The difficulty level varies depending on individual skills and the specific employer's requirements.

What does a utility meter reader do?

A utility meter reader visits properties to record the readings of utility meters such as electricity, gas, or water. They typically work outdoors, use handheld devices or notebooks to record data, and may need to follow safety procedures and schedules set by utility companies.

What cities in Alabama are hiring for Utility Meter Reader jobs?

Cities in Alabama with the most Utility Meter Reader job openings:

Utility Meter Reader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Utility Meter Reader job openings in Alabama as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,232 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Utility Systems Technician

Auburn University, AL • On-site

Auburn University
Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools • 1 - 5K employees
Learn more about Auburn Universityexternal

$39K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Auburn University rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 45 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Overview
Auburn University Facilities Management is looking for a dedicated Utility Systems Technician to help keep our campus running smoothly. In this role, you'll be an essential part of installing, operating, and maintaining critical systems, including water, gas, stormwater, and sewer. Your work will include locating and mapping underground utilities, performing inspections, and handling minor repairs to ensure reliability and safety. You'll also be responsible for installing and maintaining utility meters, gathering accurate data, and supporting emergency response efforts when needed. If you're detail-oriented, enjoy hands-on work, and want to make a meaningful impact on campus operations, this is the opportunity for you!
Formal AU Title: Tech I, Utility Services
Responsibilities
  • Locates underground utilities around campus to support other departments and contractors working on campus. This would include water, gas, storm sewer, sanitary sewer, chilled water, hot water, steam phone lines and fiber.
  • Uses GPS instruments, computer, tablets, and smart phone to document new utilities being installed or repaired on campus.
  • Assists with the installation and repair of water. Learn the process of supporting Meter Billing Process. This would include manual meter reading and documentation.
  • Conducts preventative maintenance on gas and water systems to include locating and inspecting valves, hydrants, meter boxes, sanitary sewer manholes, and storm sewer manholes along with storm sewer detention boxes. This would include proper valve operation, opening and inspecting manhole and detention boxes, fire hydrant operation and lubrication as needed, gas meter set leak detection and paint of gas meter sets as required.
  • Responds to emergencies or unusual conditions on campus during normal working hours and after hours. This would include water leaks, gas leaks, sewer overflows, or stopped up storm drains and report findings to Supervisor so any support resources can be coordinated as necessary to rectify the issue.
  • Maintains all required training and certifications as outlined by university policy. Adhere strictly to safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and proper handling of tools and materials.
  • Assists with making repairs to as needed to water lines, gas lines, sewer lines, storm drains.

Qualifications
Level I:
  • High School Diploma or GED and 2 years of experience in installation, maintenance, and operation of utility systems.
  • Valid Driver's License

Level II:
  • Associates degree in a technical and 5 years of experience in installation, maintenance, and operation of utilities systems. Experience using several types of electronic line locate devices and GPS equipment. Experience with the design and operation on natural gas, domestic water systems, and proper isolation techniques. Experience with water and gas metering systems including automatic meter reading and programming systems. Experience should show increasing levels of responsibility and accountability.

SUBSTITUTIONS ALLOWED FOR EXPERIENCE: Yes, When a candidate has the required education, but lacks the required experience, they may normally apply additional appropriate education toward the experience requirement, at a rate of one (1) year relevant education per year of required experience.
Contract Type
Continuing
Why Work at Auburn?
  • Life-Changing Impact: Our work changes lives through research, instruction, and outreach, making a lasting impact on our students, our communities, and the world.
  • Culture of Excellence:We are committed to leveraging our strengths, resources, collaboration, and innovation as a top employer in higher education.
  • We're Here for You:Auburn offers generous benefits, educational opportunities, and a culture of support and work/life balance.
  • Sweet Home Alabama:The Auburn/Opelika area offers southern charm, vibrant downtown scenes, top-ranked schools, and easy access to Atlanta, Birmingham, and the Gulf of Mexico beaches.
  • A Place for Everyone: Auburn is committed to fostering an environment where all faculty, staff, and students are welcomed, valued, respected, and engaged.
  • Ready to lead and shape the future of higher education? Apply today! War Eagle!

Equal Opportunity Compliance Statement
It is our policy to provide equal employment and education opportunities for all individuals without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, pregnancy, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other classification protected by applicable law. Please visit the Office of Equal Opportunity Compliance's website to learn more.
Posted Date
7/20/2026

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