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Water Meter Reader Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Utility Meter Reader

Salem, OR · On-site

$26.78 - $32.57/hr

As a Utility Meter Reader, you'll play a key role in supporting the City of Salem's water services ... You'll make sure accurate water usage data for customers by reading meters on assigned routes and ...

... accurately reading water meters for billing, maintenance, and operational purposes. Ensures ... Inspect meters, meter boxes, and related equipment for damage or leaks. * Maintain accurate records ...

... accurately reading water meters for billing, maintenance, and operational purposes. Ensures ... Inspect meters, meter boxes, and related equipment for damage or leaks. * Maintain accurate records ...

... accurately reading water meters for billing, maintenance, and operational purposes. Ensures ... Inspect meters, meter boxes, and related equipment for damage or leaks. * Maintain accurate records ...

Water Operator

Astoria, OR · On-site

$23/hr

Ability to take accurate gauge and meter readings and maintain necessary records for water treatment documentation. * Ability to learn and effectively use computers, databases and SCADA system to ...

Ability to take accurate gauge and meter readings and maintain necessary records for water treatment documentation. * Ability to learn and effectively use computers, databases and SCADA system to ...

Water Operator

Astoria, OR · On-site

$23/hr

Ability to take accurate gauge and meter readings and maintain necessary records for water treatment documentation.Ability to learn and effectively use computers, databases and SCADA system to ...

Utility Worker

Astoria, OR · On-site

$24.88 - $33.51/hr

Reads and updates water meter records.Performs routine maintenance on City buildings and equipment.Represent the City in a positive and professional manner. Maintain cooperative working relationships ...

Utility Worker

Astoria, OR · On-site

$24.88 - $33.51/hr

Reads and updates water meter records. * Performs routine maintenance on City buildings and equipment. * Represent the City in a positive and professional manner. Maintain cooperative working ...

Utility Worker

Astoria, OR · On-site

$27.57 - $33.51/hr

Reads and updates water meter records. * Performs routine maintenance on City buildings and equipment. * Represent the City in a positive and professional manner. Maintain cooperative working ...

... gas, water and electric utility meter reading and related technologies Experience with GIS mapping software such as MapInfo Experience with GPS and coordinate data Experience with RF propagation ...

... water and electric utility meter reading and related technologies • Experience with GIS mapping software such as MapInfo • Experience with GPS and coordinate data • Experience with RF ...

QC

Dallas, OR · On-site

$15.55/hr

Use analytical instruments to obtain o Water Activity values using Water Activity Meter o Moisture ... Perform pre-operational sanitation verification using ATP swabs and ATP reader * Submit work orders ...

... amp meter. Ability to conduct shift rounds with an introductory understanding of readings and ... Soft water system requirements Boiler water testing Adding oil to liquid ammonia pumps Condenser ...

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Water Meter Reader information

See Oregon salary details

$25.4K

$49.1K

$87.2K

How much do water meter reader jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for water meter reader in Oregon is $49,130.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38,600.00 and $53,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a water meter reader do?

As a water meter reader, your job is to support the utilities of your area by reading residential, commercial, industrial, and park water meters to ensure correct billing. To support this, you may provide repair and customer service, and monitor the water network for problems. In this job, you often use hand-held computers to input data about meters, code violations, needed repairs, and hazardous conditions. Other times, you talk with business owners and maintenance engineers, confirm earlier readings for unusually high or low results, and use equipment to search for toxic gases. Most readers check up to 500 water meters each day.

What does a water meter reader do?

A Water Meter Reader is responsible for visiting residential, commercial, and industrial properties to record water usage by reading water meters. They ensure accurate meter readings, report any irregularities or signs of leaks, and sometimes handle minor maintenance tasks. The data they collect is used by water utilities to generate customer bills and monitor water consumption. Water Meter Readers often work outdoors in various weather conditions and may interact with customers to answer basic questions about their water usage.

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

To thrive as a Water Meter Reader, you need attention to detail, basic math skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with handheld data collection devices, GPS systems, and utility billing software is typically required. Strong communication, time management, and problem-solving skills help you interact with customers and efficiently handle route schedules. These abilities ensure accurate readings, timely reporting, and excellent customer service, which are vital for efficient utility operations.

What are some common challenges faced by water meter readers and how can they be managed?

Water Meter Readers often work outdoors in varying weather conditions, which can pose physical challenges such as extreme heat, cold, or rain. Additionally, navigating private properties and dealing with potential obstacles like locked gates or pets require professionalism and problem-solving skills. Time management is crucial, as meeting daily or weekly reading targets is a key responsibility. Building a routine, staying organized, and adhering to safety protocols can help manage these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Water Meter Reader vs Water Service Technician?

AspectWater Meter ReaderWater Service Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; training on meter readingHigh school diploma; may require certifications in plumbing or water systems
Work EnvironmentOutdoor, reading meters at customer locationsIndoor and outdoor; repairing and maintaining water systems
Employer & IndustryWater utility companies, municipalitiesWater utility companies, plumbing services
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The main difference is that Water Meter Readers primarily focus on reading and recording water usage data, often outdoors at customer sites, while Water Service Technicians handle repairs, maintenance, and troubleshooting of water systems. Both roles are essential in water utility operations but differ in responsibilities and skill requirements.

Is it hard to become a water meter reader?

Becoming a water meter reader typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and the ability to read meters accurately. The job involves physical activity, working outdoors, and sometimes operating basic tools or devices, but it generally does not require extensive training or certifications.

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

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

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

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

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Water Meter Reader jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Water Meter Reader job openings:

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

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

Infographic showing various Water Meter Reader job openings in Oregon as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $49,130 per year, or $23.6 per hour.

Utility Meter Reader

City of Salem

Salem, OR • On-site

$26.78 - $32.57/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Job Summary Make an impact: As a Utility Meter Reader, you'll play a key role in supporting the City of Salem's water services. You'll make sure accurate water usage data for customers by reading meters on assigned routes and documenting service needs for repairs or inspections. Your work helps maintains the City's water infrastructure and provides essential services to the community.

You'll also interact with customers in the field, answering their questions and resolving concerns, making a direct impact on their experience with City services. Learn and grow: This position offers opportunities to develop your skills in customer service, technology, and field operations. You'll gain hands-on experience with water meter reading equipment, troubleshooting issues, and working with a diverse community.

The City of Salem values growth and will support you in building your knowledge and abilities to advance your career. What you will do: In this role, you'll spend most of your day in the field reading water meters using handheld devices or manual methods. You'll document service needs for meters and meter boxes that require inspection or repair.

You'll also interact with customers to answer questions, address concerns, and resolve issues when meter access is limited. Additional duties include performing shutoffs or reinstating water services as directed, responding to after-hours service calls, and maintaining City equipment and vehicles. Your work ensures accurate billing and helps keep the City's water services running smoothly.

Additional information on job responsibilities: Frequent contact with utility customers and the public. Walk or drive assigned routes to read and collect water meter data, document service needs, and ensure accurate billing. Inspect meters and meter boxes to identify issues such as damage, obstructions, leaks, or unauthorized connections, and report findings for further investigation or repair.

Respond to after-hours service calls, perform water service shutoffs or reinstatements, and maintain City equipment and vehicles used in daily operations. Utility Meter Readers must exercise independent judgement in completing tasks as well as work in a team environment when needed to complete routes based on tight deadlines. What can we offer you for all your hard work.

Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family. Paid vacation and sick time in accordance with City policies. Competitive pay.

Employer-paid PERS contribution of 6%. Opportunity for voluntary pre-tax contributions to a 457b account. Health care and dependent care flexible spending accounts.

Voluntary long-term care. Employee wellness program. Employee assistance program.

Employee health clinic. Position schedule is 7:00 am- 3:30 pm and 6:00 am - 2:30 pm. The City of Salem offers a comprehensive and equitable base salary within the listed range based on your experience, skills, and education.

We encourage you to clearly describe how you meet the minimum qualifications and essential attributes in your application materials. Learn more about Equal Pay. What are the minimum qualifications.

Must pass the pre-employment background check. Must have an Oregon Driver's License, or the ability to obtain an Oregon license within 30 days of residency and meet the City of Salem's driving standards. Graduation from high school or completion of General Education Development (GED) test, and one year customer service or any equivalent combination of education, experience and training that provides the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential job functions.

Hiring managers do not have access to view resumes as part of the application review process, please make sure to give detailed information in your application that includes your experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities as requested in the supplemental questions and job advertisement. What you will bring along: Knowledge of water meter reading operations, equipment, and technology, with the ability to accurately collect and record data using handheld devices or manual methods. Strong customer service skills to effectively communicate with a diverse community, resolve concerns, and maintain composure in stressful situations.

Ability to follow instructions, prioritize tasks, and maintain accurate records while fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace. About us: Salem is the second largest city in Oregon and the capital city. Centrally located in the Willamette Valley, Salem is 49 square miles in size and extends across to counties, Marion and Polk.

The community has well-established neighborhoods and carefully preserved historic buildings with wide diversity and a family-friendly ambiance. The city is home to nearly 180,000 residents. For a full community profile detailing demographics and housing statistics, visit the City of Salem website.

The City of Salem organization has eight primary departments: Community Services, Finance, Fire, Enterprise Services, Legal, Police, Public Works, and Community Planning and Development. Several departments also have functional divisions within their department. The City of Salem employs roughly 1,350 talented and dedicated staff members and works collaboratively with five labor unions.

The Salem Police Department is the fourth largest agency in Oregon. We are a full-service department with myriad special teams and career advancement opportunities. In November 2020, the department moved into a modern 104,000-square-foot facility with many amenities for employees, featuring purposeful efficiency design for operations and amenities that promote employee wellness.

The Public Works Department values employees and their professional development. If you are someone that takes pride in collaborating on innovative ideas, proactively responding to community needs, and being a good environmental and financial steward, we look forward to meeting you. The Public Works Department promotes a healthy work life balance, while maintaining the utmost dedication to the health, safety, and welfare of our community, including our team.

The Urban Renewal Agency and the Salem Housing Authority are separate municipal corporations. The Agency contracts with the City for services and the Authority is led by the Housing Administrator within the Urban Development department. Where can I find out more about the position.

Go to the menu option for Class Specifications and search for Utility Meter Reader or view by clicking here. How can I apply. The City of Salem invites individuals of all diverse communities and backgrounds to apply for our available job opportunities as we strive to provide the best service to everyone.

The City of Salem is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all and has a culture that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe that by welcoming differences, encouraging new ideas and views, listening to, and learning from each other, we are better able to serve the community. To apply, click on the green "Apply" button to complete your application.

Applicants that meet the minimum qualifications as outlined above but not selected for this position may be placed on an eligibility list, and candidates may be hired from the list. Eligibility lists are valid for six months. The City will send email notifications to eligible candidates about potential hiring opportunities so please ensure your email settings accept our system generated email notifications.

You may subscribe for automatic notification of job openings at the City of Salem through the Job Interest Cards - sign up today. For more information about employment at the City of Salem, please visit our website at www.cityofsalem.net/jobs. This announcement is not an implied contract and may be modified or revoked without notice.