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Water Meter Reader Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Alexander's Contract Services, Inc

Meter Reader

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$17 - $22.50/hr

Job Type Full-time Description Water Meter Reader - Virginia Beach / Norfolk, VA Why Join Us? At Alexander's Contract Services, Inc. - a family-owned company since 1967 - we're not just hiring meter ...

City Of Arlington

$25.02 - $31.27/hr

Perform chlorine residual testing, re-size service connections and assist Meter Reading in ... Water services * Water taps * Fire hydrants * Valves * Sewer mains * Sewer services * Manholes

City Of Arlington

$23.40 - $29.25/hr

Perform chlorine residual testing, re-size service connections and assist Meter Reading in ... Knowledge of Water Utilities operations; policies, procedures, ordinances. * Knowledge of ...

Prince William Water

Utility Inspector II

Woodbridge, VA · On-site

$80K - $106K/yr

Perform incidental inspections on water meter installations, fire flow, line location, availability ... Ability to perform inspections of larger and more complex types of projects; read and interpret ...

City Of Arlington

$18.79 - $23.49/hr

Perform chlorine residual testing, re-size service connections and assist Meter Reading in ... Water services * AMI infrastructure * Fire hydrants * Valves * Manholes City of Arlington is an ...

ServiceMaster

Water Restoration Technician

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Responsible for making daily adjustments to the drying plan based on meter readings * Inspects jobs ... WTR - Water Damage Restoration Technician * ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician Physical ...

ServiceMaster

Water Restoration Technician

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

Responsible for making daily adjustments to the drying plan based on meter readings * Inspects jobs ... WTR - Water Damage Restoration Technician * ASD - Applied Structural Drying Technician Physical ...

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All JobsWater Meter Reader JobsWater Meter Reader Jobs in Virginia

Water Meter Reader information

See Virginia salary details

$23.8K

$46.1K

$81.8K

How much do water meter reader jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for water meter reader in Virginia is $46,070.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $36,200.00 and $50,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is it hard to become a meter reader?

Becoming a water meter reader typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent and the ability to read maps and use basic tools. The job involves outdoor work, physical activity, and attention to detail, but it generally does not require extensive training or certifications. The difficulty varies depending on the employer and location, but it is often considered an entry-level position.

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 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 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.

How to be a water meter reader?

To become a water meter reader, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, a valid driver's license, and good communication skills. The job involves reading meters at customer locations, often using handheld devices or mobile data collection tools, and may require physical activity such as walking or climbing. Training is usually provided by the employer to familiarize new employees with safety procedures and meter reading techniques.

Is meter reading still a job?

Yes, meter reading remains a job in many utility companies, where workers are responsible for recording water, gas, or electricity usage. The role typically involves outdoor work, using handheld devices or electronic meters, and may require a valid driver's license and physical stamina.

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 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.

How much do water meter technicians make?

Water meter technicians typically earn an average annual salary between $40,000 and $60,000, depending on experience, location, and employer. They often perform tasks such as reading, maintaining, and repairing water meters, sometimes requiring certification or specialized training.
More about Water Meter Reader jobs
What are popular job titles related to Water Meter Reader jobs in Virginia? For Water Meter Reader jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Water Meter Reader jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Water Meter Reader jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Water Meter Reader jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Water Meter Reader job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Water Meter Reader jobs in VA? For Water Meter Reader jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Water Meter Reader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Meter Reader job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 86% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,070 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Meter Reader

Alexanders Contract Services, Inc.

Norfolk, VA • On-site

$46K/yr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Description:Water Meter Reader – Virginia Beach / Norfolk, VA

Why Join Us?
At Alexander’s Contract Services, Inc. - a family-owned company since 1967 - we’re not just hiring meter readers. We’re building a team of dependable professionals who get the job done right, no matter the conditions. Rain, heat, cold, or long days - you’ll be part of an elite group that thrives where others fall short.

Full Time & Part Time positions available.


Compensation
  • Annual Base Pay: 35,360 – $46,800 (equivalent to $17-$22.50/hour, depending on performance).
  • Performance-Based Incentives: After training, a minimum of 300 meter readings per day is required. Our top readers average 300–600 per day nationally, and higher performance is rewarded.
  • Overtime Pay: For hours worked beyond 40 per week.
Performance Expectations
  • Minimum of 300 meter readings per day once trained.
  • Ability to stay on pace regardless of weather or challenges.
  • Maintain a can-do attitude.
Duties & Responsibilities
  • Record water meter readings using a lightweight Android Smartphone.
  • Work independently outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Provide courteous, professional interactions with customers.
  • Safely operate a vehicle with frequent stops and starts.
  • Complete assigned routes without cutting corners.
Requirements
  • High school diploma or GED preferred but not required.
  • Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
  • Must pass background, DMV, and drug screenings.
  • Vehicle insurance required for all employees.
  • Must be ready to use your personal insured vehicle if requested by management.
  • Physically capable of walking 1 to 5 miles daily, with frequent bending, crouching, stair climbing, and lifting up to 45 lbs.
  • Dependable, detail-oriented, and resilient in tough conditions.
Benefits
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • 401(k) retirement plan.
  • Paid Time Off (PTO).
  • Comprehensive training and advancement opportunities.
  • Immediate openings available.

Transportation & Driving (Essential Function): This role requires daily travel between worksites and operation of a motor vehicle on company business. As a condition of employment, you must (1) maintain a valid driver’s license and an acceptable motor-vehicle record, and (2) maintain state-required auto liability insurance (at least Virginia minimums). If you use a personal vehicle, business mileage is reimbursed at the company’s published rate.


The Kind of People We Want

We’re looking for a few good men and women - those who want to prove themselves as part of an elite team. If you value hard work, precision, and pride in a job well done, you’ll fit right in. This is not just a paycheck; it’s about excellence, reliability, and performance.

Ready to Apply?

If you’re reliable, hardworking, and ready to rise to the challenge, join us.

Apply today and build a career where performance matters—and only the best stick with the team.


Requirements:

What You’ll Need

• Strong work ethic, reliability, and a willingness to learn

• High School Diploma or GED

• Basic mobile device skills

• Valid driver’s license and current vehicle insurance

• Able to use personal vehicle

• Clean background check, DMV report, and drug/alcohol screening

• Ability to work independently, stay focused, and meet daily route goals

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work outdoors year-round