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Water Meter Reader Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

... water meter installation. Inspects driveways by checking the density and grade of cement ... Additional Preferred Skills Experience reading and interpreting construction drawings for the ...

Engineering Inspector

Durham, NC · On-site

$50K - $78K/yr

... water meter installation. * Inspects driveways by checking the density and grade of cement ... Experience reading and interpreting construction drawings for the design of water, sewer and storm ...

Responds to and repairs water line and meter leaks. Leads and participates in establishing proper ... Ability to read and follow blueprints and construction drawings. Ability to establish and maintain ...

Performs fire/smoke damage repair and tasks to include water extraction, pack-out of contents ... Responsible for making daily adjustments to the drying plan based on meter readings * Inspects jobs ...

Performs fire/smoke damage repair and tasks to include water extraction, pack-out of contents ... Responsible for making daily adjustments to the drying plan based on meter readings * Inspects jobs ...

Performs fire/smoke damage repair and tasks to include water extraction, pack-out of contents ... Responsible for making daily adjustments to the drying plan based on meter readings * Inspects jobs ...

Performs fire/smoke damage repair and tasks to include water extraction, pack-out of contents ... Responsible for making daily adjustments to the drying plan based on meter readings * Inspects jobs ...

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Showing results 1-20

Water Meter Reader information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$23.3K

$45.2K

$80.2K

How much do water meter reader jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average yearly pay for water meter reader in Raleigh, NC is $45,169.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $35,500.00 and $49,600.00 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 Raleigh, NC?

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

What job categories do people searching Water Meter Reader jobs in Raleigh, NC look for?

The top searched job categories for Water Meter Reader jobs in Raleigh, NC are:

What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Water Meter Reader jobs?

Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Water Meter Reader job openings:

Infographic showing various Water Meter Reader job openings in Raleigh, NC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,169 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Water Distribution Operator I

Fuquay-Varina, NC

Fuquay Varina, NC • On-site

$51K - $83K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Salary : $51,920.00 - $83,073.00 Annually
Location : Fuquay-Varina, NC
Job Type: Full Time
Job Number: 202400192
Department: Public Utilities
Division: Water
Opening Date: 07/30/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
Working Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00 am - 4:00 pm
Pay Grade: 13
Job Overview
This job posting may close without notice.
Performs responsible unskilled and semi-skilled work in the installation, replacement, repair and preventive maintenance of water lines, and water meter replacement and repair; assists with sewer work as needed. An employee in this class performs a variety of unskilled and semi-skilled work as a member of a crew engaged in the construction, installation and repair of water lines and appurtenances. Work includes making taps to water and sewer mains, installing hydrants, meters, and valves, and making repairs to the water and sewer system. Other tasks include assisting in the operation of video camera equipment to identify system problems, performing preventive maintenance and repair to water and sewer pumping stations, and related tasks. Employees are subject working in both inside and outside environments, in extreme hot and cold weather, and exposure to various hazards such as loud noises, vibration, moving mechanical parts, electrical current, chemicals, fumes, odors, dusts, mists, gases, poor ventilation, and oils. Work is also subject to the final standards of OSHA on blood borne pathogens. Employees are also subject to on-call and call-back work. Work is performed under regular supervision and is evaluated through observation and inspection for adherence to instructions and standard trade and safety practices.
Essential Duties and Tasks
  • Operates tapping machine to make water and sewer taps and service connections; sets meter boxes and installs meters.
  • Installs new water and sewer service lines; repairs and replaces sewer and water lines, valves, hydrants, and other related structures.
  • Installs, services and tests water meters and meter yokes.
  • Participates in hydrant and valve exercising and maintenance programs.
  • Operates backhoe, front end loader, dump trucks, jackhammers, tampers, jetting and rodding machine, skid steer, lawn mowers, pipe threading machines, tapping machines, trenchers, air compressors, and boring machines.
  • Installs hydrants, meters, valves, clamps, and related pipeline apparatus; sets meter boxes; repairs and replaces fire hydrants.
  • Sets up safety zones and flags traffic.
  • Participates in pressure testing new lines.
  • Maintains necessary parts and supplies on assigned truck; notifies supervisor on supply needs.
  • Completes work order forms manually or on tablets or laptops.
  • Operates the sewer rodder and/or jet machine to unclog sewer lines if needed and on-call.
  • Performs other related tasks as required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Working knowledge of the tools, materials and equipment used in the installation, replacement, maintenance and repair of utility lines.
  • Working knowledge of a variety of maintenance and manual methods and tasks involved in the installation, maintenance, repair and replacement of water and sewer lines and appurtenances.
  • Working knowledge of the use of common hand and power tools.
  • Working knowledge of the safe use and operation and preventive maintenance of common automotive and mechanical equipment.
  • Working knowledge of the occupational hazards and safety precautions needed in the work.
  • Working knowledge of the application of technology to work assignments.
  • Some knowledge of the municipal water service policies and procedures.
  • Skilled in the operation of a light and medium size construction equipment.
  • Skilled in customer contact.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors, co-workers and the public.
  • Ability to read utility line maps and operation and service manuals and to understand and follow oral and written instructions.
  • Ability to complete simple reports.

Requirements
Physical Requirements
  • Must be able to physically perform the basic life operational functions of climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, feeling, talking, hearing, and repetitive motions.
  • Must be able to perform very heavy work exerting up to 100 pounds of force occasionally; 50 pounds of force frequently; and 20 pounds constantly.
  • Must possess the visual acuity to operate mobile equipment such as loaders and dump trucks in a safe manner to fit pipes and other parts, read gauges, and make written records.
Education and Experience
  • Graduation from high school and experience in maintenance and/or construction-related utility work including some equipment operation experience: or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Special Requirements
  • Possession of valid North Carolina driver's license.
  • Ability to obtain a NC CDL Class A with Tanker Endorsement within 6-months from date of hire.
  • Ability to obtain a Grade C Distribution Certification with 12-months from date of hire.
  • This position is designated as critical personnel, requiring performance of duties during inclement weather or other emergency situations to ensure continuity of town services.
Additional Information
  • The starting salary will be determined based on the selected candidate's skills and qualifications.
  • Required: Please attach any certifications, degrees, etc. If you have issues attaching documents, you can email to hr@fuquay-varina.org
    • If you do not attach, you will be asked to provide copies upon being hired if position requires.
If you have technical issues submitting your application, please call the NEOGOV Help Line at 855-524-5627. If there are any questions about this posting, other than your application status, please contact the Human Resources Office. If multiple applications are submitted to an individual posting, only the most recent application received before the closing date will be accepted.
To check the status of your application, please log on to your NEOGOV account and click "Application Status". It is not necessary to contact the Human Resources Office to check the status of an application. Normal processing time for applications is ~20-30 days from the closing date of the posting.
When a salary range is posted, the actual salary will be based on relevant competencies, knowledge, skills & abilities, internal equity, and budgetary considerations pertinent to the advertised position. The Town of Fuquay-Varina is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The hiring salary will not exceed the hiring pay range unless approved by the Town Manager.
The Town of Fuquay-Varina is a drug and alcohol-free workplace. All offers of employment are contingent upon the successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening.
The Town of Fuquay-Varina aims to be a dash-more! Below is the comprehensive benefits package for all regular, full-time employees:
  • Employer-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
  • Employer-paid Employee Life Insurance
  • Participation in the North Carolina Local Government Employees' Retirement System
  • Five percent (5%) employer contribution to the NC 401(k)
  • Optional 457(b) Supplemental Retirement Plan
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Paid Vacation, Sick, and Holiday Leave
  • Bereavement Leave (40 hours)
  • Shared Leave
  • Paid Parental Leave (6 weeks)
  • Paid Eldercare Leave (120 hours)
  • Dash-More Time (32 hours)
  • Membership with Local Government Federal Credit Union
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Longevity Pay
  • Christmas Bonus
  • On-site gym (Town Hall and Community Center)
  • Optional Supplemental Term Life Insurance
  • Optional STD, Accident, Cancer, Medical Bridge, Critical Illness, & Whole Life Insurance
  • Medical Expense Reimbursement Plan (MERP)

01
Do you have a valid Class A Driver's License with tanker endorsement?
  • Yes
  • No

02
If you answered NO to the above question, can you obtain Class A Commercial Driver's License with tanker endorsement within (6) months of employment?
  • Yes
  • No

03
Do you have experience in the installation, replacement, repair, and preventive maintenance of water lines, sanitary sewer lines, and water meter replacement and repair? If "yes", please detail your experience. If "no", please write N/A.
04
Describe your experience operating a backhoe, front-end loader, dump trucks, jackhammers, tampers, jetting and rodding machines, and skid steer. If "no" experience, please write N/A.
Required Question