ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

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

City of Durham

Engineering Inspector

Durham, NC

$50K - $78K/yr

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

City of Durham, NC

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 ...

All JobsWater Meter Reader JobsWater Meter Reader Jobs in Raleigh, NC

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 Jul 26, 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.

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 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:
Water Meter Reader jobs near you
Infographic showing various Water Meter Reader job openings in Raleigh, NC as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $45,169 per year, or $21.7 per hour.
Water Treatment Operator (ST II)

Water Treatment Operator (ST II)

ENVIROLINK

Raleigh, NC

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

The Team Member in this position is responsible for the maintenance and operation of wastewater collection and water distribution systems and equipment. The incumbent will perform routine to complex technical and administrative assignments including analyzing and evaluating issues related to the distribution of water and collection of wastewater as well as other duties as required or assigned. 

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • The essential function of the position within the organization is to participate in the operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities, water distribution facilities and wastewater collection facilities to deliver safe potable water and efficient collection of sanitary sewers. Under limited supervision, the position is responsible for lift stations inspections, collection of water samples, water testing, performing utility locates, inspection of booster stations, operation of chemical feed systems, occasional meter reading, meter replacements, meter setting, troubleshooting pumps & motors, responding to customer inquiries, and other duties as assigned.  
  • This position does interact with customers and the public, so professional communication is important.
  • The position utilizes software for management and tracking duties and tasks. Computer skills and good record keeping are key.

US Citizen. E-Verification required. No felonies or major misdemeanors. High school diploma or equivalent.

One (1) year of experience in water or wastewater. Preference given to applicants with an A-Surface license.

Must possess and maintain a valid North Carolina Driver’s License.

Excellent communication skills required including demonstrated fluency with reading, writing and speaking the English language. Readily accessible by phone with ability to work "on-call" for emergencies.

Envirolink, Inc. is a drug-free work place. Initial and random drug testing is required. Successful candidate must submit to post offer, pre-employment physical examination/medical history check.

Must pass a pre-employment criminal background check.

Apply