Water Meter Technician

Performs skilled work connecting and disconnecting water service; reading, programming, repair, and maintenance of meters; and investigation of customer complaints. The City of Kingsport does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin, sex, disability, age, status as a protected veteran, or any other class protected by Federal or State laws and regulations. Responsibilities Installs water meters in response to applications for water service; Investigates meters to determine if they are functioning properly; Takes consumption readings on meters with meter reading system, or manually; Cuts water service at customer request when residences are vacated; Works with Customer Service to investigate issues concerning water bills; Inspects connections, checks readings and checks for leaks aiding customer in locating leaks on their side of meter; Responds to customer concerns regarding pressure and volume problems; Investigates water thefts; Disconnects, reconnects, and replaces meters when payment obligations are met; Enters confined spaces such as meter pits; Repairs leaks in meter boxes around meters, as necessary; Replaces damaged, stopped and outdated meters; Tests meters after pulling meter from meter box, hooks up test machine to verify accuracy; Enters and completes work tasks on tablet and/or computer to ensure accurate history is maintained; Programs meters to proper settings to ensure accurate readings; and Performs other duties as assigned. Qualifications Knowledge of occupational hazards and appropriate safety precautions; Knowledge of geography and street layout of the water service area and the locations of meters and curb boxes; Knowledge of utility policies; Ability to work in an environment subject to exposure to a variety of weather conditions with extended periods of walking, stooping, bending, and lifting; Skill in use of tools required for connecting and disconnecting water service, repairing waterlines, and testing meters; Skill in writing legibly and making calculations quickly and accurately; Skill in communicating effectively orally and tactfully with customers in explaining policies and procedures of the water services division; Skill in establishing and maintaining effective working relationships with city employees, and the general public; High school graduate or high school equivalent; Experience equivalent to one year full time work in water line construction and maintenance, meter reading, customer service work or closely related area is preferred; Current TN/VA Driver's License; Obtain proper training in confined space entry within 6 months of hire/promotion; Obtain certification through AWWA Customer Service Certificate Program within 6 months of hire/promotion. #J-18808-Ljbffr