Meter Technician/Meter Reader

Join Our Team as a Meter Technician/Meter Reader

Santa Margarita Water District is hiring for multiple opportunities within our Customer Service Field Team. Immediate opening: Meter Technician (Full-Time) SMWD is seeking a detail-oriented and customer-focused Meter Technician to help ensure the accuracy and reliability of the District's water metering systems. This field-based role plays a critical part in supporting water conservation, revenue protection, and exceptional customer service through the inspection, maintenance, testing, and repair of water meters and related equipment. Immediate opening: Limited-Term Meter Reader We are also seeking a Limited-Term Meter Reader to join our team immediately. This position is a great opportunity for individuals who enjoy working independently in the field and gaining hands-on experience in utility operations. Potential Future Opportunity: Meter Reader (Full-Time) In addition to our current openings, we anticipate the possibility of a full-time Meter Reader position becoming available in the near future!

If you enjoy troubleshooting, working independently in the field, and solving problems that directly impact customers and system performance, these are great opportunities to build a rewarding career in utility operations.

About the Roles

Meter Technician Under general supervision, the Meter Technician performs skilled work involving the installation, inspection, testing, maintenance, calibration, and repair of residential, commercial, and large-service water meters and related equipment. The position is responsible for investigating meter-related issues, supporting customer service requests, and ensuring accurate meter operation and consumption data. This role requires strong mechanical aptitude, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently while interacting professionally with customers, contractors, and District staff. The Meter Technician serves as a key resource in maintaining the integrity of the District's metering infrastructure and water usage data.

Limited Term Meter Reader Under general supervision, the Meter Reader performs routine field work related to the accurate reading, recording, and reporting of residential, commercial, and irrigation water meter consumption. The position is responsible for collecting meter data, identifying and reporting irregularities such as leaks, damaged meters, inaccessible meter locations, or unusual consumption patterns, and assisting with basic customer inquiries regarding meter readings and water usage.

This role requires strong attention to detail, the ability to work independently in a field environment, and the physical stamina to walk extended routes in varying weather conditions. The Meter Reader serves as an important link between the District and its customers by helping ensure accurate billing, reliable consumption data, and the efficient operation of the District's water distribution system.

Salary Information

Meter Technician $65,772.98 - $90,669.28 Annually Meter Reader $49,569.26 - $68,331.64 Annually Please note: Effective July 1, 2027, all classes will receive a 3% COLA increase (Cost of Living Adjustment)

Meet Santa Margarita Water District

Santa Margarita Water District is a dynamic, forward-thinking agency dedicated to delivering high-quality potable water, recycled water, and wastewater services to its 200,000 customers across Southern Orange County. As one of the region's largest and most impactful utilities, we are committed to the highest standards of transparency, innovation, and environmental stewardship.

Our people drive our progress, innovation, and results. Our collaborative, human-first culture fosters the sense of fun, comradery, and a rewarding sense of purpose as we do work that matters.

Dynamic teams of intelligent individuals work collaboratively to achieve SMWD's goals and solve challenges with a common aim that fosters a unique bond that is not often found in governmental agencies.

Santa Margarita Water District's values include:

• Exemplary service excellence
• Intelligent innovation that is forward-thinking and adaptive
• Ethical fiscal responsibility and transparency
• Environmental and resource stewardship
• Employee development and leadership training
• Building relationships that strengthen communities

Essential Functions

What You Will Do

• Install, inspect, test, maintain, repair, and replace water meters and related metering equipment
• Investigate high-consumption reports, billing inquiries, leaks, and meter accuracy concerns
• Perform meter testing and calibration to ensure compliance with District standards and industry practices
• Troubleshoot meter communication equipment, registers, transmitters, and automated meter reading systems
• Collect, analyze, and document meter and consumption data
• Coordinate with customers, contractors, and District personnel regarding meter installations, repairs, and service requests
• Maintain accurate records, reports, and work orders related to meter activities
• Operate District vehicles, tools, and equipment safely and efficiently
• Support water conservation, revenue protection, and customer service initiatives through accurate meter management

What You Bring

• Strong mechanical and troubleshooting skills
• Experience working with water meters, utility systems, or related mechanical equipment
• Ability to analyze data, identify discrepancies, and resolve technical issues
• Strong customer service and communication skills
• Ability to work independently and manage field assignments effectively
• Commitment to safety, accuracy, and reliable service delivery

Requisite Abilities/Qualifications & Guidelines

Education & Experience

Meter Technician: Graduation from high school or GED equivalent. One year of experience reading meters and testing or replacing/repairing or calibrating meters (5//8" through 36") in either the field or shop settings is preferred. Possession of or the ability to obtain a valid California Class C driver's license and the ability to maintain insurability under the District's vehicle insurance program. California State Water Resources Control Board Grade 1 Water Distribution Certificate.

Meter Reader: Graduation from high school or GED equivalent; one year of customer service experience is desirable. Basic mathematical skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division); general computer programs related to the work; safe work methods and safety precautions related to the work.