Meter Reader I

The purpose of this classification is to read and report consumption rates for water meters on an assigned route for the Consolidated Government's water utility. Reports to the Meter Reader Supervisor or other designated person. Works with co-workers and the public to provide operations support. Performs all other duties as assigned. THIS POSITION REQUIRES OCCASIONAL HOLIDAYS AND WEEKEND WORK IN ALL TYPES OF WEATHER CONDITIONS.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

Performs meter-reading activities on an assigned route and records meter data while verifying accuracy of readings. Troubleshoots high/low water bills, research abnormal meter readings and re-reads meters with unusual usage levels. Verifies that meters are registering consumption accurately.


Generates service orders to replace or repair non-registering meters and broken meter boxes. Identifies meters needing replacement or repair and enters data into computer systems. Verifies accuracy of information entered and submits service order.


Performs routine maintenance on assigned truck and equipment. Conducts pre- and post-trip inspections, including checking all fluids, gauges, lighting, mirrors, tires, body damage, seats, seatbelts, and cleanliness of vehicle. Reports all problems or necessary repairs to appropriate personnel immediately. Completes and maintains inspection checklists, fuel usage and other associated documentation as required.


Adheres to established safety procedures. Monitors work environment and the use of safety equipment to ensure safety of employees and other individuals.

Communicates to customers or leaves notice concerning leaks and complaints of high consumption. Reports leaks to meter maintenance

As Required Performs other duties of a similar nature or level.

POSITION SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES MIGHT INCLUDE :

• Drives truck along assigned route and reads meters, either manually or by radio-read including drive-by devices.
• Loads new accounts into reading route.
• Interacts with customers regarding their meter and consumption.
• Reports suspected leaks to meter maintenance.
• Marks curb to show location of meter.
• Assures vehicle and equipment is properly maintained.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

• Basic customer service knowledge.
• Minimum knowledge of mechanical devices.
• Capable of learning water meter functions.
• Experience using standard tools (wrenches, screwdrivers, and shovel, operating a motor vehicle, and a two-way radio).
• Ability to work with computer technology related to radio read meter reading.
• Ability to interact with the public calmly and clearly if called upon to discuss problems at the location.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and still meet deadlines.
• Ability to adapt to the policies of Augusta, Georgia, which govern the use of its fleet vehicles and equipment.

Required minimum qualifications:

Education: High School diploma or GED


Experience: One year (1) of work experience that shows an ability to maintain steady employment in any field; preferably in public works such as water service utility.

Certification: N/A

Licensing: Possession of a valid driver's license with good driving history. If state license is other than Georgia or South Carolina, applicant must obtain a license in Georgia or South Carolina within 30 days of employment.

PERFORMANCE APTITUDE:

• Data Utilization: Requires the ability to determine, calculate, tabulate, or summarize data/information, following a prescribed plan requiring the exercise of some judgment. Includes performing subsequent actions in relation to these computational operations.
• Human Interactions: Requires the ability to provide guidance, assistance, and/or interpretation to others regarding the application of procedures and standards to specific situations.
• Equipment: Requires the ability to operate, maneuver and/or control the actions of equipment, machinery, tools, and/or materials used in performing essential functions.
• Verbal: Requires the ability to utilize a wide variety of reference and descriptive data and information.
• Math: Requires the ability to perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. May include counting, recording of counts, and basic measuring.
• Functional Reasoning: Requires the ability to carry out instructions furnished in written, oral, or diagrammatic form. Involves semi-routine standardized work with some latitude for independent judgment concerning choices of action.
• Situational Reasoning: Requires the ability to exercise judgment, decisiveness and creativity in situations involving evaluation of information against measurable or verifiable criteria.
• Physical Abilities: Tasks require the ability to exert moderate, though not constant physical effort, typically involving some combination of climbing and balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, crawling, and prolonged standing, and which may involve some lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of objects and materials of moderate weight (12-20 pounds).
• Sensory Requirements: Some tasks require the ability to perceive and discriminate sounds, odor, depth, and visual cues or signals.

Travel from the office to other locations is required of the position.

The percentage of travel involved is less than 50%.

The preceding job description has been designed to indicate the general nature and level of work performed by employees within this classification. It is not designed to contain or be interpreted as a comprehensive inventory of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications required of employees to this job.