Day in the life
A Day in the Life of a Meter Reader
What meter readers actually do from the start of a shift to the end: the tasks, tools, schedule and realities of the job.
What is a typical day like for a meter reader?
Load the route. From there, the day usually includes read meters, record usage, and check for tampering. Full-time daytime hours.
Hour by hour: a typical shift
No two days are identical, but this timeline reflects a realistic day for a meter reader working full time.
- Load the route.
- Read meters.
- Report a damaged meter.
- Lunch.
- Check a smart meter not reporting.
- Do a service disconnect.
- Upload data.
Where meter readers work
Meter readers work outdoors on routes.
Hours and schedule
Full-time daytime hours.
Tasks you’ll do most often
- Read meters
- Record usage
- Check for tampering
- Report damage
- Help install smart meters
- Connect or disconnect service
- Answer questions
Tools you’ll use every day
- Handheld readers
- Smart meter tools
- Vehicles
- Flashlights
- Locks and seals
- GPS
The best and hardest parts of the job
What people like
- Outdoor work
- Independent
- Short training
- Utility benefits
What’s hard
- Steep decline
- Weather
- Dogs
- Walking all day
You’ll likely thrive if…
- I like being outside
- I work well alone
- I don’t mind walking
- I’m reliable
- I want utility benefits
- I want short training
Not sure? Take the free Meter Reader fit quiz or the Career Match Quiz.
Staying safe on the job
- Watch for dogs
- Don’t touch tampered meters
- Drive safely
- Watch for electrical hazards