Meter Services Technician

Job Purpose

• Under general direction, performs tasks in meter services with duties including: customer service inquiries, meter reading, meter repair and maintenance, investigation of water leaks, coordination of water shutoffs

Current Pay Rates

• $17.58 per hour - Starting Rate
• $19.29 per hour - 6 Months with Good Performance
• $19.54 per hour - 12 Months with Good Performance
• $20.78 per hour - Job Maximum with Merit Raises
• Cost of Living Adjustments are typically granted yearly based on inflation rate

Duties and Responsibilities (include but not limited to the following)

• Accurately read and record meter readings for residential and commercial customers using manual or computerized meter reading systems.
• Inspects meters and connections for defect, damage and unauthorized connections. Reports irregularities to the supervisor.
• Reports hazardous and dangerous conditions of utility facilities to supervisor so they can be corrected or protected to eliminate the possibility of injury.
• Reports meter locations that are hazardous or difficult to read or maintain to supervisor so the condition can be remedied.
• Walking assigned routes reading water meters inside and outside of residential, commercial, industrial and public properties.
• Records abnormalities found while reading meters, i.e., dead meters, high/low consumption, damage, etc., so supervisor can review and determine necessary action.
• Perform all assigned work orders and provide completed work order to supervisor for input to appropriate software program.
• Activate and deactivates water service as needed at customer’s service location.
• Installs and removes water meters and radio transmitters, as required.
• Terminates service on delinquent accounts.
• Collects delinquent accounts in the field, when necessary.
• Performs investigations on assigned water meter complaints. Including assisting customers in locating cause for high water consumption.
• Test and repair meters in accordance with PSC requirements.
• Maintains accurate records of all work performed.
• Responsible to report mechanical issues with assigned equipment to the supervisor for corrective action.
• Responsible to maintain the cleanliness and appearance of the equipment and facilities under his control.
• Responds to emergency situations including those occurring after normal working hours.
• Performs, as may be necessary, other related duties and tasks which the employee is capable of performing.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of the geography, streets and business locations in Parkersburg and the surrounding environs.
• Knowledge of the operation and components of water meters utilized by the utility.
• Knowledge of the mechanics of repairing and testing water meters.
• Knowledge of installation and programming water meters and radio transmitters.
• Knowledge of relevant local, state and federal laws, regulations and guidelines pertaining to meter services.
• Knowledge of the practices, techniques, tools and equipment utilized in the daily operations of a meter services department in a potable water system.
• Knowledge of safety methods, precautions, procedures and regulations pertaining to all facets of meter and utility work.
• Ability to exercise independent judgement and initiative within established guidelines.
• Ability to use diplomacy, tact and firmness in dealing with the public.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing.
• Ability to operate a vehicle observing legal and defensive driving practices.
• Ability to adhere to all policies and procedures prescribed by the Board.
• Ability to recognize unusual or dangerous operating conditions and take rapid appropriate action.
• Ability to understand and carry out oral and written instructions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with department personnel, other departments, outside agencies and the public.
• Ability to use computers and related software applications.

Experience and Education

• Any combination of training, experience and education that could likely provide the required knowledge and abilities stated above, and the ability to perform the duties of the position would be qualifying.
• Must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Formal or informal education or training at a level which ensures the ability to read, write and perform mathematical computations and write correspondence and reports at a level necessary for successful job performance, and supplemental coursework to meet certification requirements.

Licenses and Certificates

• Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator’s license issued by the State of West Virginia or state of residence if other than West Virginia.
• Certification by the West Virginia Public Service Commission as a Water Meterman for the testing of water meters.

Working Conditions

• Routine shift will be from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm, Monday thru Friday, but shall be required to work overtime when needed.
• The work required for this position shall be conducted both indoors and outdoors regardless of weather conditions.

Physical Requirements

• The ability to lift 50 pounds, over 100 pounds, with assistance.
• The ability to move safely over uneven terrain.
• The ability to safely climb ladders and stairs multiple times daily.
• The ability to respond quickly to sounds.
• The ability to see and respond to dangerous situations.
• The ability to work in extreme weather.
• The ability to wear personnel protective equipment correctly, when required.

Direct Reports

• This position has no supervisory responsibilities.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $17.58 per hour

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Schedule:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Monday to Friday
• On call
• Overtime

License/Certification:

• Driver's License (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $19 - $21