METER TECHNICIAN

Under general supervision, the purpose of the position is to perform responsible meter services work.  Employees in this classification perform at entry level and are responsible for reading meters, recording consumption, as well as installing, maintaining, and repairing meters and radio transmitters.  Objective is to support correct and timely billing of metered services by accurately and efficiently recording meter readings along a clearly designated work route. Although the employee works independently and is often physically removed from supervision, duties are performed within the framework of pre-established policies and procedures. 

The list of essential functions, as outlined herein, is intended to be representative of the tasks performed within this classification. It is not necessarily descriptive of any one position in the class. The omission of an essential function does not preclude management from assigning duties not listed herein if such functions are a logical assignment to the position.

• Field verifies meter information (size, type, location, etc.), reads and rereads meters to ensure accurate billing, exchanges and trouble-shoots meters of various types and sizes. Replaces old technology meters with new electronic meters and programs them for radio reading.
• Installs, programs and troubleshoots meter transmitters for the radio meter reading system and removes information from data logger and provides to customer service for customer inquiries and usage disputes. Captures GPS data for new meter installation to log locations of meters for radio meter reading.
• Repairs meters and registers, replaces worn out parts, repairs leaks, tests meters for accuracy, reviews verification readings, repairs meter wiring damage and meter tampering. 
• Operates handheld data collection devices, auto reading guns, Trimble programming devices and command links plus GPS units. 
• Repairs and replaces broken meter pits, exchanges smaller for larger meter pits and realigns meter pits for proper access to meter and meter equipment.
• Assists Utility Systems technicians with retrofitting of commercial meters and repairs. 
• Cleans meter boxes and clears surrounding areas of vegetation and overgrowth. 
• Operates utility vehicles; cleans and maintains assigned vehicles, tools and equipment.
• May assist utility crews with leaks and other water distribution work.
• Performs repairs and replaces broken meter pits, exchanges smaller for larger meter pits and realigns meter pits for proper access to meter and meter equipment.
• Function in severe weather conditions and have the ability to respond to hazardous/risky situations and perform mitigation efforts in emergencies.
• Effectively utilize hand tools and assemble/disassemble small mechanical components.
• Proficient in operating computers, various handheld electronic devices, and able to perform basic mathematical calculations.
• Performs related duties as directed.

High School Diploma or GED required, supplemented by one (1) year of experience in maintenance, construction, meters, or utilities, prior experience in a utility industry is preferred. An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience will be considered.
Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver's License.

• Ability to understand and follow written and oral instructions.

• Knowledge of the geography and street locations of the city. Knowledge of the mechanism and repair of meters.  
• Ability to read and write English.  
• Ability to perform routine mathematical computations and tabulations accurately and efficiently.
• Ability to clearly communicate information both verbally and in writing.
• Skill in the principles and techniques of customer service.
• Ability to perform basic meter repairs. 
• Ability to interpret a variety of instructions in written, oral, diagram or schedule form.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with supervisors and the general public.

• While performing the essential functions of this job, the incumbent is regularly required to lift, move or carry objects up to 50 pounds; ascend or descend ladders, stairs, scaffolding, ramps, poles; utilize feet and legs or hands and arms; maintain body equilibrium to prevent falling when walking, standing, crouching, or navigating narrow, slippery, or erratically moving surfaces; bend body downward and forward by bending spine and legs; move about on hands and knees or hands and feet; use hands to finger, handle or feel objects; and to reach with hands and arms.

• While performing the essential functions of this job the employee is occasionally required to push and/or pull over 100 pounds.
• While performing the essential functions of this position the employee is frequently exposed to fumes or airborne particles, excessive noise, vehicles, dampness/humidity, biting insects and unrestrained animals. While performing the essential functions of this job, the incumbent is regularly exposed to possible bodily injury from electrical shock; falling from exposed places; and moving mechanical parts of equipment, tools, and machinery.