Water Operator I - Meters

JOB SUMMARY

Performs a variety of technical and field duties within the Public Works Department for the Town of Little Elm, primarily related to the installation, maintenance, and reading of water meters. Responsibilities include collecting meter readings using automated and manual systems, transferring and validating data through electronic devices, and supporting the Utility Billing Division by completing work orders such as re-reads, diagnostics, and service-related requests. The position is also responsible for installing, repairing, and replacing water meters, meter boxes, and associated electronic components as needed. Work involves ensuring accurate monthly meter readings, maintaining system functionality, and contributing to efficient and reliable utility billing operations. The candidate must be highly motivated and strive for success by demonstrating Little Elm’s Core Values of Integrity, Customer Service, Efficiency, and Innovation.

 

EDUCATION/TRAINING/EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or GED; with six (6) months of previous experience that demonstrates ability to fulfill the physical requirements of the essential functions; or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience.

 

LICENSES OR CERTIFICATES

1. Valid Texas Driver’s License
2. Requires ability to acquire grade “D” water certification from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality within 12 months (1 year) of hire date.
3. Work Zone Safety Certification within 12 months (1 year) of hire date.

 

LANGUAGE SKILLS

1. Ability to read, write, and speak English fluently. 
2. Good written and verbal communication skills are essential.
3. Ability to respond to common inquiries or complaints from customers, regulatory agencies or authorities, or members of the local business community.

 

OTHER SKILLS & ABILITIES

1. Demonstrates strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple assignments, and consistently meet established deadlines.
2. Self-motivated and capable of working independently with minimal supervision, while exercising sound judgment within established policies, procedures, and standards.
3. Communicates effectively both verbally and in writing with supervisors, coworkers, residents, and vendors; able to convey technical information clearly and professionally.
4. Uses tact, diplomacy, and professionalism when interacting with the public and internal staff; maintains positive and productive working relationships.
5. Works effectively in a team-oriented environment and demonstrates a willingness to support departmental goals and assist coworkers as needed.
6. Proficient in the use of computers and standard office software, including Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel), as well as other job-related applications and systems.
7. Skilled in coordinating and managing multiple projects or assignments simultaneously, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and timely completion.
8. Ability to compile, review, and analyze data and information, including comparing, counting, differentiating, measuring, and verifying against established standards or procedures.
9. Capable of interpreting and utilizing a wide variety of reference materials, including work orders, technical manuals, installation procedures, and regulatory guidelines.
10. Demonstrates basic mathematical proficiency, including the ability to perform calculations involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, decimals, percentages, and basic algebra.
11. Ability to understand and follow instructions provided in written, verbal, or diagrammatic form, and apply them to semi-routine tasks with some independent decision-making.
12. Exercises sound judgment in performing repetitive or process-driven tasks, ensuring adherence to established procedures while maintaining accuracy and efficiency.
13. Proficient in the operation of standard office equipment and communication tools, including radios, computers, telephones, calculators, copiers, and similar devices.
14. Ability to operate tools, equipment, and machinery requiring coordination and precision, including making necessary adjustments during operation.
15. Capable of exchanging information to obtain, clarify, or verify details necessary to complete work assignments effectively.
16. Able to perform work under pressure, manage competing priorities, and meet short deadlines; willing to work overtime, on-call shifts, and flexible hours as required.
17. Demonstrates the ability to contribute to the development and implementation of division goals, objectives, and operational procedures.

 

REASONING ABILITY

1. Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished by management in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form.
2. Must have the ability to comprehend policies, procedures, regulations, organizational structures, etc. verbally, written in a short timeframe.

 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described herein are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to operate various machines, drive vehicles and/or equipment; and reach with hands and arms.  The employee frequently is required to talk and hear.  The employee is occasionally required to stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to (80) eighty pounds.  Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and ability to adjust focus.

 

WORK ENVIRONMENT              

The work environmental characteristics described herein are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Outdoor environment; exposure to conditions of construction and Public Works project sites including loud noises, dust, heavy vehicles and equipment; exposure to inclement weather; exposure to traffic and other hazards while conducting field inspections; exposure to moving vehicles and equipment, slippery surfaces, and other related conditions.

 

Requirements

This job description is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties and skills required. City management has exclusive rights to alter this job description at any time without notice. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments.

 

 ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS 

1. Install, replace, and upgrade water meters for new and existing service connections in accordance with Town standards and specifications.
2. Perform routine and special water meter readings using both manual methods and automated meter reading (AMR/AMI) systems; ensure accuracy and completeness of all readings.
3. Operate, maintain, and troubleshoot meter reading systems, including radio endpoints, data collectors, communication towers, and associated software platforms.
4. Utilize and maintain all assigned tools, equipment, and Town infrastructure in a safe and effective manner, report malfunctions or maintenance needs promptly.
5. Accurately document all meter-related activities, including installations, change-outs, repairs, and inspections, and update customer account records within the Financial Management System.
6. Maintain and manage meter inventory, including tracking stock levels, forecasting needs, and ensuring adequate supply to support operations.
7. Oversee storeroom organization for meters, parts, and related materials; receive, inspect, and stock incoming shipments, and coordinate warranty returns and replacements as needed.
8. Maintain, update, and ensure proper functionality of all meter reading equipment, including laptops, handheld devices, software applications, and communication hardware.
9. Coordinate with meter manufacturers, software vendors, and the Town’s Financial Management System support to diagnose and resolve issues related to meters, reading equipment, and data integration.
10. Execute all tasks associated with the monthly billing cycle, including meter reading, re-reads, service orders, disconnects, and reconnections, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with established deadlines.
11. Download, validate, and upload meter reading data into the Financial Management System; verify data integrity to ensure accurate customer billing.
12. Communicate effectively with customers, supervisors, and other departments regarding meter readings, billing concerns, and service issues; investigate and resolve customer inquiries in a professional manner.
13. Generate, review, and analyze routine and ad hoc reports related to meter performance, consumption trends, and system anomalies; identify and report discrepancies.
14. Collaborate with supervisors and field crews to ensure accurate and timely execution of service disconnections, restorations, and other field operations.
15. Demonstrate the ability to plan, prioritize, and manage workload effectively; meet strict deadlines while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
16. Establish and maintain positive and professional working relationships with supervisors, coworkers, and other Town personnel.
17. Participate in an on-call rotation as required; respond to after-hours service requests, emergencies, and work orders, including nights, weekends, and holidays.