Under supervision, performs basic meter reading and customer service functions while developing higher-level water customer service skills. Walks throughout the City on assigned route to read, record and report residential and commercial water meter readings, using a hand-held computer. Performs a variety of customer service fieldwork for water customers, including turns services on and off, performs minor water meter maintenance, and responds to inquiries from customers.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Locates and reads all sizes and types of residential and commercial water meters, and records readings using handheld computer devices.
• Identifies and records any condition or malfunction of water meters that require repair work.
• Re-checks meter readings as instructed.
• Performs routine maintenance such as, cleaning out flooded and buried meters, trimming shrubs and removing other obstructions from meters, and replacing broken water box lids and faulty water meters.
• Checks water meter connections for leaks and replaces washers on meter connections as needed.
• Turns water services off and on according to work orders, including for delinquent customers; and performs readings for final billings.
• Responds to general questions from customers while in the field.
• Notifies customers of non-payment and places cut-off notices on doors.
• Must be punctual and timely in meeting all job performance requirements, including but not limited to, attendance and tardiness standards and work deadlines.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:

• Knowledge of geography and street locations of the City and layout of meter locations
• Knowledge of water billing practices
• Ability to acquire knowledge of methods, materials, and techniques used in repairing or replacing water meters, meter boxes, stops and connections
• Ability to acquire skill in using tools and equipment used in repairing or replacing water meters, stops, and connections
• Ability to operate handheld devices and read and record data rapidly and accurately
• Ability to make simple arithmetic calculations
• Ability to work courteously and effectively with co-workers and the general public and to communicate one-to-one
• Ability to work in a variety of weather conditions with exposure to the elements
• Ability to travel across rough, uneven or slippery surfaces to check meters
• Ability to work independently and to understand and carry out written and oral instructions
• Ability to walk for extended periods of time and considerable distances and possess other physical ability necessary to perform essential job duties

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
High School or GED and some computer operation experience helpful; or any combination of education, training, and experience providing the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform essential job functions.

WORKING CONDITIONS:
Employee is regularly required to stand, stoop, walk and use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools, or controls. Work involves moving heavy objects (50 lbs. or more) short distances. Required to work outdoors exposed to inclement weather conditions and occupational hazards such as heat, cold, dampness, fumes, automobile traffic and possible attacks from animals, insects, and reptiles.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:
Must possess a valid Driver's License.