How to Prepare for and Find Meter Reader Jobs

One of the better-paying jobs that requires little education is that of the meter reader. This job is ideal for those who enjoy working outdoors. However, some applicants should prepare for the exam that is sometimes required by local governments and utility companies. In addition, some minimal education is usually required to apply for meter-reader job openings.

Employers will almost always look for at least a high school education. Although the job of a meter reader is certainly not complex, you need to be willing to work in inclimate weather, depending on where you get a job. Although meter readers do not generally interact with the public, they may also occasionally encounter dogs or other potentially dangerous conditions. When interviewing for these jobs, make it clear that you are willing to incur some risk and enjoy working outdoors.

This occupation actually pays a decent salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were 40,160 meter readers with jobs in May of 2010. They had an average median salary of $34,820. California, Texas, Georgia, Florida, and New York had the most jobs for meter readers. Local governments hire more meter readers than any other employers, but electric and gas companies are big employers, as well. Organizations handling water, sewage, and similar services also hire for this occupation.

Many employers may require an exam. An example is the Pacific Gas and Electric Company. That utility company has some meter reader practice test questions on its website. For those with a high school education, this is pretty easy stuff. It involved mostly basic English and math problem solving, and reading some books in social studies or sociology may also be helpful for parts of this kind of test reading tables). You want to at least be familiar with the types of questions so that you are not surprised when you take the exam.

Always ask the specific employer to see a practice test or at least sample questions before you take a meter reader job exam. The tests are usually similar but may differ from employer to employer.

Resources:

Pacific Gas and Electric Company: Clerical/Meter Reader Test

Bureau of Labor Statistics: Facts on Meter Reader Jobs and Salary


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