Hiring Meter Readers, Utilities
Employers across the 60 metro areas we have BLS OEWS wage data for pay meter readers, utilities a median of $33,800 to $100,480 a year (BLS OEWS, May 2025). A search through recruitlocalpros runs Tier I to Tier VI, $6,240 to $54,340, set by seniority, never by location or salary. Our vetted recruiting partner handles sourcing, screening and placement end to end.
What do meter readers, utilities do?
- Read electric, gas, water, or steam consumption meters and enter data in route books or hand-held computers.
- Upload into office computers all information collected on hand-held computers during meter rounds, or return route books or hand-held computers to business offices so that data can be compiled.
- Walk or drive vehicles along established routes to take readings of meter dials.
- Inspect meters for unauthorized connections, defects, and damage, such as broken seals.
- Verify readings in cases where consumption appears to be abnormal, and record possible reasons for fluctuations.
- Report to service departments any problems, such as meter irregularities, damaged equipment, or impediments to meter access, including dogs.
Core tasks, O*NET OnLine, 43-5041.00.
What does it take to become one?
These occupations usually require a high school diploma.
Some previous work-related skill, knowledge, or experience is usually needed. For example, a teller would benefit from experience working directly with the public.
Employees in these occupations need anywhere from a few months to one year of working with experienced employees. A recognized apprenticeship program may be associated with these occupations.
O*NET Job Zone 2, SVP (4.0 to < 6.0). O*NET OnLine.
Employers commonly list experience with Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Office software, Microsoft Access, Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft PowerPoint, Microsoft Windows for this role.
What do meter readers, utilities get paid?
BLS OEWS, May 2025 publishes a wage for meter readers, utilities in 60 of the metro areas in this build. The median ranges from $33,800 to $100,480 a year depending on the metro, with a midpoint of $48,740. This is what employers pay, place of work, not a single national figure and not what any one person takes home.
BLS OEWS, BLS OEWS, May 2025, SOC 43-5041.
What does hiring one cost?
The same as any role: tier, not location or salary, sets the fee. Across all six tiers the published range is $6,240 to $54,340 per search. For scale, the highest published median for meter readers, utilities in this build is $100,480. A contingency firm hiring at that level would bill roughly $20,096 to $30,144 on the first year salary alone, 20 to 30%.
Frequently asked
- How fast can a meter readers, utilities search fill?
- 23 to 35 days, 2 to 3x faster than a typical contingency search, per the recruiting provider's published figures.
- What if the hire does not work out?
- A 45-day replacement guarantee, at 50% off a repeat search for the same role.
Price a meter readers, utilities search
Eight questions about the role. Your tier range appears on screen, with the contingency comparison if you are paying one now.