Temporary Meter Reader

Seattle City Light, a department of the City of Seattle, is one of the nation's largest municipally owned utilities in terms of the number of customers served. Over the years we have worked very hard to keep Seattle's electricity affordable, reliable, and environmentally sound. Today, City Light is a recognized national leader in energy efficiency and environmental stewardship.

The Meter Reader position requires one to have knowledge of local geography and street locations, and the methods, equipment and materials used in meter reading. Incumbents must be able to read and record data rapidly and accurately, make simple calculations, and deal courteously and effectively with the general public. Although individuals generally work independently in the field, procedures for doing the work have been established and instructions are provided. This position will be reported to the Meter Reading Manager.

This is a temporary position that ends in May 2027.

• Locates and reads residential and commercial utility meters on an assigned route, either by driving or walking to each site using city vehicle.
• Utilizes an access key or contacts the designated individual to obtain the necessary access key.
• Reports any discrepancies such as continued usage at closed accounts, meter tampering, or unauthorized reconnection.
• Sequences new meters and instructions into routes and re-sequences routes when necessary; updates or originates access information on reading and instruction records.
• Monitors meter operation to ensure meters are functioning properly, as needed.
• Receives and reports complaints from customers concerning utility consumption readings, costs or consumption concerns.
• Provide training and guidance to new meter readers on route procedures.
• Reads residential or commercial meters, including scheduled production routes and non- communicating Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) meters, ensuring timely and accurate data collection.
• Performs other related duties of similar nature as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications

No specific type or amount of education or experience is required.

Work Environment/Physical Demands

• Required to stand, walk, crawl, climb, or bend for extended periods of time.
• Required to work outdoors in all types of weather, and in all kinds of terrain.
• Required to work in potentially hazardous environments, such as near high voltage equipment, construction areas, dark basements or industrial compounds.
• Occasionally exposed to dog attacks, abusive customers or insects.

License, Certification and Other Requirements

Current State of Washington driver's license or evidence of equivalent mobility. You must hold a current valid state issued driver's license from any US state to be verified prior to start date. Out of state license holders will be required to obtain a WA state license within 30 days of hire.

Desired Qualifications - You will be successful if you have the following experience, skills, and abilities:

• Prior experience in meter reading, utility work, or field service.
• Familiarity with handheld meter reading devices and/or Automated Meter Infrastructure (AMI) systems.
• Demonstrated ability to interact professionally and respectfully with customers and the public.
• Comfortable working independently, managing time efficiently, and making sound decisions in the field with minimal supervision.

Additional Information:

Employment Duration - This is a fully benefited full time position with a predetermined end date- May 2027. Extensions will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Please note this job advertisement is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

The full salary range for this position is $31.71 to $37.36 per hour.

Application Process

Please submit the following with your online application:

• A cover letter in which you clearly describe how your knowledge, experience, skills, and abilities prepare you for the job responsibilities and qualifications outlined in the job announcement
• A current resume of your educational and professional work experience.

Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Who May Apply: This position is open to all candidates that meet the qualifications. Seattle City Light values diverse perspectives and life experiences. Applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, creed, national origin, ancestry, sex, marital status, disability, religious or political affiliation, age, sexual orientation, or gender identity. Seattle City Light encourages people of all backgrounds to apply, including people of color, immigrants, refugees, women, LGBTQIA+, people with disabilities, veterans, and those with diverse life experiences.

Job offers are contingent on the verification of credentials and other information required by the employment process, including the completion of a background check. The background check will involve a criminal history check, which includes conviction and arrest records in compliance with the Seattle's Fair Chance Employment Ordinance, SMC 14.17and the City of Seattle Personnel Rule 10.3 (Download PDF reader). A driving history review may be conducted in compliance with SMC Applicants will be provided an opportunity to explain or correct background information.

The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday, and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents. More information about employee benefits is available on the City's website at:

Want to know more about Seattle City Light? Check out our web page:

The City of Seattle offers a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, holiday and sick leave as well as medical, dental, vision, life and long-term disability insurance for employees and their dependents.