Meter Reader

Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is seeking experienced workers for the Customer Billing Division's Meter Reading Work Group. This position is responsible for collecting reads and facilitating accurate billing for SPU's 200,000+ accounts. This position reports to a Meter Reader Supervisor.

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Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) is a Community Centered Utility whose mission is to foster healthy people, environment, and economy by partnering with our community to equitably manage water and waste resources for today and future generations. We deliver high quality, vital services, across four major lines of business: providing water, solid waste, drainage and wastewater services for Seattle residents and businesses.

In addition, SPU provides drinking water for 1.5 million regional customers in Seattle and other municipalities. Our customers depend on us to deliver high quality, reliable, and cost‑conscious utility services and to achieve the highest benefits possible for every investment we make.

For more information about Seattle Public Utilities (SPU), please visit:

• SPU Website
• SPU Workplace Expectations (Download PDF reader)
• Strategic Business Plan

SPU commits to Our City Values and Race and Social Justice as core principles that guide our work. We actively take steps to dismantle systemic racism and increase service equity. We value diverse life experiences and strive to create a workplace that is welcoming to all. We take steps to be inclusive and equitable in our recruiting, hiring, and promotional opportunities.

We know work isn’t only about what you do, it’s also about who you work for and with! SPU provides a fun and family‑friendly work environment that supports a work life balance, including:

• Family‑friendly and multicultural work environment
• Generous benefits package
• Free public transportation options
• City pension plan with employer/employee contributions
• Growth potential and advancement opportunities

• Accurate and Timely Meter Reads
  • Ensure daily completion of assigned residential and commercial meter reading routes to support accurate and timely utility billing for SPU’s 180,000+ customer accounts.
• Customer Trust and Service Integrity
  • Serve as a frontline ambassador by identifying and reporting issues such as leaks, access problems, or meter defects, while providing clear communication to customers when necessary.
• Operational Safety and Efficiency
  • Maintain route efficiency, ensure safe access to meter enclosures, report unsafe conditions, and contribute to the effective functioning of SPU’s meter reading operations.

• Based on the assigned route, drive a city‑issued or personal vehicle to and from locations across various traffic and weather conditions to collect meter reads.
• Locate, read, and record water meter readings for both residential and commercial accounts using a handheld electronic device.
• Notify customers of covered meters or vehicles obstructing access and request removal to complete reads.
• Leave notices or speak directly with customers to inform them of potential leaks on their property.
• Note and report meters that are unreadable and meter boxes with safety or access issues.
• Perform minor maintenance on meter boxes, including clearing obstructions and reseating lids to ensure safe and proper access.
• Report defective, leaking, or tampered meters promptly for follow‑up.
• Conduct follow‑up readings to verify consumption or finalize closing bills.
• Assist in training new meter readers, including route familiarization, equipment uses, and proper documentation.
• Ability to present a positive image as representative of City.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with the public and fellow employees.

• Route Sequencing & Optimization
  • Sequence new meters and update routing instructions; resequencing existing routes as needed to maintain reading efficiency and accuracy.
• Field Data Integrity & Reporting
  • Ensure meter reading data is accurate and properly documented to avoid…