Meter readers walk or drive trucks over established routes and take readings of meter dials.

Meter readers read electric, gas, steam, and water meter dials. They record the volume customers use. Meter readers may turn metered services on or off.

Sometimes meter readers find readings are too high or too low. They inspect meters to make sure they are functioning properly and do not have unauthorized connections. When they find problems with meters, meter readers fill out forms so the service department will fix them.

Meter readers walk or drive around their routes. They may answer customer questions and update information as needed.

New meters in many cities are computerized. Meter readers scan these meters and a portable computer records the amount used.