Salary: $19.36 - $21.52 Hourly
Location : Kalamazoo, MI
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 25-00047
Department: Public Services Stockbridge
Division: Public Services-Water Distribution
Opening Date: 03/19/2025
Closing Date: 4/1/2025 11:59 PM Eastern

Description/Distinguishing Features

The employee in this class is responsible for the prompt and accurate reading and repair of water meters on a system-wide basis.

Performs specialized work involving the reading, removal, installation, inspection, maintenance, repair and testing of commercial and residential water meters as well as related work as required under the general supervision of the Water Distribution Supervisor.
Examples of Duties

Reads water meters as required; investigates and solves customer complaints; sets and removes meters; Works on meter vaults and boxes; keeps records and prepares reports. While performing the duties of this job, the employee regularly works in a vehicle and outside weather conditions. The employee is frequently exposed to cold, windy, wet and/or humid conditions.

Essential Qualifications

• Thorough knowledge of water meter reading practices. Good knowledge of the street system of Kalamazoo City and service area.
• Collects readings from water meters utilizing the City's most current reading technology or by walking or driving the established routes.
• Maintains and records readings on handheld reading equipment or PC tablet. Identifies and reports irregularities, defects, or damages to meters and follows-up with utility meter reading exception lists and resolves any exceptions as quickly as possible; prepares work requests or work orders as necessary. Completes and tracks service requests or work orders related to water meters, meter boxes, lids and meter pits, or other water related issues as assigned. Keeps all meters clear of debris, grass brush or any obstructions.
• Performs disconnections and reconnections of water meters for collections purposes.
• Updates and maintains accurate records on the locations of water service meters and fire hydrants.
• Uses proper safety equipment and personal protective equipment, (PPE) as required.
• Understands and properly uses the current meter reading software to collect and report meter readings and helps to keep equipment up-to-date and fully operational.
• Responds to all customer billing service requests in a timely manner.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Acceptable Training and Experience

Graduation from high school or equivalent and six (6) months of related experience or any equivalent combination of education and experience.

Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license issued by the State of Michigan.
The City of Kalamazoo is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive organization where different perspectives and experiences are welcomed and encouraged. Studies have shown that women and people of color, are less likely to apply for jobs unless they meet all of the qualifications listed. The City of Kalamazoo is most interested in finding the best candidate for the job, and that candidate may be one from a less traditional background. If you have transferable experience, please tell us about it. This approach will give each current and potential employee the opportunity to learn, grow and contribute to the City of Kalamazoo.
The City of Kalamazoo offers competitive benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance, flexible spending accounts, group life insurance, long and short-term disability, paid time off, a defined benefits pension plan, a 457 deferred compensation plan, and a retirement health care savings plan (HCSP). Benefits vary based on the bargaining unit of a position.

The City of Kalamazoo also operates a convenient health clinic that is open to employees, retirees, and their families and provides routine medical services and prescriptions.

For a summary of City of Kalamazoo benefits in AFSCME positions, please visit our website:

Please note: These benefits are subject to change.
01

Do you possess at least a high school diploma or GED?

• Yes
• No

02

Are you skilled in the use of computers or tablets? If so explain.
03

Do you have a valid Michigan Driver's License?

• Yes
• No

04

Do you have good customer service experience? Explain.
Required Question