NJ Civil Service Navigator

WATER METER READER

Bilingual In Spanish And English

Code: 07041 Local Competitive

New Jersey treats Water Meter Reader as a competitive-class job, so the gate is an examination and the ranked list it produces rather than a direct offer.

How to apply

  • Exam

    This is an application to sit an exam and be placed on an eligible list for this title, not an application for a specific job. A $35 application fee applies to Non-Public-Safety announcements issued on or after 2026-02-01. There may be no current vacancy behind it, and the list it produces may not be certified for months or years.

  • Exam

    Open to permanent employees in the competitive division who hold a qualifying lower title in the same unit. A $35 application fee applies to Non-Public-Safety announcements issued on or after 2026-02-01. Like the open competitive exam, this places you on a list; it is not itself a job offer.

Official job specification

The text below is the official specification published by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission. The plain-language summary and analysis above are derived from it by NJ Civil Service Navigator.

Definition

Under direction travels from building to building within the municipality in accord with a predetermined schedule and reads water meters; does related work as required.

Examples of work

  • Reads water meters.
  • Records readings on provided forms to serve as a basis for measuring water consumption.
  • Inspects water meters to see whether the seal is intact or meter is damaged, and notes significant observations on forms for action by servicing unit.
  • If there are water leaks notifies the proper persons.
  • Makes special readings when complaints are received regarding abnormal water consumption and records reasons for fluctuations.
  • Answers inquiries and gives information concerning water meter readings, the manner of making computations for water consumption, and water distribution system.
  • Keeps legible and accurate records.
  • Informs business office of meter readings for billing purposes.
  • May turn off water service for nonpayment of charges or may turn service on for new occupants of premises.
  • Will be required to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and computerized information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.

License

Appointees will be required to possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey only if the operation of a vehicle, rather thanemployee mobility, is necessary to perform the essential duties of the position.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

  • Knowledge of proper methods of reading water meters.
  • Knowledge of methods of computing water consumption.
  • Knowledge of basic principles underlying the operation of water meters commonly used.
  • Knowledge of making accurate recordings which are to be used in basis for making charge computations.
  • Ability to understand, remember, and carry out oral and written directions.
  • Ability to learn quickly from oral and written explanations and from demonstrations.
  • Ability to explain the basic operation of water meters when requested by consumers.
  • Ability to receive complaints from water consumers and take appropriate action.
  • Ability to inspect water meters at places of installation and note significant facts that may lead to malfunctioning meters.
  • Ability to keep essential records and files.
  • Ability to learn to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.
  • Ability to read, write, speak, understand, or communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication.
  • Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligibleas long as they can perform the essential functions of the job after reasonable accommodation is made to their known limitations. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible. >

Note

The definition and examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A particular position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed.

<b>NOTE: Appointments may be made to positions requiring bilingual skills.</b>

<b> - Bilingual in Spanish and English</b> SPECIAL SKILL Applicants must be able to read, write, speak, understand, or communicate in Spanish and English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position.