Meter reader job description

No formal trade qualification is required to work as a meter reader — it is an entry-level pathway with on-the-job training. Employers generally require a valid driver’s licence, working rights in Australia and the physical fitness to walk routes. Prior field, delivery or meter reading experience is advantageous but not essential.

Yes, a current and valid driver’s licence is typically required because meter readers travel between routes and properties throughout the day. Confirm the licence class needed for any company vehicle and check the candidate’s driving record where relevant to your business.

Mandatory requirements usually include a valid driver’s licence, working rights in Australia and physical fitness for walking routes. Preferred qualifications include previous field or meter reading experience and a current first aid certificate for lone work. Avoid over-qualifying entry-level positions, as it narrows your candidate pool unnecessarily.

Yes. Meter reading is an entry-level role and many businesses hire and train staff without prior experience. Focus on reliability, attention to detail, physical fitness and a clean driving record. Clear job descriptions help candidates understand the daily route work and self-select appropriately.

This depends on your workload. Casual meter readers offer flexibility for seasonal or variable read cycles but attract a 25% casual loading under the Gas Industry Award. Permanent part-time or full-time staff provide route consistency and stronger retention. Many businesses use a mix — permanent staff for core routes and casuals for peak periods.

Under the Gas Industry Award (MA000061), Saturday work is paid at 150% and Sunday at 200%, with public holidays at 250%. Afternoon shifts attract a 115% loading and night shifts 130%, while overtime is generally 150% for the first hours and 200% thereafter. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Under the Gas Industry Award, employees required to remain available for call outside ordinary hours may be entitled to an availability duty allowance of around $290.97 per week for FY2026/27. Confirm the current allowance and eligibility rules that apply to your business before including on-call expectations in the job description.

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type (casual, part-time or full-time), hourly rate, applicable award, reporting structure, main duties, service area and required qualifications such as a driver’s licence. For casuals, include the 25% casual loading. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Award and agreement rostering rules vary, so confirm the notice period that applies to your business. As a general practice, providing rosters at least 7 days in advance gives field staff visibility of their routes and shifts. Using rostering software helps ensure compliance and reduces last-minute changes.

Assign routes based on read cycles, geographic zones and each reader’s availability, balancing daily targets with realistic travel time. Use rostering tools to track hours, monitor targets and adjust route allocations when staff are absent. This keeps read cycles on schedule and avoids overloading individual readers.

Break entitlements are set by the applicable award or agreement and generally include a meal break for shifts beyond a set length. Because meter readers work independently in the field, set clear break policies and ensure staff record their time accurately. Use time and attendance tools to support compliance.

Collect availability preferences during onboarding and update them regularly. Use HR software and rostering tools to track when each reader can work and any licence or vehicle constraints. Set clear policies about minimum availability and how to request changes, which simplifies route planning and reduces gaps.