Meter reader

What does a meter reader do? – tasks and work environment

A meter reader is responsible for collecting and recording data from various types of meters, such as electricity, water, and gas meters, at households and businesses. The work often involves visiting properties, reading off meter readings, and reporting these to energy companies or municipal organizations. Service orientation and accuracy are crucial, as correct data is fundamental for billing and operations. The work environment varies between indoor and outdoor work, and the workday may include many trips between different locations. A meter reader often works independently and needs to be flexible to handle different tasks and customer meetings.

Salary development over time

The salary for meter readers has shown steady and consistent growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 25,000 SEK per month, rising the following year to 25 800. In 2024, the current average salary is 26 600 per month, which represents an increase of approximately 6.4 % over three years. This positive trend reflects increased demand for the profession, partly due to the need for reliable data in the energy and water sectors, as well as technological changes in the industry. Salary increases have been somewhat higher than inflation, indicating some competition for labor, although the profession still lags slightly behind the average salary on the Swedish job market. Gender pay gaps are small, and regional variations are minimal but may occur depending on the employer and location.

Meter reader salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 26 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 25,500 SEK/month (female, private sector employee)
• Highest salary: 35,100 SEK/month (female, private sector worker, with less than 3 years post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 160 SEK/hour (average, hourly employee)
• Gender differences: Men 26 700 SEK/month, women 26 400 SEK/month (women earn 99 % of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Minor variations depending on employer and location

Education and qualifications

To work as a meter reader, usually no higher education is required, but a high school diploma is often a basic requirement. Employers value practical experience, technical understanding, and good service skills. Many receive on-the-job training and orientation, but relevant courses in energy, technology, and service are also available. A driver's license is often required, as the job involves traveling between different measurement points.

• High school education: Typically technical or practical-oriented programs
• On-the-job training: Workplace introduction and supervision
• Driver's license: Often a B license is required
• Technical understanding: Basic knowledge of measurement technology and IT systems is advantageous
• Customer service: Ability to interact professionally with customers

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for meter readers include company cars or mileage allowances, work clothes, wellness contributions, and sometimes bonuses linked to performance or efficiency. Some employers also offer further training and opportunities for internal career development. Pension schemes and collective insurance are standard in most employment agreements.

Competition and challenges

The competition for jobs as a meter reader is moderate, as the profession does not require extensive formal education but still demands accuracy and independence. A challenge is that the work can be monotonous and physically demanding, especially when working outdoors year-round. Digitalization and automation may gradually affect the need for manual readings, although the transition to smart meters is happening gradually. Managing diverse customer interactions and quickly adapting to different work environments are also important aspects of the job.

Tips for those who want to become a meter reader

To succeed as a meter reader, it is good to be precise and methodical, as the work requires accurate readings and reporting. Good customer service skills facilitate interactions with customers, especially when explaining meter results or handling questions. Flexibility and independence are important qualities, as the workday often involves travel to different locations and working alone. Being technically interested is also an advantage, as modern meters and digital systems are becoming more common in the profession. Good physical endurance helps during longer workdays and outdoor work. For those who are solution-oriented, there are opportunities to streamline work routines and contribute to improvements in the organization.

Key facts about meter readers

• Education level: High school diploma, often technical or practical focus
• Work environment: Independent work, both indoors and outdoors
• Demand: 481 job openings within the profession according to the latest survey
• Work form: Fieldwork with daily travel between different customer locations
• Technical knowledge: Basic IT and measurement technology skills are valuable

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a meter reader, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as supervisor, trainer, or technical specialist within measurement and energy management. Some choose to further their education in energy or property technology, which can lead to more qualified positions and higher salaries. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts indicate continued stable demand in the coming years, although digitalization is gradually changing work tasks. The profession is particularly attractive for those seeking stable employment with opportunities for internal development and specialization. As more energy companies and municipalities switch to smart meters, work tasks are expected to shift toward more technical roles.

Frequently asked questions about meter readers

• What does a meter reader earn?
  - The average salary is 26 600 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 160 SEK.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, men earn on average 26 700 SEK and women 26 400 SEK, which means women earn 99 % of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a meter reader?
  - High school diploma, preferably with a technical focus, along with internal training and often a B driver's license.
• What is the job market like for meter readers?
  - There is strong demand, with 481 job openings according to the latest data.
• What are the lowest and highest salaries for the profession?
  - The lowest salary is 25,500 SEK and the highest is 35,100 SEK per month.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Accuracy, customer service skills, flexibility, and technical interest are especially valuable.
• How does digitalization affect the profession?
  - Increased digitalization changes work tasks and may reduce the need for manual readings over time.