The Route Specialist is responsible for organizing meter reading routes to ensure the meter reading schedule is completed in an efficient manner. Plan, schedule and verify the completion of meter reading assignments. Assist the Supervisor with re-cycles and re-sequencing of routes. Safely drive and obtain meter reading data utilizing the mobile data collector unit. Operate computerized and handheld units. Accurately obtain manual meter readings from large commercial and residential meter readings when necessary. Perform Encoder Receiver Transmitter (ERT) meter maintenance, maintain and operate Company vehicle in accordance with Company safety standards and procedures and obey all traffic laws. Complete all work with an emphasis towards preventing accidents and injuries. May be required to respond to emergencies and implement Incident Command System (ICS).

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

This position must have a minimum of two years of relevant work experience.

This position must possess advanced basic computer skills including data input, math skills (add, subtract, multiply and divide), competent reading skills, proficient writing and verbal communication skills, basic mechanical knowledge and have the ability to recognize and trouble shoot minor problems. This position must also have the ability to operate Company vehicles in compliance with state and local laws and Company policies and procedures and work and drive in all weather conditions. Must have extensive knowledge of automated meter reading (AMR) equipment, software and procedures and proficient knowledge of the meter reading department activities, Company policies and procedures and knowledge of service territory.

This position must have the ability to work independently with minimal supervision and be able to prioritize workload, multi-task, communicate effectively with internal and external customers, in addition to outside agencies.

Note: Employees must pass all written tests and/or hands-on training, or simulations as required for this job classification; this includes all the covered task modules for Operator Qualification. Employees must qualify in all covered tasks in their classification and satisfy all applicable requirements under State and Federal law.

TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS

• Possess a thorough working knowledge of the automated meter reading equipment and software
• Work with the computer routing software, mobile unit and programming handheld
• Complete re-cycles of routes
• Assist with sequencing and organizing new accounts in the computerized routing software
• Monitor and assist with assigning and loading AMR routes
• Assist Supervisor in assuring all AMR routes are complete in the meter reading system and merge for billing
• Assist the supervisor to plan, schedule and verify the completion of meter reading assignments
• Organize meter reading routes to optimize efficiency
• Assign cycle and route information for all new accounts in the work management computer system
• Enter and maintain gate code information in the automated routing system
• Act as a technical resource in assisting users to resolve problems with meter reading equipment
• Review, process and analyze various reports related to the Meter Reading department according to Company policies and procedures
• Assist Supervisor with coordinating and conducting monthly meter reading training and training of new employees and contractors
• Assist with energy diversion investigations
• Safely obtain meter reading data utilizing the mobile data collector vehicle and equipment in accordance with Company policies and procedures
• When necessary, obtain accurate manual meter reads, update instructions and report any abnormal operating conditions in the field in accordance with Company policies and procedures
• Perform encoder receiver transmitter (ERT) meter maintenance
• Assist in emergency response and preparation of emergency relight cards.
• May perform meter turn offs
• Accurately and thoroughly complete all documentation
• Report accidents or property damage and/or loss to management immediately
• Perform duties in a manner that is in compliance with Company, local, state and federal regulations, safety and emergency practices and procedures
• Perform all duties in a safe and courteous manner that promotes both good internal and external customer relations
• Perform other duties as assigned
• Regular and predictable attendance is a condition of employment and is an essential function of the job

This position is regulated by the Department of Transportation (DOT) under Title 49 CFR Part 382 and Part 40. Any applicant/employee who performs a DOT covered function or is licensed and would operate a commercial vehicle for the Company will be subject to drug and alcohol testing under the Company’s DOT drug and alcohol testing programs. Any employment, transfer, or promotion offer made for this position is contingent upon taking and passing a drug test prior to the commencement of the new role. If an applicant/employee fails the drug test, any offer of employment, transfer, or promotion will be revoked.

SALARY DETAILS

$26.45- $39.53

At Southwest Gas, attracting the best talent is key to our strategy and success as a company. We use flexibility to develop competitive compensation offers to ensure we are able to hire the best candidates. The quoted salary range represents the minimum and maximum of the pay range for the position. It is provided as a good faith estimate as to what our ideal candidates are likely to expect, as we tailor our offers within the range based on the selected candidate's experience, industry knowledge, location, technical and communication skills and other factors that may prove relevant during the interview and selection process.