A Day in the life of a Calisen Meter Reader

Alicia Wright is a meter reader based in the North West. She joined Calisen earlier this year, and this is her first role in the energy sector. We caught up with Alicia to find out what she enjoys most about her role.

 

 

What do you like most about your role? 

Definitely the flexibility – I love having the freedom to start earlier or later if I want to. 

 

I work eight hours a day between Monday and Friday; in the summer, I can do this anytime between 8am and 8pm, and in the winter it’s anything between 8am and 6pm. There’s also the option to work overtime on Saturdays if I want some extra hours. 

 

It’s so helpful having choice with my hours. If I need to, I can break up the day – for example, starting at 8am, stopping at 12pm if I have an appointment or an errand to run, and starting again when I want to. 

 

 

What three words best describe your role? 

‘Flexible’ – that’s a huge part of it, ‘exciting’… and ‘outdoors’. 

 

It’s exciting because you’re always on the go and never in one place for long. Every day you visit different customers in different locations, and I really enjoy that variety. 

 

And I love being out and about and not confined to a desk for eight hours a day. It’s a mix of driving, walking and working, and I like that dynamism. We have two or three meetings a year where we go into the office together, which is a nice change of pace and an important chance to catch up and reflect as a team – but I’d rather be out in the fresh air, especially on a lovely, sunny day! 

 

 

What’s good about working for Calisen? 

Lots of things. 

 

What appealed most was the freedom to manage my own time and being trusted to get the job done; it’s a very trusting company. Once you’re trained, you’re able to get on with the job alone, knowing that support is available anytime you need it. 

 

The training program was great – all very quick and easy. I had six days of field-based training, which meant shadowing a fellow reader and learning the ropes. Like any new job it felt daunting at first, with so many types of meter and so many different buttons! But I was well looked after and picked things up quickly. I’d never looked at a meter before and knew nothing about how they work, but at the end of the six days I was more than comfortable. 

 

And lastly, the people – every colleague I’ve met or trained with has been friendly and supportive, which is a real plus. I enjoy seeing my colleagues in person whenever I get the chance. 

 

 

What’s the most important thing about your role? 

Getting the most accurate reads for our customers is crucial to make sure they’re being billed correctly. It feels like I’m doing right by the customer; I’m trusted to go into their home and collect this data, and when I’m greeting them or explaining how the meters work, I’m representing the company’s brand and values. 

 

Some of our customers – for instance, older people who live alone – aren’t able to easily read their meters, so it really feels like we’re providing a service in supporting them.  

 

 

What does a job well done look like? 

It’s nice to start and end with a smile, and for the most part it’s a simple case of getting in, getting both meter reads and getting out – that’s the aim with every visit!  

 

But every home is different and so is every customer, so sometimes you’ll be asked questions around how the meter works and our recommended practice. I usually find customers are very enthusiastic to learn more – especially if it helps them to become a bit greener and to save a few pounds! 

 

 

And lastly, what would you say to others who are considering a meter reader role? 

 

If you enjoy being outdoors, enjoy being busy and constantly having something to do, then you should definitely apply. And if you enjoy flexibility at work, this is the job for you! 

 

 

What does a meter reader do?

 

Our meter readers visit residential and commercial properties to inspect their gas and electric meters, ensuring they're fit for purpose and that the readings are accurate in line with usage charges.

 

On arrival, the meter reader will greet the property owner and head towards the meter; they must ensure the serial number of each meter matches the one on their handheld device, confirming that the meter they're working with is the one identified on the job they've been assigned. 

 

They'll then take the meter reading and record the update on their device, taking time to liaise with the resident on any queries or concerns they have on how to manage the meter and their energy use correctly and safely.

 

Ready to become a valued member of the Calisen family and contribute to creating a smarter, more energy-efficient Britain? Discover more about our exciting opportunities on our Calisen Group careers page today!