Smart Meter Installer
Job Description:Smart meter installers fit gas and electricity meters in customers' homes and businesses.
Job Category:What you will do:
As a smart meter installer you could:
- visit customers’ homes or businesses and remove old meters
- fit a new smart meter for gas, electricity or both
- set up the connection between the meter and heating and hot water systems
- test equipment to make sure it’s working properly
- show customers how to use their smart meter
- advise customers on how to be more energy efficient
Skills:
You’ll need:
- practical skills for installing equipment
- the ability to use, repair and maintain machines and tools
- maths knowledge
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
As well as:
- customer service skills
- problem-solving skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail (organisational skills)
- the ability to use your initiative (ambition)
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations (leadership skills)
Entry Requirements:
To become a Smart Meter Installer, you will need a strong foundation in science, mathematics, and practical skills. Here are some subjects that can help prepare you for this career:
- Mathematics: A solid understanding of mathematics is essential for smart meter installation. You’ll need to measure, calculate, and understand electrical systems.
- Science: Subjects like Physics and Chemistry can provide a background in the principles of energy, electricity, and the properties of materials used in electrical systems.
- Design and Technology: This subject can help you gain practical skills, an understanding of electrical circuits, and familiarity with tools and equipment used in installation.
- ICT (Information and Communication Technology): A basic knowledge of ICT can be useful, especially when working with digital and electronic components of smart meters.
- Business Studies: Knowledge of business operations, customer service, and safety regulations can be valuable, as Smart Meter Installers often work for utility companies and interact with customers.
- English: Good communication skills are important for explaining the installation process to customers and documenting work.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
College
You could do a college course to learn some of the skills you need for this job.
In the UK, for example, courses include:
- Diploma in Electrical Installation
- Diploma in Smart Metering – Gas
- Level in Building Services Engineering for Construction
Apprenticeship
You could do a Duel Fuel Smart Meter Installer Apprenticeship.
Direct Application
You can apply directly to energy companies for trainee smart meter installer jobs.
You’ll find it useful if you’ve got experience and qualifications in gas or electricity installation, though this is not essential.
Employers might want you to have studied subjects, such as maths and English, and good customer service skills.
Working Hours and Environment:
A typical week consists of 42-44 hours of work. You could be required to work weekends occasionally.
You could work at a client’s home or at a client’s business. Your working environment may be cramped and you’ll travel often. You may need to wear a uniform.
Career Path & Progression:
You could:
- become a team leader
- train new smart meter installers
- move into gas or electrical engineering with an energy provider
- train as an energy efficiency consultant