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Answering Service Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

CAMPBELL CLINIC PC

AON Phone Operator

Bristol, TN · On-site

$13.75 - $17/hr

Forwards calls to the answering service at the end of the day. * Distributes and collects incoming ... Previous experience with a phone system and experience operating multi-line phones required.

CAMPBELL CLINIC PC

AON Phone Operator

Johnson City, TN · On-site

$16 - $19.75/hr

Forwards calls to the answering service at the end of the day. * Distributes and collects incoming ... Previous experience with a phone system and experience operating multi-line phones required.

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Answering Service Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$10

$13

$14

How much do answering service operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for answering service operator in Tennessee is $13.09, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.21 and $13.94 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an answering service operator?

An answering service operator is a professional who answers phone calls on behalf of businesses or individuals, often outside of regular business hours. They handle messages, provide information, transfer calls, and sometimes schedule appointments or offer basic customer support. Operators are trained to follow specific protocols and scripts based on the client's needs, ensuring that callers receive courteous and accurate assistance. This role is essential for businesses that want to maintain 24/7 availability without having in-house staff at all times.

What is the average pay for answering service operators?

The average pay for answering service operators typically ranges from $10 to $15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Some positions may offer additional benefits or shift differentials for night or weekend work.

What is the difference between Answering Service Operator vs Customer Service Representative?

AspectAnswering Service OperatorCustomer Service Representative
CredentialsTypically no formal certifications requiredOften requires customer service or communication training
Work EnvironmentCall centers, remote or office settingsRetail, call centers, office settings
Employer & IndustryAnswering service companies, healthcare, emergency servicesRetail, tech, finance, healthcare
Search & Comparison IntentFocus on call handling, message taking, emergency responseFocus on customer interaction, issue resolution

Answering Service Operators primarily handle incoming calls, take messages, and may respond to emergencies, often working in call centers or remote setups. Customer Service Representatives engage directly with customers to resolve issues, provide product information, and support sales. While both roles involve communication skills, Answering Service Operators focus more on call management and message accuracy, whereas Customer Service Representatives emphasize customer interaction and problem-solving.

What are some common challenges answering service operators face and how can they be managed?

Answering Service Operators often handle high call volumes and must quickly adapt to various client industries, which can be challenging. Managing stress, maintaining professionalism, and ensuring accurate message delivery are key aspects of the role. Many operators find it helpful to develop strong multitasking and active listening skills, as well as to stay organized through digital tools provided by their employer. Regular feedback from supervisors and collaboration with team members also support continuous improvement and job satisfaction.

What does an answering service operator do?

Answering service operators handle inbound calls for their clients, either through a switchboard or in a call center. As an answering service operator, your job duties include courteously greeting callers, determining the reason for their call, and answering questions or directing their requests to a different department as necessary. Some answering service operators oversee multiple phone lines, so being organized and able to multitask is required. You must also keep a log of the calls in a spreadsheet or database, entering notes and contact information about the call. You sometimes need to take further action, such as contacting a supervisor to resolve difficult situations. Answering service operators may work during regular business hours, or they may receive calls and take messages after-hours.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an answering service operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Answering Service Operator, you need excellent verbal communication, active listening skills, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with multi-line phone systems and call center software is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and attention to detail help operators handle a variety of callers and situations effectively. These skills ensure efficient, accurate message delivery and provide a positive experience for both callers and clients.
More about Answering Service Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Answering Service Operator jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Answering Service Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
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What are popular job titles related to Answering Service Operator jobs in TN? For Answering Service Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Answering Service Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Answering Service Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 20% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $27,228 per year, or $13.1 per hour.

Customer Service Operator

Tennessee Oncology

Nashville, TN • On-site

Other

Re-posted 25 days ago

Tennessee Oncology rating

6.8

Company rating: 6.8 out of 10

Based on 27 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Tennessee Oncology, one of the nation's largest, community-based cancer care specialists, is home to one of the leading clinical trial networks in the country. Established 1976 in Nashville, Tennessee Oncology's mission remains unchanged: To provide access to high-quality cancer care and the expertise of clinical research for all patients, at convenient locations within their community and close to their home. Our growing network of physicians and locations is based on this mission. Tennessee Oncology is committed to advancing both the science of detection and targeted treatments, and to making these advances available to every patient. We believe caring for cancer patients is a privilege.
Why Join Us? We are looking for talented and highly-motivated individuals who demonstrate a natural desire to support the meaningful work of community oncologists and the patients we serve.
Job Description:
The Customer Service Operator/ Patient Service Representative provides medical office support by functioning as the primary resource for answering multiple incoming telephone lines, connecting callers to the appropriate office personnel, and routing messages as needed.
• Answers all incoming calls in a prompt, courteous and professional manner.
• Routes calls and messages appropriately, offering voice mail, paging or redirection of calls as needed.
• Follows standard operating procedures (SOPs) for obtaining pertinent information depending on nature of call.
• Presents a personable, resourceful approach to problem solving, as well as support and help to all callers.
• Greets patients/visitors and aids as appropriate.
• Distributes simple outbound correspondence or copies of records, as necessary.
• Demonstrates excellent customer service.
• Responds promptly to patients, physicians, and clinical requests.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES:
• Knowledge of medical terminology.
• Ability to use multi-line phone system, including transferring calls and paging.
• Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with callers and patients
• Ability to remain calm and defuse irate callers and patient by collaborating with them to identify concerns and properly direct calls.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise independent discretion and judgment.
• Ability to multi-task; enjoy fast-paced office with constantly changing demands while maintaining a positive outlook.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
• High School Diploma or Equivalent.
• Must be highly proficient in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel, PowerPoint.
• Experience in the operation of multiple telephone lines/switchboard/console.

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