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Answering Service Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

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.

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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 Sep 8, 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 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.

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 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 is the average pay for answering service operators?

Answering service operators typically earn an average hourly wage of around $12 to $15, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $25,000 to $31,000. Pay can vary based on experience, location, and whether the role involves night or weekend shifts, which may offer higher compensation.

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:

What are popular job titles related to Answering Service Operator jobs in Tennessee?

For Answering Service Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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:

Infographic showing various Answering Service Operator job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $27,228 per year, or $13.1 per hour.

CLERICAL SUPPORT FT- NORTH PEDIATRICS

Hixson, TN • On-site

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

Clerical Support Ft- North Pediatrics

North Pediatrics

Position Type Full Time Education Level High School

Description

Clerical Support - North Pediatrics

Galen Medical Group offers several medical specialties throughout the Chattanooga region. We provide quality care and patient-friendly services to adults and children of all ages.

Our mission is to elevate the health of our community through multiple medical specialties providing excellent care delivered with wisdom, compassion, integrity, and a commitment to technology, education, and scientific inquiry. Galen is CHATTANOOGA'S Doctor!

Summary/Objective:

Welcome visitors by greeting them in person or over the telephone in a prompt, professional and courteous manner recognizing this position is the initial representation of all Galen Medical Group and the Site specifically. This position provides support in the following areas: Check-In, Check-Out, Switchboard Operator, Appointment Scheduler, and/or Receptionist.

Essential Functions: Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these essential functions.

  • Exhibits a high-level customer service approach by greeting all patients and visitors in a timely and helpful manner.
  • Obtain, update, and enter demographic and insurance information for the patient into the practice management system (PMS).
  • Scan patient's insurance cards into the PMS. Verify coverage and eligibility.
  • Point of Service collections – Collect Co-pays, Co-insurance, Past Due balances and Collection balances per site protocol.
  • Notifies appropriate personnel of the patient's presence for medical services.
  • Performs daily reconciliation of cash, checks, and credit card payments.
  • Responsible for credit card batch processing and daily deposit reconciliation.
  • Notifies the manager immediately of discrepancies in payments and collections, including discrepancies with out-of-balance batch reports.
  • Knowledgeable of participating insurance plans accepted by the office.
  • Provide the patient with updates regarding delays in the Provider's schedule.
  • Assures the Waiting room is clean and tidy at all times.
  • If Check-Out duties are included in your job position, the following guidelines must be followed:
    • Schedule future appointments
    • Point of Service collections if done post visit
    • Return to Work and School notes
    • Schedule specialist appointments, and outside testing depending on site.
  • If Switchboard duties are included in your job position, the following guidelines must be followed:
    • Responsible for opening the Switchboard when the clinic opens.
    • Transfers and removes lines to and from the forwarding function to answering service when deemed appropriate by the manager.
    • Receives telephone messages via telephone and/or fax from the answering service and relays messages to the appropriate parties.
    • Answers all incoming telephone calls and alerts the appropriate staff of needs.
    • Courteously and efficiently assists patients with their needs when receiving calls.
    • Accurately records detailed messages and sends task to the appropriate person.
    • Notifies personnel of incoming telephone calls according to the department guidelines.
    • Refers to On Call schedule daily and relay to the answering service before closing the office.
    • Active participation in process improvement efforts.
  • If Appointment Scheduling is included in your job position, the following guidelines must be followed:
    • Check availability for requested appointment. If provider or time is not available, offer alternate options to the patient according to office protocol.
    • Schedule appointments in PMS.
    • Reschedule patient appointments as requested.
    • Manage recall list.
  • If Pharmacy duties are included in your job position, the following guidelines must be followed:
    • Answering telephone calls and conducting outbound calls.
    • Checking in patients for Patient Assistance and Pharmacy appointments.
    • Running the Pharmacy P.O.S. system.
    • Setting up Pharmacy deliveries.
    • Assisting with other Pharmacy Related duties as necessary.
  • May be required to assist other team members based on office demands.
  • Must adhere to HIPAA guidelines at all times in order to maintain the highest level of patient confidentiality.
  • Other duties as assigned by Regional Manager or Site Manager.

Other Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Promote the mission, vision, and values of Galen Medical Group.
  • Maintain confidentiality of all patients, medical, financial, and legal information.
  • Report to work on time and as scheduled.
  • Represent the organization in a positive & professional manner.
  • Comply with all organization policies and standards regarding ethical business practices.
  • Participate in performance improvement and continuous quality improvement activities.
  • Attend regular staff meetings and in-services as directed by your manager.
  • Consistently demonstrate the value of the team concept.
  • Understands and abides by OSHA, HIPAA & CLIA standards.

Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

  • Ability to handle difficult situations involving patients, physicians, or others in a professional manner.
  • Ability to work independently, exercise creativity, be attentive to detail, and maintain a positive attitude.
  • Ability to manage multiple and simultaneous responsibilities.

The above job description is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for this job. It is not intended to be a complete statement of duties, responsibilities, or requirements.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

Required:

  • High school graduate or equivalent.
  • Must be computer literate.
  • Ability to perform mathematical calculations.
  • Above-average spelling skills.

Preferred:

  • 2-3 years' medical receptionist experience.
  • Medical experience and terminology helpful but not required.

As part of the Galen Medical Group, the applicant must be a team player and provide excellent customer service while assessing our patients' needs efficiently. Perform all duties in compliance with Galen Medical policies, HIPAA, and OSHA standards.

Galen Medical Group is a member of the TN Drug-Free Workplace and it is a requirement that we conduct a pre-employment drug screen, as part of the hiring process.

Why should you apply?

  • 401(k) benefits.
  • Education reimbursement.
  • Holiday Pay.
  • Great earned time-off policy.
  • Company-paid Life Insurance & Long Term Disability.