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Answering Service Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Answering Service Care

Billing Specialist

Margate, FL · On-site

$22/hr

... answering service to several thousand service companies nationwide, including doctors, lawyers, plumbers, electricians, and HVAC contractors, just to name a few. As a family-owned and operated ...

Covenanthealth

SWITCHBOARD OPERATOR

Bangor, ME · On-site

$16.08 - $22.15/hr

Joseph telecommunication operator also acts as the answering service operator for several physician practices and must have the ability to answer the practice lines accordingly with the correct ...

New England Baptist Hospital

$17.75 - $22/hr

Operators are expected to be familiar with names, extension numbers, ID numbers and terminology ... Answering service responsibilities * Take office instructions correctly and document on system ...

New England Baptist Hospital

$17.75 - $22/hr

Operators are expected to be familiar with names, extension numbers, ID numbers and terminology ... Answering service responsibilities * Take office instructions correctly and document on system ...

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How much do answering service operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for answering service operator in the United States is $14.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $15.38 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.
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Answering Service Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Answering Service Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,000 per year, or $14.4 per hour.

Communications Operator, Switchboard/Answering Service (Full Time)

Benefis Health System

Great Falls, MT • On-site

$17.86/hr

Part-time

Posted 16 days ago

Benefis Health System rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 61 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

669th of 889 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Benefis is one of Montana's largest and premier health systems, and we are committed to providing excellent care for all, healing body, mind, and spirit. At Benefis, we work hard to support our employees in every aspect of their careers by offering outstanding benefits and compensation, state-of-the-art facilities, and multiple growth opportunities. The only thing missing is you!
Operates a computerized switchboard to process incoming calls, screens and extends calls to appropriate department, personnel, or location, including long distance and conference calls as needed. Monitors and dispatches appropriate level of response to ensure patient and employee safety when necessary for emergent situations. Demonstrates the ability to deal with pressure to meet deadlines, to be accurate, and to handle constantly changing situations. Demonstrates the ability to deal with a variety of people, deal with stressful situations, and handle conflict.
Will perform all job duties or job tasks as assigned. Will follow and adhere to all requirements, regulations and procedures of any licensing board or agency. Must comply with all Benefis Health System's organization policies and procedures.
Education/License/Experience Requirements:
  • High School diploma or equivalent
  • Six months experience in customer service preferred
  • Six months experience as an office and a call center environment preferred
  • Knowledge of medical terminology preferred

Exemption Wage
Non-Exempt
Starting Wage
$17.86/hourlyActual offered wage is based on applicable experience

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