1

Hospital Switchboard Operator Jobs in California

Switchboard Operator

Downey, CA · On-site

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

The fully integrated network is comprised of PIH Health Downey Hospital, PIH Health Good Samaritan ... operator, medical office front/back work experience preferred * Medical terminology knowledge ...

Switchboard Operator

Downey, CA · On-site

$23 - $29.90/hr

The fully integrated network is comprised of PIH Health Downey Hospital, PIH Health Good Samaritan ... operator, medical office front/back work experience preferred * Medical terminology knowledge ...

Switchboard Operator

Downey, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

The fully integrated network is comprised of PIH Health Downey Hospital, PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital, PIH Health Whittier Hospital, 37 outpatient medical office buildings, a multispecialty ...

Switchboard Operator

Whittier, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

The fully integrated network is comprised of PIH Health Downey Hospital, PIH Health Good Samaritan Hospital, PIH Health Whittier Hospital, 37 outpatient medical office buildings, a multispecialty ...

Be Seen First

Route urgent calls or broadcast safety codes and alarms in places like hospitals. * Information and directory assistance * Patient and visitor communications review * Administrative call processing

PBX Operator is required to answer incoming phone calls and direct them to the right person or ... This position requires a thorough knowledge of the hospital switchboard, a complete knowledge of ...

PBX Operator is required to answer incoming phone calls and direct them to the right person or ... This position requires a thorough knowledge of the hospital switchboard, a complete knowledge of ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Hospital Switchboard Operator information

See California salary details

$8

$16

$24

How much do hospital switchboard operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for hospital switchboard operator in California is $16.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hospital switchboard operator?

Hospital switchboard operators are professionals who manage incoming and outgoing telephone calls within a hospital. They are responsible for connecting calls to the appropriate departments or personnel, paging staff, handling emergency codes, and providing information to callers. Operators play a crucial role in ensuring efficient communication, especially during emergencies, and often serve as the first point of contact for patients, families, and medical staff. Their work helps maintain smooth operations and can be vital in urgent situations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hospital switchboard operator?

To thrive as a Hospital Switchboard Operator, you need strong communication skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with telephone switchboard systems, paging software, and basic computer applications is typically required. Excellent customer service, problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to remain calm under pressure are essential soft skills. These skills ensure efficient call management, accurate message delivery, and effective coordination in a hospital’s fast-paced environment.

What are some common challenges faced by hospital switchboard operators and how can they be managed?

Hospital switchboard operators often handle a high volume of calls, including emergency situations, which requires them to stay calm under pressure and prioritize effectively. They must quickly connect callers to the appropriate departments or personnel while maintaining confidentiality and professionalism. Managing multiple tasks simultaneously and adapting to rapidly changing situations are key, and operators typically receive training and support from their team to help manage these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Hospital Switchboard Operator vs Medical Receptionist?

AspectHospital Switchboard OperatorMedical Receptionist
CredentialsNone mandatory, communication skills preferredHigh school diploma, medical office training often preferred
Work EnvironmentHospital or healthcare facility front deskMedical office, clinic, or hospital reception area
Primary DutiesAnswering calls, routing calls, emergency communicationScheduling appointments, patient check-in, administrative tasks

The Hospital Switchboard Operator primarily manages communication within the hospital, focusing on call routing and emergency communication. In contrast, the Medical Receptionist handles patient interactions, scheduling, and administrative duties. Both roles are essential in healthcare settings but serve different functions related to communication and patient management.

Is it hard to be a hospital switchboard operator?

Hospital switchboard operators need strong communication skills, the ability to multitask, and familiarity with phone systems and hospital protocols. The job can be demanding due to the need for quick responses and handling multiple calls, but it generally requires on-the-job training and attention to detail.

What are popular job titles related to Hospital Switchboard Operator jobs in California?

For Hospital Switchboard Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hospital Switchboard Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Hospital Switchboard Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Hospital Switchboard Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Hospital Switchboard Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Hospital Switchboard Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Locum Tenens, 3% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,385 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

$19.28 - $27.95/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Ridgecrest Regional Hospital rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

260th of 1,064 rated hospitals


Job description


Job Summary 

  • Occupation: Switchboard Operator 

  • Specialty: Communications 

  • Salary: $19.28–$27.95/hour 

  • Working Hours: 40 hours/week 

  • Shifts: Varies 

  • On-Call: No 

  • Degree Required: High school diploma or equivalent 

  • Position Type: Full Time 

  • Work Environment: Hospital 

  • Location: 93555, Ridgecrest, California, United States 

  • Visa Sponsorship: No 

Job Description 

We’re looking for a Switchboard Operator who is ready to support clear, professional communication throughout Ridgecrest Regional Hospital. In this role, you’ll operate the hospital telephone system, relay incoming, outgoing, interoffice, and interdepartmental calls, initiate emergency code calls when needed, and assist patients, visitors, and staff by directing them to the appropriate area or individual. 

You’ll also create the daily EMTALA Call List, perform cashiering functions, assist with miscellaneous hospital communication and clerical duties, and complete tasks assigned by the Department Manager, Department Assistant Manager, and Lead PBX Operator. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Operate the hospital telephone system and relay incoming, outgoing, interoffice, and interdepartmental calls. 

  • Call emergency codes when initiated. 

  • Create the EMTALA Call List daily. 

  • Perform cashiering functions and miscellaneous hospital communication and clerical duties. 

  • Greet patients, visitors, and staff, determine their needs, and direct them to the appropriate area or individual. 

  • Complete tasks assigned by the Department Manager, Department Assistant Manager, and Lead PBX Operator. 

Collaborative Teamwork 

This role involves working closely with our team to deliver effective, patient- and mission-focused services and contribute to a supportive and collaborative work environment. 

Qualifications 

  • High school graduate or equivalent. 

  • Ability to read, write, understand, and communicate effectively in the English language. 

  • Knowledge of office organization and basic clerical skills, including experience with computer terminals, computer systems, and PC Windows software. 

  • Experience using telephone systems and performing cashiering functions preferred. 

  • Demonstrated maturity, careful judgment, and ability to manage stressful situations. 

  • One year of experience as a telephone operator, receptionist, or in a related field preferred. 

  • Customer service experience required. 

  • Ability to work independently and complete tasks with minimal supervision. 

  • Ability to demonstrate maturity, careful judgment, and critical decision-making while maintaining appropriate standards of behavior and conduct. 

  • Maintains professionalism and demonstrates common courtesy. 

  • Works well with coworkers and other departments. 

  • Must be able to put into practice Service Excellence skills with our patients, families, coworkers, and community. 

Benefits You'll Enjoy 

  • Medical, Dental, Vision 

  • 403B with Employer Match 

  • Life Insurance 

  • Flex Spending – Health Care & Dependent Care 

  • Employee Assistance Program 

  • Gym Membership Reimbursement 

  • Sick and Vacation Time 

  • RRH “Earn-To-Learn” Program 

Welcome To RRH 

Established for over 60 years, RRH is a non-profit, DNV-accredited, full-service hospital and integrated healthcare system serving our region across a 38-acre campus. RRH includes a 25-bed acute care hospital, a 125-bed skilled nursing facility, and a comprehensive network of services supported by more than 860 employees. Our organization operates five primary care clinics and other multi-specialty clinics, an ambulatory surgery center, ambulance services, and full-service imaging and laboratory capabilities—allowing RRH to deliver coordinated, high-quality care across the continuum. RRH received the American Medical Association's Joy in Medicine Award in both 2023 and 2025, recognizing its commitment to healthcare worker well-being. RRH also maintains an established physician well-being program. 

Our mission is to be the partner of choice for the healthcare needs of our community. Our purpose is to care for our community's health and the well-being of those who care for them. 

About Ridgecrest 

Ridgecrest is a family-friendly community of 38,000 in the desert of central Southern California, far from the traffic and commotion of LA. Affordable and safe, it's been voted as the best place to live in Kern County by Niche. Home of the China Lake Naval Air Weapons Station, it is near the Sierra Mountains and full of natural wonders, outdoor activities, and sunshine. Our hospital is close to Mammoth Ski Area, Mount Whitney, Sequoia National Forest and Death Valley. Learn more About Ridgecrest and the Outdoor Activities around it. 


What Ridgecrest Regional Hospital employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom