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Hospital Telephone Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Responsibilities Telephone Operator (PBX) position located at Corona Regional Medical Center in ... Oversees all hospital alarms and responds efficiently when they signal or sound off. Handles ...

Responsibilities Telephone Operator (PBX) position located at Corona Regional Medical Center in ... Oversees all hospital alarms and responds efficiently when they signal or sound off. Handles ...

Responsibilities Telephone Operator (PBX) position located at Corona Regional Medical Center in ... Oversees all hospital alarms and responds efficiently when they signal or sound off. Handles ...

Responsibilities Telephone Operator (PBX) position located at Corona Regional Medical Center in ... Oversees all hospital alarms and responds efficiently when they signal or sound off. Handles ...

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Hospital Telephone Operator information

See California salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do hospital telephone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for hospital telephone operator in California is $17.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.43 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hospital telephone operator?

Hospital telephone operators are professionals responsible for answering, directing, and managing incoming and outgoing calls within a hospital or healthcare facility. They serve as a vital communication link between patients, families, medical staff, and departments. In addition to handling general inquiries, they may assist with emergency calls, relay messages, and provide information about hospital services and locations. Their role helps ensure efficient and effective communication throughout the hospital.

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

To thrive as a Hospital Telephone Operator, you need excellent verbal communication, multitasking abilities, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with multi-line phone systems, paging software, and hospital information systems is typically required. Patience, professionalism, and strong problem-solving skills help operators manage stressful situations and provide outstanding customer service. These competencies are crucial for ensuring efficient communication, quick response to emergencies, and a positive experience for patients and staff.

What are some typical challenges faced by hospital telephone operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Hospital telephone operators often handle high call volumes, including emergency situations and emotionally distressed callers. A major challenge is quickly and accurately directing calls while maintaining a calm and professional demeanor. Effective time management, strong communication skills, and familiarity with hospital departments are essential for managing these demands. Many operators also participate in ongoing training to stay current with hospital protocols and improve their ability to assist both patients and staff efficiently.

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

AspectHospital Telephone OperatorMedical Receptionist
CredentialsHigh school diploma; communication skillsHigh school diploma; administrative skills
Work EnvironmentHospital front desk, call centerClinic or hospital front desk
Employer & IndustryHospitals, healthcare facilitiesMedical offices, clinics
Primary RoleAnswering calls, routing calls, pagingScheduling appointments, patient check-in

While both roles involve patient interaction and communication, the Hospital Telephone Operator primarily handles incoming calls and paging within the hospital, focusing on communication logistics. The Medical Receptionist manages patient check-in, scheduling, and administrative tasks. Both positions are essential in healthcare settings but serve different functions related to patient flow and communication.

What does a hospital telephone operator do in a hospital?

A hospital telephone operator manages incoming and outgoing calls within the hospital, directs calls to appropriate departments or staff, and provides information to patients, visitors, and staff. They often use a multi-line phone system and must communicate clearly, maintain confidentiality, and handle emergency calls efficiently.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Hospital Telephone Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 11% As Needed, 84% Full Time, and 5% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,661 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Switchboard Operator

Ridgecrest, CA • On-site


Ridgecrest Regional Hospital
Health Care and Social Assistance • 201 - 500 employees

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

People enjoy working here

Good employer

Paid breaks


$19.28 - $27.95/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


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. 



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