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Long Distance Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

CommonSpirit Health

PBX Operator

Prescott, AZ · On-site

As our PBX Operator, you will be a pivotal communication hub, skillfully managing inbound and ... Also places outbound and long distance calls as needed * Displays a very high level of service and ...

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$37

How much do long distance operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for long distance operator in the United States is $23.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.03 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Long Distance Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Long Distance Operator, you need excellent verbal communication skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with telephone switchboards, call routing systems, and sometimes computer-based logging tools is typically required. Strong customer service, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are critical soft skills. These competencies ensure efficient and accurate call handling, high-quality service, and effective problem-solving in a fast-paced telecommunications environment.

What are some common challenges faced by Long Distance Operators and how can they be addressed?

Long Distance Operators often encounter challenges such as handling high call volumes, managing time-sensitive requests, and maintaining clear communication with customers. They must also quickly troubleshoot connection issues and adapt to shifts in technology, such as transitioning from traditional switchboards to digital systems. Staying organized, practicing patience, and participating in ongoing training can help operators overcome these challenges and provide efficient, courteous service.

What are long distance operators?

Long distance operators are telecommunications professionals who assist customers in placing long distance telephone calls, often between different regions or countries. Traditionally, they connected calls manually, provided information about rates, and helped with billing inquiries or collect calls. Although much of the work is now automated, some operators still support specialized services or handle complex call scenarios. Their role requires strong communication skills and attention to detail to ensure accurate call connections and customer satisfaction.

What is the difference between Long Distance Operator vs Local Telephone Operator?

AspectLong Distance OperatorLocal Telephone Operator
CredentialsTypically requires a high school diploma and basic telecommunications trainingSimilar credentials, often with additional customer service skills
Work EnvironmentCall centers, telecommunication companies, remote or office settingsCall centers, customer service centers, often in office environments
Employer & IndustryTelecom providers, long-distance service companiesLocal phone service providers, telecom companies
Primary RoleConnecting long-distance calls, providing information, billing assistanceHandling local calls, customer inquiries, and service issues

In summary, Long Distance Operators focus on managing and connecting long-distance calls, often requiring specific training for long-distance services. Local Telephone Operators primarily handle local calls and customer service within a specific geographic area. Both roles are essential in the telecommunications industry but differ mainly in scope and call type.

More about Long Distance Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Long Distance Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Long Distance Operator jobs are:
Long Distance Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Long Distance Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 97% Full Time, and 2% Part Time. Highlights an 94% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,930 per year, or $23 per hour.

Houston Switchboard Operator (Part Time 11pm-7am and Fill in Shifts)

Innovation At Work Inc

Houston, TX • On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Other

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Description

PRIMARY LOCATION:
The Place of Performance is at Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, 2002 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030
CITIZENSHIP REQUIREMENT:  US Citizenship

EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS:
High School Diploma or equivalent

MINIMUM REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:
Must have with at least three years of telephone switchboard operating experience, of which one year involved substantial responsibility for placing a variety of special calls (e.g., conference calls, long distance calls, and local calls) over varied circuits or routings
Capable of placing various types of calls and performing operator services that require familiarity with large, multi-division organizational units.
Must effectively deal with individuals from diverse backgrounds and work under pressure.

Requirements

POSITION OVERVIEW

Operators should assume the responsibility for placing a variety of special calls (e.g., conference calls, long distance calls, and local calls) over varied circuits or routings, or performing information operator work, which requires knowledge of the organizational units and major functions of a large multi-division organization

shall have the ability to meet and deal with people from a variety of backgrounds, with varying levels of understanding, work under pressure and stressful conditions, and adapt to changing working conditions.

Answer all incoming calls using the MEDVAMC Standard Greeting in a polite, efficient, and friendly manner, even during heavy workload or crises.

Provide general information such as visiting hours and directions to the Medical Center.

Operate emergency call and alarm systems, including Code Blue, fire, disaster, Code Green, Code Brown, and other urgent notifications.

Use audio, radio, and digital paging systems, and maintain relevant records.

Respond to patient and employee locator inquiries using computer terminals and published rosters.

Operate the public address and radio paging systems as required, particularly during emergencies.

Handle threatening or suicidal calls calmly and professionally, follow suicide prevention protocols, and notify proper authorities.

Maintain up-to-date on-call personnel and essential staff schedules.

Utilize two-way radios to communicate with Police and provide assistance during emergencies.

Maintain workspace security and prevent unauthorized access.

Adhere to ADP and Privacy Act guidelines for securing printed and electronic data.

Assist with placing commercial and FTS (Federal Telecommunication System) calls.

Report telephone equipment malfunctions and log service complaints.

Document and record long-distance/toll calls and emergency responses.

Use paging and overhead systems to support Medical Center operations.

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