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Part Time Telephone Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

City of Vallejo

Communications Operator I

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$75K - $91K/yr

The List established by this recruitment may be used to fill full-time, part-time, limited-term ... Determines appropriate communications or research channels selected from emergency telephone lines ...

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All JobsTelephone Operator JobsPart Time Telephone Operator JobsPart Time Telephone Operator Jobs in California

Part Time Telephone Operator information

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How much do part time telephone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time 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 does a part time telephone operator do?

A part time telephone operator is responsible for managing incoming and outgoing calls for an organization, often working in shifts that do not cover a full workweek. Their duties include answering calls, directing callers to the appropriate departments or individuals, taking messages, and sometimes providing basic information or customer service. Telephone operators may also handle emergency calls, update directories, and record call logs. This role requires good communication skills, professionalism, and the ability to multitask efficiently. Working part time allows flexibility for those who have other commitments or are seeking supplementary income.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a part time telephone operator, and why are they important?

A Part Time Telephone Operator should have excellent verbal communication skills, basic computer literacy, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with multi-line phone systems, call routing software, and office communication platforms is often required. Strong listening abilities, patience, and a customer-oriented attitude help operators handle diverse calls professionally. These competencies ensure efficient call management, positive customer experiences, and smooth information flow within organizations.

What are the most common challenges faced by part time telephone operators, and how can they be managed effectively?

Part-time telephone operators often encounter challenges such as handling high call volumes during peak periods, managing difficult or impatient callers, and quickly adapting to different communication systems. To manage these effectively, it's helpful to develop strong time management and conflict resolution skills, as well as to familiarize yourself with the organization's protocols and technology. Support from supervisors and collaboration with colleagues can also alleviate pressure and ensure a smoother workflow, making the role rewarding and manageable.

What is the difference between Part Time Telephone Operator vs Customer Service Representative?

AspectPart Time Telephone OperatorCustomer Service Representative
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalentHigh school diploma or equivalent; some roles may prefer additional training
Work EnvironmentCall centers, front desks, or reception areasCall centers, retail, or office settings
Employer & IndustryHospitals, hotels, corporate officesRetail, telecommunications, service industries
Primary DutiesAnswering phones, routing calls, basic informationHandling customer inquiries, resolving issues, providing info

While both roles involve communication via phone, Part Time Telephone Operators primarily focus on routing calls and providing basic information, often in reception or front desk settings. Customer Service Representatives handle a broader range of customer inquiries and support, typically in retail or service industries. The credentials and work environments overlap, but their core responsibilities differ slightly.

Can I work in a part time telephone operator call center without experience?

Part time telephone operator positions often do not require prior experience, as training is typically provided on the job. Basic communication skills, a friendly demeanor, and the ability to handle calls are usually sufficient for entry-level roles in call centers. Some employers may prefer candidates with customer service or phone etiquette skills, but many roles are open to beginners.

What are the most commonly searched types of Telephone Operator jobs in California?

The most popular types of Telephone Operator jobs in California are:

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Part Time Telephone Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Part Time Telephone Operator job openings:

Part Time Telephone Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Part Time Telephone Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Full Time, 47% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,661 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

San Diego Switchboard Operator 3:00pm-11:00m Part-time Shift

Innovation At Work

San Diego, CA • On-site

$16 - $20.25/hr

Part-time

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

Job description

Part-Time CoveragesIAW is seeking part-time coverages. The first part-time coverage needed is for Sunday from 3:00pm to 11:00pm with fill-in coverage available. Additionally, weekday midday shifts for four hours are required. The candidate will work approximately 20 hours per week over 3-4 days.

The candidate shall answer and process all incoming calls.

Responsibilities include:

Answering incoming calls politely, efficiently, and in a friendly manner, even during heavy workload and crises periods.

Routing incoming calls appropriately throughout the facility.

Receiving collect calls, only if authorized, and obtaining and recording time and charges.

Providing immediate, professional responses to and recording emergency alarms, codes, bomb threats, fires, and disasters. Receiving and transmitting over two-way radios.

Following instructions if a bomb threat is received, adhering to established written procedures and formats.

Ensuring no unauthorized long-distance calls are made and no unauthorized collect calls are accepted.

Utilizing the facility radio, overhead paging, pocket paging, and code-paging systems as required.

Assisting in placing various types of outgoing calls and coordinating and patching through one or more stations when necessary.

Assisting facility staff and patients in placing calls, including commercial and Federal Telecommunication Systems (FTS) calls.

Explaining to users why calls cannot be completed as requested in a polite, efficient, and friendly manner.

Maintaining a log of all telephone equipment malfunctions and complaints regarding telephone service.

Verifying telephone equipment malfunctions and reporting them to Information Resources Management Service (IRMS) via ticket upon request of callers.

Creating log sheets and monitoring each for completion.

Meeting the Utilization Review Accreditation Committee (URAC) standards.

Requirements:

Citizenship requirement: US CitizenshipEducation and qualifications: The candidate should possess a high school/associate's degree or equivalent work experience.

Minimum required skills/experience: The candidate must have 1-2 years of experience as a telephone operator. The candidate must be able to assume the responsibility for placing a variety of special long distance calls (e.g. conference calls, collect calls, appointment 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. The candidate must 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 work conditions. The candidate must meet the URAC standards for abandonment rate and speed to answer.

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