ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Phone Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Rancho Trade Inc

Phone Operator and Office Support

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$18 - $23.25/hr

Description: We're looking for an organized, dependable, and friendly person to join our team as a Phone Operator & Office Support . This is an entry-level position for someone who enjoys variety, is ...

Rancho Trade Inc

Phone Operator and Office Support

Del Mar, CA · On-site

$18 - $23.25/hr

Description: We're looking for an organized, dependable, and friendly person to join our team as a Phone Operator & Office Support . This is an entry-level position for someone who enjoys variety, is ...

Personal Telephone Answering Service

telephone

San Jose, CA · On-site

$19 - $23.75/hr

As a telephone Operator, you will answer all incoming calls, answer questions, and direct calls to the appropriate people and places. You will also verify information over the phone, update ...

Personal Telephone Answering Service

telephone

San Jose, CA · On-site

$19 - $23.75/hr

As a telephone Operator, you will answer all incoming calls, answer questions, and direct calls to the appropriate people and places. You will also verify information over the phone, update ...

Personal Telephone Answering Service

telephone

San Jose, CA · On-site

$19 - $23.75/hr

As a telephone Operator, you will answer all incoming calls, answer questions, and direct calls to the appropriate people and places. You will also verify information over the phone, update ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPhone Operator JobsPhone Operator Jobs in California

Phone Operator information

See California salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do phone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for phone 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.

How to become a phone operator?

A telephone operator dispatches calls on behalf of a company or organization. Often referred to as a phone or switchboard operator, a telephone operator is central to company communication. The phone operator may manage both incoming and outgoing calls and helps to facilitate phone communications between internal members of the company. The minimum education requirement to become a telephone operator is a high school diploma or GED certificate. Secure a job that utilizes your skills in customer relations, data entry, scheduling, and communication for experience. Complete on-the-job training to gain proficiency in company practices and PBX or switchboard operation.

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

To thrive as a Phone Operator, you need excellent verbal communication skills, active listening abilities, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with multi-line phone systems, customer relationship management (CRM) software, and basic computer applications is typically required. Patience, professionalism, and problem-solving skills help operators manage high call volumes and diverse customer inquiries. These competencies are crucial for ensuring efficient information delivery, positive caller experiences, and smooth organizational communication.

What are some common challenges faced by phone operators and how can they be managed effectively?

Phone operators often handle high call volumes, deal with diverse caller needs, and occasionally encounter difficult or distressed individuals. Managing these challenges requires strong communication skills, patience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure. Many organizations provide training and support tools, such as call scripts and escalation protocols, to help operators respond efficiently. Regular team meetings and feedback sessions also help operators stay informed and supported in their roles.

What is the difference between Phone Operator vs Customer Service Representative?

AspectPhone OperatorCustomer Service Representative
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; basic communication skillsHigh school diploma; communication and problem-solving skills
Work EnvironmentCall centers, reception areas, or front desksCall centers, retail, or office settings
Employer & Industry UsageTelecommunications, hospitality, healthcareRetail, banking, tech support, healthcare
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for communication roles involving direct phone contactBroader customer interaction roles, including in-person and online

While both roles involve communication via phone, Phone Operators primarily handle direct phone calls, often in a switchboard or reception setting. Customer Service Representatives typically manage a wider range of customer interactions, including calls, emails, and in-person support. The roles overlap in communication skills and work environments but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How much do phone operators make in the US?

In the US, phone operators typically earn a median hourly wage of around $15 to $20, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $30,000 to $40,000. Wages can vary based on experience, location, and the specific employer, and some roles may require customer service skills and familiarity with communication systems.
More about Phone Operator jobs

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

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

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

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

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

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

What cities in California are hiring for Phone Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Phone Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Phone Operator jobs in CA?

For Phone Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Phone Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Phone Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,661 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Phone Operator and Office Support

Del Mar, CA • On-site

Rancho Trade Inc
See more jobs at Rancho Trade Incexternal

$18 - $23.25/hr

Other

This job post has expired 2 days ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Description:

 We’re looking for an organized, dependable, and friendly person to join our team as a Phone Operator & Office Support. This is an entry-level position for someone who enjoys variety, is good at keeping track of details and follow-up, and naturally notices what needs to be done. You’ll answer overflow calls, help customers and vendors, maintain records, assist with office and store operations, and jump in wherever needed to keep things moving. 

Why This Job Is Different

No two days are exactly the same. You might spend part of your day answering phones and helping with a customer repair, then update a vendor return, organize a spreadsheet, help prepare something for an event, or make sure the breakroom is stocked.

We're looking for the person who fills in the holes—someone who sees what needs attention, keeps things moving, and takes pride in making the people around them more organized and effective.

At Mary's, everyone pitches in. Sometimes that means working on a spreadsheet, sometimes coordinating a vendor return, and sometimes blowing up balloons for an event. No task is too small when it helps the team and creates a better experience for our customers.

No extensive administrative experience is required. We are willing to train the right person. Organization, reliability, follow-through, a pleasant personality, and a willingness to help are what matter most.

Requirements: The Person We're Looking For

You don't need to have a long administrative resume. We're much more interested in how you work.

You may be a great fit if you are:

  • Organized and naturally good at keeping track of details. 
  • Good at follow-up and making sure things actually get finished. 
  • Friendly and comfortable talking to customers and vendors on the phone. 
  • Dependable and willing to take ownership of tasks. 
  • Someone who notices when something needs to be done and doesn't always wait to be asked. 
  • Comfortable learning new systems and processes. 
  • Comfortable using Microsoft Outlook and Excel. 
  • Able to manage several small tasks without losing track of them. 
  • A team player who is happy to jump in and help wherever needed. 

Digital or creative skills are a plus! Experience or interest in Canva, simple graphic design, photography, social media, or other digital tools would be welcome, but is not required.


Compensation details: 20-20 Hourly Wage


PIaa51d91fc263-37820-41395772

Apply