ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Phone Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

HV Global Group, Inc.

Phone Operator

Escondido, CA · On-site

$22/hr

Hourly Rate: $22.00 Hourly Rate: $22.00 Shift:1st,2nd: must be available to work weekends and holidays Position type: Fulltime JOB SUMMARY Answer, record, log, and process all guest calls, requests ...

HV Global Marketing Corporation

$22/hr

Hourly Rate: $22.00 Hourly Rate: $22.00 Shift:1st,2nd: must be available to work weekends and holidays Position type: Fulltime JOB SUMMARY Answer, record, log, and process all guest calls, requests ...

St Johns Community Health

Operator

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$30/hr

Receives all phone calls and incoming. First person of contact and refers to appropriate department ... One year experience operating a multi-line telephone or switch board system. * Bilingual. * Good ...

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 Jul 31, 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.

Do phone operators exist anymore?

Phone operators, also known as switchboard operators, are largely obsolete due to advances in automated telephone systems and digital technology. Today, most communication is handled by automated systems, and the role of human operators has significantly declined, though some specialized or emergency services may still employ them.

How does a Telephone Operator work?

A telephone operator connects calls by manually or automatically routing incoming and outgoing calls using switchboards or computerized systems. They assist callers with directory information, handle emergency or special requests, and ensure clear communication between parties. Strong communication skills and knowledge of telephony equipment are essential for the role.

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 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.

What are phone operators?

Phone operators are professionals responsible for managing incoming and outgoing telephone calls for an organization. They typically answer calls, direct callers to the appropriate department or person, provide information, and occasionally handle basic customer service requests. In some settings, phone operators may also manage paging systems, schedule appointments, or perform clerical tasks. Their role is crucial for ensuring smooth communication within a business or service environment. Good communication skills, patience, and professionalism are key qualities for this job.

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.

How much does a Telephone Operator make?

The average salary for a telephone operator is around $30,000 to $40,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Many roles also offer shift differentials and benefits, and strong communication skills are essential for success in this field.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A phone operator typically earns less than $4,000 per week; high-paying roles that do not require a degree are rare. Some skilled trades, sales positions, or entrepreneurial ventures can reach that income level, often requiring experience, certifications, or specialized skills. Most jobs paying $4,000 weekly usually demand advanced training or significant experience.
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 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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 56% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $36,661 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Phone Operator

Family Health Care Centers of Greater Los Angeles, Inc.

Bell Gardens, CA • On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

Overview 

"To enhance the quality of life for men, women and children in the greater Los Angeles area through the provision of high quality, accessible and affordable healthcare services."

We offer fantastic benefits, competitive pay, and a great family-oriented environment!

We offer:

  • Medical Benefits - FHCCGLA pays 100% of employee's  Kaiser; Anthem Blue Cross; Health Net; and United Health Care coverage (HMO Plan) subject to change during open enrollment. 
  • 403 B - Through Mutual of America, the company matches up to 5% of employee's salary.  
  • Dental Benefit - MetLife Only (HMO/PPO Plan). 
  • 11 Holidays Observed.
  • 2 Floating Holidays
  • Vision Benefit - MetLife Plan.
  • 1 Birthday Holiday
  • Life Insurance - Accidental Death & Dismemberment; and Long-term Disability.
  • 7 Paid Sick Leave - 56 hours Full-Time
  • Paid Sick Leave - 40, Part-Time and Per-Diem
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • 2 weeks' Vacation
  • AFLAC Benefits

This would be a great opportunity to make a difference with you onboard!

POSITION TITLE: Phone Operator

DEPARTMENT: Reception

REPORTS TO: Reception Supervisor

 

                 POSITION OVERVIEW:

 

The telephone operator is responsible for answering multi-line telephone, triaging calls, taking messages, and scheduling appointments. The telephone operator serves as a liaison between caller and medical support staff.

Responsibilities

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

 

1. Answer telephones by greeting in a courteous and timely manner for proper transfer re-routes            telephone calls.

2. Answer telephones by identifying the department, themselves by first and last name.

3. Answer all calls by third ring.

4. Allow telephone caller to respond prior to being placed on hold.

5. Sort messages for departmental personnel.

6. Check and retrieves answering service for saved messages on Solution Reach.

7. Inform staff of any calls by calling direct ext. first, if no answer, page over intercom no more than        twice.

8. Provide accurate and reliable information regarding Clinic's services.

9. Make reminder phone calls for next day scheduled appointments.

10. Cover Reception Desk as necessary.

11. Updates /modifies patient demographic data according to front office policies.

12. Call all new patient no shows to reschedule appointment.

13. Offer Dental, Optometry and/ or Behavioral Services.

14. Verify Medical/MHLA eligibility for new or current patients as needed.

15. Check Patient Portal for any online appointment requests. Call patient to schedule appointment

16. Maintains a neat, clean and safe work area for which employee is specifically or generally responsible.

17. Maintain privacy and confidentiality for both patient and employee with regard to medical data information.

18. Demonstrate a positive, proactive, can do attitude in responding to customer needs.

19. Works cooperatively and effectively with others.

20. Seeks out additional duties to promote continuity of operations.

21. Completes assignments by the end of the scheduled shift.

22. Communicates work related problems and reports to the Department Supervisor and Lead.

23. Identifies, initiates and implements measures to deliver high quality care to patients and improve        services.

24. Responds efficiently and timely to all patient and provider staff needs and inquiries.

25. Ensures excellent customer service to all FHCCGLA patients.

26. Works with the operations managers to manage patient scheduling and flow to address                      bottlenecks, scheduling issues, etc.

27. Handles patient grievances according to FHCCGLA's Policy & Procedure.

28. Assists in developing, updates & reviews of FHCCGLA Policies & Procedures (P&P's) as                    needed (with input from all other key personnel).

29. Ensures HIPAA compliance by maintaining strict confidentiality of all patient data and                          E.H.R./Practice Management System (PMS) according to regulations and FHCCGLA's P&P's.

30. Attends the following meetings/trainings:

  • Mandatory Quarterly Staff Meeting/Trainings- Quarterly (Jan., Apr., Jul. & Oct.)
  • Corporate Risk Management Meeting- Quarterly (Jan., Apr., Jul. & Oct.), as needed (advanced notice will be provided when feasible)
  • Clinical & Operations (C&O) Meeting- As needed (advanced notice will be provided when feasible)
  • Meetings with FHCCGLA's Executive Leadership, as needed (advanced notice will be provided when feasible)

31. Other pertinent meetings- As scheduled

32. Remains informed of:

  • Current legal and regulatory changes related to scope of practice.
  • Specific programs/payors, insurances accepted, and services being offered at FHCCGLA.
  • All applicable Policies & Procedures

33. All other duties as assigned.

 

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

 

1. Experience in a medical office setting preferred.

2. Current CPR Certification- required to be kept up to date.

3. FQHC experience, highly preferred.

4. Excellent analytical skills.

5. Motivation to take initiative to ensure all tasks performed are completed thoroughly and accurately.

6. Excellent writing and verbal communication skills.

7. Knowledge of administrative principles and procedures.

8. Computer knowledge preferred (e.g., NextGen (E.H.R. & PMS), Microsoft Word and Excel).

9. Bilingual English/Spanish and familiarity with the Hispanic culture.

10. Access to automobile with valid California driver's license and state mandated automobile                  insurance.

11. Work schedule may include evenings, overtime, and weekends as needed.

12. Ability to prioritize workload and work under pressure of deadlines.

13. Ability to meet tight time sensitive deadlines.

14. Motivated and committed to the provision of high-quality healthcare for indigent and                            underserved communities. 

15. Willingness to adapt to changes with regards to the agency's growth and expansion.

16. Ability to speak Spanish, preferred.

17. Ability to handle multiple tasks and work in a busy environment including heavy telephone duty.

18. Promote and provide the means for a working team relationship within Front Office and other              departments.

19. Organized, flexible, thoroughness, dependability and attention to detail.

20. Able to work and communicate effectively with people of diverse culture, education and                      economic backgrounds.

 

ADDITIONAL ELIGIBILITY QUALIFICATIONS:          

1. Strong communication, interpersonal skills, and problem-solving skills.

2. Strong verbal and written skills.

3. Ability to communicate both verbally and in writing.

4. Ability to perform tasks in hectic work environment.

5. Adaptability to program, changes, modifications.

6. Spanish speaking required.

7. Willingness to adapt to changes in agency growth and expansion.

8. Experience in a medical office setting preferred.

9. Ability to handle multiple tasks.

10. Computer experience.

11. Typing at least 25 wpm.

12. High School Diploma or Equivalent.

13. Able to promote and provide the means for a working team relationship within front office and            other departments.

14. Organized, flexible, thoroughness, dependability and attention to detail.

15. Able to handle heavy telephone duty.

16. Able to work and communicate effectively with people of diverse culture, education, social and            economic backgrounds.

17. Medical Terminology: 1 year.

18.Telephone Skills: 1 year.

19. Customer Service: 1 year.

20. Must have Transportation.

21. Observe regulations on time card use and reporting

22. Maintain attendance as per policy

23. Maintain a clean and safe work area.

24. Observe general Safety/Employee Health policies and procedures including Fire regulations.

25. Maintain a current annual health screening.

26. Display clearly visible identification.

27. Ability to work well with others in a professional and team-oriented environment.

28. Well-developed interpersonal skills, friendly personality and able to motivate staff by promoting          teamwork.

29. Ability to relate to the public regardless of ethnic, religion and economic status.

30. Excellent communication skills.

31. Willingness to travel.

32. Strong planning and organizational skills.

33. Problem analysis and critical thinking skills.

34. Excellent customer service skills.

35. Knowledge of the following (but not limited to), preferred:

My Health LA                     PPO's                                  HMO's

Medicare                            Family PACT                     CPSP         

Medi-Cal                             Fee-for-Service                 CHDP

           Managed Care Plans       Every Woman Counts

36. Must maintain patient confidentiality in accordance with clinic policy and HIPPA guidelines.

Min (For Export)22.00Max (For Export)22.00Employment Type: FULL_TIME

Apply