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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 ...

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Phone Operator information

See California salary details

$9

$17

$24

How much do phone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 10, 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.

Agency Phone Operator

San Jose, CA • On-site

Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley
51 - 200 employees
Learn more about Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valleyexternal

$19/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

  Job Description: Agency Telephone Operator 

Reports To: Director of Operations 

Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt 

Position Summary: Responsible for answering all incoming or transferred calls and directing them to the appropriate person.  

Duties & Responsibilities:   

  • Answers all incoming and transferred calls and directs them to the appropriate extension, delivers messages as needed, and in general facilitates efficient and clear communication  
  • Recognizes and responds to emergency calls in a calm manner  
  • Checks and responds to voice messages at a fixed interval throughout the day 
  • Greets and provides assistance to clients, staff, customers, vendors, community members etc. in a professional manner  
  • Works closely with Medical Phone Operator to ensure clear and effective communication and facilitation of patient calls  
  • Translates for Spanish speaking phone callers as needed 
  • Attends General staff meetings 
  • Handles incoming and outgoing mail for agency 
  • General office duties to include: copying and faxing 
  • Performs other duties as assigned  

Required Qualifications, Knowledge & Abilities:   

  • High school graduate or equivalent 
  • Certificate in Office Procedures, or similar program 
  • Bi-lingual in Spanish preferred 
  • Excellent verbal communication skills a must  
  • Minimum of 2 years previous experience operating a phone system with a high call volume preferred 
  • Previous experience in a clinical setting will be helpful  
  • Excellent customer service skills a must  
  • Maturity and the ability to multi-task while working in a fast paced environment; flexibility, initiative, and reliability  
  • Knowledge of and ability to relate to the American Indian community and other minority populations  
  • Ability to maintain strict confidentiality   

Physical Requirements: 

· Ability to sit for extensive period of time doing computer work and answering the phone 

· Manual and finger dexterity and eye-hand coordination for computer entry 

· Ability to lift up to 35 pounds 

· Ability to stoop, squat or bend frequently 

· Corrected vision and hearing within normal range to observe and communicate with clients and professional staff 

Working Conditions: 

Will potentially be exposed to all patient elements, including communicable disease and blood borne pathogens. Will be working in a fast paced medical environment. Will need to be able to sit for extended periods of time answering and responding to phone calls. Will need to be able to walk, stoop, bend and lift up to 35 lbs as needed. Working hours will be from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm with a one hour break. Will need to be flexible in performing tasks with limited discretion in making judgment decisions.  

Preference is given to qualified American Indian/Alaskan Natives in accordance with the American Indian Preference Act (Title 25, U.S. Code Section 472, 473 and 473a). In other than above, the Indian Health Center of Santa Clara Valley, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer including minorities, women, disabled and veterans..