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Phone Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Marriott

Telephone Operator

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $21.75/hr

POSITION SUMMARY Answer, record, log, and process all guest calls, requests, questions, or concerns. Operate telephone switchboard station. Process guest requests for wake-up calls, screening calls ...

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Phone Operator information

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How much do phone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 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:

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

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What cities in California are hiring for Phone Operator jobs?

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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, 81% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,661 per year, or $17.6 per hour.

Telephone Operator / Switchboard Operator (7:00am-3:00pm) Shift

Innovation At Work

Fresno, CA • On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

Innovation At Work, Inc. (IAW) is seeking professional Telephone Operators/Switchboard Operators to provide 24-hour telephone communication services for the VA Central California Health Care System in Fresno, California.
The Telephone Operator serves as the primary point of contact for patients, visitors, employees, emergency responders, and outside agencies by answering, routing, and processing incoming telephone calls while maintaining exceptional customer service and ensuring timely response to emergency communications.
This position operates in a fast-paced healthcare environment requiring professionalism, excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm during emergency situations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
  • Answer and process high volumes of incoming telephone calls courteously, professionally, and efficiently.
  • Route incoming calls to the appropriate clinics, departments, providers, and personnel.
  • Operate Cisco telephone consoles, automated call distribution systems, and paging systems.
  • Broadcast emergency overhead pages and emergency notifications.
  • Respond appropriately to emergency alarms, Code Blue, fire alarms, disaster notifications, bomb threats, and other emergency communications.
  • Operate radio communication systems as required.
  • Assist patients, visitors, employees, and outside agencies with telephone assistance and general information.
  • Enter and relay messages through the VA messaging system.
  • Maintain accurate records of telephone equipment malfunctions and service issues.
  • Report telephone system problems to appropriate VA personnel.
  • Maintain confidentiality of patient and employee information in accordance with HIPAA, Privacy Act, and VA regulations.
  • Follow established emergency procedures and communication protocols.
  • Maintain professionalism during periods of heavy call volume and emergency operations.
  • Work collaboratively with VA staff to ensure uninterrupted communication services.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Requirements
Minimum Qualifications
  • High School Diploma or GED.
  • Minimum one (1) year of experience in a telephone operator, switchboard, call center, receptionist, healthcare communications, customer service, or similar environment.
  • Excellent verbal communication and customer service skills.
  • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
  • Ability to operate multiple computer applications simultaneously.
  • Strong attention to detail.
  • Ability to remain calm during emergencies.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain all VA background investigation and credentialing requirements.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous VA or hospital switchboard experience.
  • Experience operating Cisco telephone systems.
  • Experience with automated call distribution (ACD) systems.
  • Experience using overhead paging systems.
  • Medical terminology knowledge.
  • Experience handling emergency communications.

Schedule
  • 24 hours per day
  • 7 days per week
  • Rotating shifts
  • Days, evenings, nights
  • Weekends and holidays required

Apply