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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 ...

HV Global Group, Inc.

Telephone Operator

Escondido, CA · On-site

$22/hr

Hourly Rate: $22.00 JOB SUMMARY Answer, record, log, and process all guest calls, requests, questions, or concerns. Operate telephone switchboard station. Process guest requests for wake up calls ...

County of Los Angeles

TELEPHONE OPERATOR

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$52K/yr

Experience operating SPOK Automatic Call Distribution-Interactive Voice Response Call Center ... Tanisha Buggs, Exam Analyst (213) 288-7000 tbuggs@dhs.lacounty.gov CALIFORNIA RELAY SERVICES PHONE ...

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Phone Operator information

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$9

$17

$24

How much do phone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 12, 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?

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What cities in California are hiring for Phone Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Phone Operator job openings:

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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, 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.

Telephone Operator / Switchboard Operator (3:00 PM-11:00 PM)

Palo Alto, CA • On-site

Innovation At Work Inc
See more jobs at Innovation At Work Incexternal

$19 - $23.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 11 days ago

Job description

Description

Innovation At Work, Inc. (IAW) is seeking professional and customer-focused Telephone Operators/Switchboard Operators to support the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Miami, Florida. The Telephone Operator is responsible for providing continuous telephone communications support by answering and routing incoming calls, processing emergency notifications, operating switchboard equipment, and delivering exceptional customer service to patients, visitors, and VA staff.

The selected candidate will:

  • Answer and process incoming internal and external telephone calls in a courteous and professional manner.
  • Route calls accurately to the appropriate departments, clinics, physicians, and administrative personnel.
  • Operate computerized telephone systems, switchboard equipment, and associated communications systems.
  • Process emergency calls, overhead paging announcements, and emergency code notifications in accordance with VA procedures.
  • Assist patients, visitors, and employees by providing accurate information and telephone assistance.
  • Maintain confidentiality and comply with all HIPAA, VA, and company policies.
  • Report communications equipment malfunctions and assist with maintaining operational continuity.
  • Perform additional telephone operator duties as assigned.
  • Work rotating shifts to ensure uninterrupted 24-hour, 7-day-a-week coverage, including weekends and Federal holidays.

Requirements

Applicants should possess the following qualifications:

  • High School Diploma or GED required.
  • Minimum one (1) year of experience in a switchboard, call center, receptionist, customer service, or healthcare communications environment preferred.
  • Excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Strong customer service and telephone etiquette.
  • Ability to multitask while handling a high volume of incoming calls.
  • Basic computer proficiency and ability to learn computerized telephone systems.
  • Ability to remain calm and professional during emergency situations.
  • Ability to work flexible schedules, including days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Must successfully pass all required background investigations, credentialing, and onboarding requirements.
  • Ability to maintain confidentiality and comply with HIPAA and Department of Veterans Affairs policies.
  • Dependable attendance and the ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Apply