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Switchboard Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Switchboard Operator

Mount Clemens, MI · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Under the general direction of the Supervisor of Communications, performs the duties of Switchboard Operator. Essential Functions and Responsibilities: * Rapidly and accurately operates a telephone ...

Switchboard Operator

Mount Clemens, MI · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Under the general direction of the Supervisor of Communications, performs the duties of Switchboard Operator. Essential Functions and Responsibilities: * Rapidly and accurately operates a telephone ...

Switchboard Operator

New Hope, MN

$16 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This Switchboard Operator position earns a competitive salary, we also provide comprehensive benefits , including medical, dental, vision, short- and long-term disability, a flexible spending account ...

Switchboard Operator

New Hope, MN · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

This Switchboard Operator position earns a competitive salary, we also provide comprehensive benefits , including medical, dental, vision, short- and long-term disability, a flexible spending account ...

Switchboard Operator

Middletown, CT · On-site

$15.25 - $19.25/hr

Switchboard Operator * Department: Switchboard * Hours: per diem Position Summary Today's Smarter Choice for Care... Middlesex Health is an independent award winning organization. At Middlesex Health ...

Switchboard Operator

Troy, AL · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Posting Details Position Information Posting Number SF2468P Position Title Switchboard Operator Position Type Classified Staff/Hourly Department Telecommunications - Troy Division Finance and ...

Switchboard Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.05 - $24.05/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Switchboard Operator monitors the Hospital alarms and must be aware of the policy and procedures of all hospital emergency codes. Ability to communicate with population served. Qualifications ...

Switchboard Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.05 - $24.05/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Switchboard Operator monitors the Hospital alarms and must be aware of the policy and procedures of all hospital emergency codes. Ability to communicate with population served. EDUCATION ...

Chicago, IL The Switchboard Operator / Receptionist is responsible for answering the switchboard and pages overhead, greets and directs people to the appropriate departments. The Switchboard Operator ...

Switchboard Operator

Chicago, IL

$17.05 - $24.05/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Switchboard Operator monitors the Hospital alarms and must be aware of the policy and procedures of all hospital emergency codes. Ability to communicate with population served. EDUCATION ...

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Switchboard Operator information

See salary details

$8

$16

$24

How much do switchboard operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for switchboard operator in the United States is $16.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a switchboard operator do?

A switchboard operator answers the phone and directs calls at an organization. They are often trained to answer general, company-related questions from incoming callers. Switchboard operators are usually the first point of contact at a sizable corporation and are expected to transfer calls to the appropriate department or individual in a polite and timely manner. A switchboard operator’s primary job description consists of answering and transferring calls, though they may have many other job duties as well. They are trusted with numerous phone lines and extensions and are instructed to keep a detailed record of all incoming and transferred call information. Switchboard operators may be called upon to perform clerical and administrative tasks or even receptionist duties, such as checking in clients for appointments. In hospital settings, switchboard operators are required to learn the use of pager systems to alert doctors of incoming messages. They may also be asked to register patients into facility rooms before an examination. In some cases, switchboard operators are even required to act as emergency first responders and direct urgent medical or safety-related calls to the appropriate party.

What does a switchboard operator do?

A Switchboard Operator is responsible for managing incoming and outgoing calls in an organization, often using a telephone switchboard or computer system. They answer calls, direct them to the appropriate departments or individuals, and may also take messages, provide information, or handle basic customer service inquiries. Switchboard Operators play a key role in ensuring effective communication within businesses, hospitals, hotels, or other institutions. Strong communication skills and the ability to multitask are essential for this position.

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

To thrive as a Switchboard Operator, you need excellent verbal communication skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with multi-line phone systems, call routing software, and office communication tools is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help operators manage high call volumes and diverse inquiries. These abilities ensure efficient communication flow and a positive experience for callers and staff.

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

Switchboard operators often manage a high volume of calls and must handle multiple tasks simultaneously, such as transferring calls, taking messages, and providing information. One common challenge is maintaining focus and composure during busy periods or when dealing with difficult callers. Effective time management, strong communication skills, and familiarity with the organization's directory can help operators respond efficiently. Additionally, teamwork and clear protocols ensure smooth coordination with other departments, making the role more manageable and rewarding.

What is the difference between Switchboard Operator vs Receptionist?

AspectSwitchboard OperatorReceptionist
CredentialsMinimal; often basic communication skillsMinimal; often basic communication skills
Work EnvironmentCall centers, hotels, hospitalsOffice front desks, corporate buildings, clinics
Employer & IndustryTelecommunications, hospitality, healthcareCorporate, healthcare, hospitality

While both roles involve communication and customer service, a Switchboard Operator primarily manages incoming calls and directs them within organizations like hospitals or hotels. A Receptionist handles visitor interactions, administrative tasks, and front desk duties. The roles overlap in communication skills but differ in focus and responsibilities.

Do switchboard operators still exist?

Switchboard operators are now rare and mostly obsolete due to advances in automated telephone systems and digital communication technology. Some may still work in specialized or historical settings, but the role has largely been replaced by automated call routing and modern telephony systems.

What cities are hiring for Switchboard Operator jobs?

Cities with the most Switchboard Operator job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Switchboard Operator jobs?

The most popular types of Switchboard Operator jobs are:

What states have the most Switchboard Operator jobs?

States with the most job openings for Switchboard Operator jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Switchboard Operator jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Switchboard Operator jobs are:

What are popular job titles related to Switchboard Operator jobs?

For Switchboard Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Switchboard Operator job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 39% Full Time, 59% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,841 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Switchboard Operator

McLaren

Mount Clemens, MI • On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Part-time

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

Position Summary:
Under the general direction of the Supervisor of Communications, performs the duties of Switchboard Operator.
Essential Functions and Responsibilities:
  1. Rapidly and accurately operates a telephone switchboard.

  1. Accurately operates overhead paging system.

  1. Calls desired numbers at the requested time.

  1. Operate computer terminal.

  1. Follow proper techniques on overhead paging and computerized paging.

  1. Ability to follow on-call procedures.

7. Performs other related job duties as requested.
Qualifications:
Required:
• High School Diploma or GED
• One year of prior experience in an office environment requiring customer interaction
Preferred:
• One year of prior work experience as a Switchboard Operator

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About McLaren

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

McLaren Group is globally renowned as one of the world’s most illustrious high-technology brands. Since the formation of McLaren Racing in 1963, McLaren has been pioneering and innovating in the competitive world of Formula 1, forging a formidable reputation which has seen the racing team win 20 World Championships and over 180 races. The Group has built on its successful racing expertise and diversified to include a global, high-performance sports car business, McLaren Automotive, and a game-changing technology and innovation business, McLaren Applied. Despite the broadening of the group’s business interests, McLaren’s goal remains singular: we exist to win in everything we do.

Industry

Automobile dealers and manufacturing

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Woking, Surrey, GB

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