ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Switchboard Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

KBR

Watch Operator - Intermediate

Springfield, VA

$125K - $153K/yr

Watch Operator - Intermediate Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

KBR

Watch Operator - Intermediate

Chantilly, VA

$125K - $153K/yr

Watch Operator - Intermediate Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team provides high-end engineering and advanced technology solutions to our customers in the ...

E Logic

Admin Support / Receptionist

Arlington, VA · On-site

$19/hr

Secret Clearance is mandatory. * 1-3 years of experience as a receptionist, switchboard operator, or corporate administrative assistant. * High school diploma required (higher education preferred)

Innovation At Work

Call Center Representative

Hampton, VA · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Switchboard Operator Essential Duties & Responsibilities (included but not limited to): The candidate shall possess the ability to operate a switchboard with speed and accuracy. Ability to supervise ...

LewisGale Hospital Alleghany

PBX Operator PRN

Low Moor, VA · On-site

$14.03 - $18.94/hr

GED or High School Diploma * 2 to 5 years' experience switchboard operator/customer service experience is preferred * Medical terminology is a plus Benefits LewisGale Hospital Alleghany, offers a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSwitchboard Operator JobsSwitchboard Operator Jobs in Virginia

Switchboard Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$8

$16

$24

How much do switchboard operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for switchboard operator in Virginia is $16.61, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.28 and $18.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.
More about Switchboard Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Switchboard Operator jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Switchboard Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Switchboard Operator jobs in Virginia? For Switchboard Operator jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Switchboard Operator jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Switchboard Operator jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Switchboard Operator jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Switchboard Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Switchboard Operator jobs in VA? For Switchboard Operator jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Switchboard Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Switchboard Operator job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,542 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Full-Time Switchboard Operator (3:00 PM - 11:00 PM Shift)

Innovation At Work

Salem, VA • On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

Innovation At Work, Inc. (IAW) is seeking reliable and professional Part-Time Switchboard Operators to support evening telephone operations at the Salem VA Medical Center in Salem, Virginia.
This position is responsible for answering and routing incoming calls, assisting callers, operating multi-line telephone systems, supporting overhead paging functions, and maintaining professional communication support for hospital staff, patients, visitors, and emergency personnel.
This role primarily supports the evening shift from 3:00 PM to 11:00 PM and includes rotational weekend and holiday coverage, as well as fill-in coverage for staffing shortages, leave coverage, and operational needs.
Operators must demonstrate professionalism, attention to detail, strong customer service skills, and the ability to remain calm and effective in a fast-paced healthcare environment.
Requirements
Required Qualifications
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Minimum of one (1) year of experience in a switchboard, receptionist, call center, healthcare communications, customer service, or related environment
  • Strong communication and telephone etiquette skills
  • Ability to handle multiple calls and tasks simultaneously
  • Basic computer and data entry skills
  • Ability to maintain professionalism during emergency or high-volume situations
  • Strong attendance and reliability required
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
Schedule Requirements
  • Primary shift:
    • 3:00 PM - 11:00 PM
  • Rotating weekends and holidays required
  • Must be available for fill-in coverage as needed
  • Part-time position
Preferred Qualifications
  • Previous hospital or medical switchboard experience preferred
  • Experience with multi-line telephone systems and overhead paging systems preferred
  • Prior federal contract or VA experience is a plus

Apply