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Switchboard Operator Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

UVA Health

Switchboard Operator

Manassas, VA

$16 - $21.65/hr

Switchboard Operator Job Code: TE5588 Schedule: 22 hours weekly; Sunday 2-8pm, Tuesday and Wednesday: 3pm - 11pm ABOUT US We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is ...

UVA Health

Switchboard Operator

Manassas, VA · On-site

$16 - $21.65/hr

Switchboard Operator Job Code: TE5588 Schedule: 18 hours weekly; Sunday 8a-2p, Monday, Tuesday and Friday: 12pm-4pm ABOUT US We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is ...

Reston Hospital Center

Switchboard PBX Operator

Reston, VA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.10/hr

Jump-start your career as a(an) Switchboard PBX Operator today with Reston Hospital Center. Job Summary and Qualifications As our Switchboard PBX Operator you will answer and route correctly all ...

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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 ...

KBR, Inc.

Watch Operator - Intermediate

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$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 ...

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All JobsSwitchboard Operator JobsSwitchboard Operator Jobs in Washington

Switchboard Operator information

See Washington salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do switchboard operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for switchboard operator in Washington is $18.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $20.67 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 Washington? The most popular types of Switchboard Operator jobs in Washington are:
What job categories do people searching Switchboard Operator jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Switchboard Operator jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Switchboard Operator jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Switchboard Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Switchboard Operator jobs in WA? For Switchboard Operator jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Switchboard Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Switchboard Operator job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 43% Full Time, 54% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,461 per year, or $19 per hour.
Switchboard Operator

Switchboard Operator

UVA Health

Manassas, VA

$16 - $21.65/hr

Other

Posted 2 days ago

UVA Health rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 184 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

374th of 890 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Switchboard OperatorJob Code: TE5588 

Schedule: 22 hours weekly; Sunday 2-8pm, Tuesday and Wednesday: 3pm - 11pm

 ABOUT US

We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is just the beginning. At UVA Community Health, part of the world-class UVA Health academic health system, we are committed to caring for the whole person by building meaningful connections with our patients in the local setting of UVA Health's community hospitals, outpatient locations, and provider offices. By combining our team's talent and expertise, the breadth of capabilities across the entire UVA Health system, and our dedication to community wellness, we are bringing expert care close to home. As a member of the UVA Community Health team, individuals contribute to patient care decisions, support advanced medical technologies, and experience the satisfaction of making a difference in people's lives every day.
 

JOB TYPE

Classification: Non Exempt

Supervises Positions:

JOB SUMMARY

Operates computerized switchboard console, monitors fire panel, and implements all emergency procedures.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: High School Diploma or GED required.

Experience: Minimum of 1 year of experience as switchboard operator preferred. Refer to the Life Support Training Policy for additional details.

Licensure: N/A

Additional Skills/Requirements Required: Must be able to communicate effectively with people of diverse backgrounds and all levels of authority. Ability to maintain confidentiality. Must be flexible and able to respond to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment. Manual dexterity necessary to operate computerized switchboard console and keyboard. Ability to work alone during day, evening, and night. Ability to see and read. Must possess a clear, pleasant, and professional telephone voice and manner. Ability to hear and understand phone calls.

Additional Skills/Requirements Preferred: N/A

Competencies

  • Communication: Communicates effectively with people of diverse backgrounds and all levels of authority.
    • Provides communication and updates to patients and guests and ensures their needs are being met, when applicable.
    • Responds quickly and properly to irregular and emergency situations.

The incumbent may be asked to perform additional duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Physical Demand Code: Medium to Heavy Physical Demand: The job requires constant standing, frequently walking, and bending/stooping. Proficient communicative, auditory, and visual skills. Attention to detail and ability to write legibly. Ability to lift/push/pull 100 lbs. For any weight over 35 lbs., use Safe Handling Equipment. This job description may not include all assigned duties, responsibilities, or aspects of the job described. It may be amended at any time at the sole discretion of UVA Community Health.

OTHER

  • May require the use of safety equipment, such as HEPA mask, for infection prevention: Yes

  • On call responsibilities as directed: Yes

  • Ability to travel between campus buildings, remote facilities, and out of town as needed: No

The base compensation range for this role is $16.00 - $21.65 hourly.
 

Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate's qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education.  Please note that the pay range does not include any applicable incentive compensation programs such as shift differentials, clinical ladders, and other incentives that may be available for those in eligible positions.
 

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