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Switchboard Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

HealthPartners

Switchboard Operator

Saint Louis Park, MN · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Methodist Hospital is looking to hire a Switchboard Operator to join our switchboard team! Come join us as a Partner for Good and help us make an impact on the care and experience that our patients ...

Highland Hospital

Switchboard Operator

Rochester, NY · On-site

$17.50 - $22.60/hr

Highland Hospital is seeking an experienced Switchboard Operator to join the team. This position answers the main line to Highland Hospital and directs all incoming calls. Hours are Saturday & Sunday ...

HealthPartners

Switchboard Operator

Saint Louis Park, MN

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Methodist Hospital is looking to hire a Switchboard Operator to join our switchboard team! Come join us as a Partner for Good and help us make an impact on the care and experience that our patients ...

Laredo Medical Center

Switchboard Operator

Laredo, TX

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Job Summary The Switchboard Operator is responsible for managing incoming and outgoing calls, providing routine information, and dispatching calls to the appropriate departments, personnel, or ...

New

Maine Medical Center

Switchboard Operator

Brunswick, ME · On-site

$18.36 - $21.31/hr

The Switchboard Operator role is responsible for prompt and efficient telephone communications between persons outside and/or within the organization, providing paging announcements by utilizing the ...

Flowers Hospital

Switchboard Operator

Dothan, AL

$13.75 - $17.25/hr

Job Summary The Switchboard Operator is responsible for managing incoming and outgoing calls, providing routine information, and dispatching calls to the appropriate departments, personnel, or ...

Larkin Community Hospital

Switchboard Operator - PD

Miami, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

The Switchboard Operator plays a critical role in managing and directing incoming and outgoing telephone communications within an organization. This position ensures that all calls are efficiently ...

Laredo Medical Center

Switchboard Operator

Laredo, TX

$13.25 - $16.75/hr

Job Summary The Switchboard Operator is responsible for managing incoming and outgoing calls, providing routine information, and dispatching calls to the appropriate departments, personnel, or ...

New

Baldwin Health

Switchboard Operator

Foley, AL

$12.75 - $16.25/hr

Job Summary The Switchboard Operator is responsible for managing incoming and outgoing calls, providing routine information, and dispatching calls to the appropriate departments, personnel, or ...

Larkin Community Hospital

Switchboard Operator - PD

Miami, FL · On-site

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

The Switchboard Operator plays a critical role in managing and directing incoming and outgoing telephone communications within an organization. This position ensures that all calls are efficiently ...

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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.
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Switchboard Operator jobs near you
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

FirstHealth of the Carolinas, Inc.

Pinehurst, NC • On-site

$12.25 - $15.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

FirstHealth of the Carolinas rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

306th of 889 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Overview

Efficiently manages incoming telephone communications via the switchboard, including the prompt handling of emergency codes and alarm systems. Provides critical support services to FirstHealth physicians and staff through overhead paging and the beeper system, ensuring timely and accurate message delivery across departments. Plays a key role in maintaining smooth operational flow and rapid response capabilities within the healthcare environment.

Responsibilities

  • Answer incoming telephone calls via the switchboard system

  • Respond promptly to emergency codes and alarm notifications

  • Provide overhead paging services for FirstHealth physicians and staff

  • Operate and manage the beeper system to ensure timely communication

  • Maintain accurate and efficient message relay across departments

  • Support hospital operations by facilitating internal communications

Qualifications

High School diploma or GED.  Prefer one to two years as a switchboard operator, receptionist or clerk that has worked with the public.

Employment Type: FULL_TIME

What FirstHealth of the Carolinas employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

FirstHealth logo

About FirstHealth

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

FirstHealth of the Carolinas is a private, Not for Profit Health care Network Headquartered in Pinehurst, NC. Its 6,100 Employees serve 15 counties in the mid Carolinas. Licensed for four hospitals with 610 beds, FirstHealth demonstrates a commitment to treating the whole patient and providing Quality Health care for the entire Community especially those in need. FirstHealth’s organizational culture is guided by its Core Purpose and Core Values and is committed to Patient Safety, Quality and Performance Excellence.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Pinehurst, NC, US

Year founded

1995

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