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Switchboard Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

UVA Health

Switchboard Operator

Manassas, VA

$15 - $19/hr

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

Lifepoint Health

Switchboard Operator

Danville, VA · On-site

$10/hr

As a Switchboard Operator, you'll support those that are in our facilities who are interfacing and providing care to our patients and community members to positively impact our mission of making ...

Prime Healthcare

Switchboard Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.60 - $24.05/hr

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 ...

Prime Healthcare

Switchboard Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$16.60 - $24.05/hr

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 ...

Samaritanhealth

SWITCHBOARD OPERATOR

Watertown, NY · On-site

$16.45 - $25.50/hr

Previous experience as a switchboard operator or receptionist preferred. * Operates communications console, performs overhead pages, and is the hub for emergency management monitoring and crisis ...

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Switchboard Operator information

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$8

$16

$24

How much do switchboard operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 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 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.

How much did switchboard operators earn?

Switchboard operators' earnings vary by experience and location, but in the United States, the median annual wage was around $30,000 to $40,000 as of recent data. Entry-level operators typically earn less, while experienced operators with specialized skills can earn higher wages, often supplemented by shift differentials or overtime pay.

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 jobs pay $400 an hour?

Jobs that pay $400 an hour are typically highly specialized roles such as senior corporate lawyers, specialized medical surgeons, or top-tier consultants. These positions often require advanced education, extensive experience, and sometimes certification or licensing. Such high-paying roles are rare and usually involve significant responsibility and expertise.

What exactly does a switchboard operator do?

A switchboard operator manages telephone exchanges by connecting calls manually or electronically, often using a switchboard or console. They answer incoming calls, direct callers to the appropriate departments or individuals, and may handle administrative tasks related to communication systems. Strong communication skills and familiarity with telephone equipment are essential for this role.

What jobs pay $2000 a day?

Jobs that can pay $2000 a day typically include high-level roles such as specialized surgeons, corporate executives, or certain consulting and investment banking positions. These roles often require advanced skills, extensive experience, and sometimes certifications, and they may involve long hours or high-pressure environments.

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.
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Switchboard Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Switchboard Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% 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

Switchboard Operator

Turkey Creek Medical Center

Knoxville, TN

$14.25 - $18.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

Job Description 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 providers in a professional and courteous manner. This role also handles paging requests, assists with emergency communications, and ensures accurate and timely information delivery to patients, staff, providers, and external customers.
Essential Functions
  • Answers all incoming calls promptly, greeting callers professionally and courteously, and routes them to the appropriate department or individual based on evaluation of the caller's needs.
  • Carries out paging procedures for employees, providers, rapid response teams, and other essential personnel, including during emergency or disaster situations.
  • Acts as an information hub by providing accurate assistance to patients, employees, and external customers.
  • Transfers calls accurately to the proper extension, ensuring seamless communication for customers and staff.
  • Coordinates communication for emergency codes and disasters, ensuring timely notifications to on-call and rapid response staff as needed.
  • Screens and verifies demographic information, corrects errors as needed, and organizes paperwork accurately, including inpatient documentation for the Business Office.
  • Provides instructions to patients for accessing external operators for long-distance calls and assists with any other general inquiries.
  • Maintains detailed records of all pages, notifications, and calls as required by facility protocols.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.
  • Maintains regular and reliable attendance.
  • Complies with all policies and standards.
Qualifications
  • 0-2 years of experience in customer service, call center, or healthcare setting required
  • 1-2 years of switchboard experience preferred
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Proficient in operating switchboard or telecommunications equipment.
  • Excellent verbal communication and customer service skills.
  • Ability to manage high call volumes in a calm and professional manner.
  • Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.
  • Capable of handling emergency communication processes effectively.
  • Knowledge of hospital policies, codes, and procedures is a plus.
Turkey Creek Medical Center logo

About Turkey Creek Medical Center

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Conveniently located on Parkside Drive in Turkey Creek, Turkey Creek Medical Center offers a range of services in the heart of Knoxville, Tennessee. Our Knoxville hospital features a 24/7 emergency room, ICU, advanced surgical suites, a dedicated heart hospital, cancer care services, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, sleep center, Center for Surgical Weight Loss, digital mammography and much more. The hospital offers private patient rooms, dining on request and free parking. The Tennova Physicians Plaza connects Turkey Creek Medical Center to the new Tennova Surgery Center West. The surgery center offers four, fully equipped operating rooms, two advanced endoscopic suites, and the same quality, professional care you expect from Turkey Creek Medical Center. The enclosed courtyard between the two facilities provides a comfortable, quiet respite for patients and visitors.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

Knoxville, TN, US

Social media

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