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Switchboard Operators Jobs (NOW HIRING)

116508 Innovation At Work

Switchboard Operator

New York, NY · On-site

$16.50 - $20.75/hr

Position Overview Innovation At Work, Inc. is seeking professional and reliable Switchboard Operators to support 24/7 communication operations at the James J. Peters VA Medical Center in Bronx, NY.

Innovation At Work

Switchboard Operator

Bronx, NY · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Position Overview Innovation At Work, Inc. is seeking professional and reliable Switchboard Operators to support 24/7 communication operations at the James J. Peters VA Medical Center in Bronx, NY.

Innovation At Work Inc

Switchboard Operator

Bronx, NY · On-site

$15.75 - $19.75/hr

Description Position Overview Innovation At Work, Inc. is seeking professional and reliable Switchboard Operators to support 24/7 communication operations at the James J. Peters VA Medical Center in ...

Mission Health

Switchboard Operator

New Hope, MN · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

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 ...

Catholic Health

Switchboard Operator-PD

Bethpage, NY · On-site

$27.15/hr

Overview Switchboard Operator Location: St. Joseph Hospital - A Member of Catholic Health Join St. Joseph Hospital , a proud member of Catholic Health, and play a vital role in creating a welcoming ...

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How much do switchboard operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for switchboard operators 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.

How much do switchboard operators make?

Switchboard operators typically earn a median annual wage of around $30,000 to $40,000, depending on experience and location. The job often requires good communication skills and familiarity with telephone systems, with some positions offering shift work or on-call hours.

What is the difference between Switchboard Operators vs Receptionists?

AspectSwitchboard OperatorsReceptionists
CredentialsMinimal; often basic communication skillsHigh school diploma or equivalent; customer service skills
Work EnvironmentCall centers, office buildings, hospitalsFront desk, office reception areas, clinics
Employer & Industry UsageTelecommunications, healthcare, corporate officesCorporate, healthcare, hospitality, educational institutions
Primary DutiesOperate switchboards, direct calls, relay messagesGreet visitors, answer phones, manage appointments

While both roles involve communication and customer interaction, Switchboard Operators primarily handle call routing and switchboard operations, whereas Receptionists focus on greeting visitors and managing front desk activities. Both roles are essential in office environments but serve different functions within communication and customer service.

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 telephone systems, call routing technology, and office software like Microsoft Outlook is typically required. Strong customer service orientation, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills for this role. These skills ensure efficient call management, professional interactions, and seamless information flow within an organization.

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

Switchboard operators often encounter challenges such as managing high call volumes during peak periods, accurately transferring calls under pressure, and addressing callers who may be upset or in a hurry. Effective time management, clear communication, and staying calm under stress are key to handling these situations. Many organizations provide training to help operators develop these skills, and support from experienced team members can also be invaluable. Building familiarity with the organization's departments and frequently used extensions can further streamline call handling and improve overall efficiency.

What are switchboard operators?

Switchboard operators are professionals who manage incoming and outgoing telephone calls for organizations. They operate telephone switchboards or consoles to connect callers to the appropriate department or individual, take messages, and provide information to callers. In addition to handling calls, switchboard operators may also perform administrative tasks such as maintaining directories, scheduling appointments, and assisting with other clerical duties. This role requires strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to multitask efficiently. Switchboard operators often serve as the first point of contact for an organization, making professionalism and a courteous manner essential.

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.

Did switchboard operators make good money?

Switchboard operators historically earned wages that varied based on experience, location, and the employer, with many earning around minimum wage to moderate salaries. The role often required good communication skills and the ability to handle multiple lines, but pay generally declined as technology replaced manual switchboards. Today, the profession is largely obsolete, and salaries are no longer relevant for current job prospects.

Are switchboard operators still a thing?

Switchboard operators were once essential for connecting calls manually in telephone exchanges, but their role has largely been replaced by automated switching systems and digital technology. Today, the job is rare and typically found only in specialized or historical contexts, with most communication handled by automated systems or virtual operators. Some positions may still exist in niche environments or for legacy systems, but they are uncommon.
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Switchboard Operators jobs near you
Infographic showing various Switchboard Operators job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,841 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
Switchboard Operator Supervisor

Switchboard Operator Supervisor

Premier Systems

San Diego, CA

$52K/yr

Other

Posted 22 days ago

Job description

Description

Switchboard Operator Supervisor

San Diego, C

$52,000


CITIZENSHIP REQUIREMENT: US Citizenship

EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS:

The Candidate should possess Bachelors or High School Diploma

MINIMUM REQUIRED SKILLS/EXPERIENCE:

  • The Candidate must have at least two years telephone operating experience, of which one year involved substantial responsibility for placing a variety of special calls (e.g., conference calls, collect calls, appointment calls) over varied circuits or routings or performing information operator work which required a knowledge of organization.
  • The Candidate have one or more year of experience in the supervision, organization, and training of staff. The Project Manager must be experienced in maintaining discipline, devising work methods and assignments, establishing performance requirements, and in arranging work schedules to conform to peak telephone requirements for adequate service.
  • The Candidate must be experienced in maintaining discipline, devising work methods and assignments, establishing performance requirements, and in arranging work schedules to conform to peak telephone requirements for adequate service
  • The Candidate must be able to speak and understand English as a primary language with a high level of comprehension.
  • The Candidate must have the ability to communicate, comprehend, use grammar and pronunciation, and understand instructions, as well as to write legible, is required.

POSITION OVERVIEW

  • The Candidate is responsible for overseeing the switchboard operators in providing twenty-four (24) hours of coverage for telephone switchboard services, seven days a week, including all holidays.
  • The Candidate is responsible for ensuring that all switchboard operators uses M2550 Nortel electronic telephone, provided by the Government, attendant consoles to process incoming and outgoing telephone calls.
  • The Candidate is responsible for providing supervision and training to its personnel. The PM shall not allow new personnel to perform duties alone until he/she has received at least two full weeks, equivalent to (2) 7-days a week, On-The-Job Training (OJT) on each tour of duty.
  • The Candidate shall be available via telephone during regular working hours and after regular working hours for any problems, which may occur. The PM shall respond within one (1) hour after receipt of a call.
  • The Candidate is responsible for providing a daily listing to respond to calls requesting inpatient location information.
  • The Candidate is responsible for recording all foreign/international calls in the Long-Distance Log, including the name of employee, time, number called, and Service.
  • The Candidate shall keep and maintain a computerized file of all inpatients which is accessed by using equipment supplied by the VASDHS. Supporting rosters of patients and VASDHS's employees are available as locator information sources as well.
  • adhere to the guidance, directive received from VASDHS and in accordance with the contract terms and conditions
  • The Candidate shall use the public address system, radio paging, and Motorola two-way radio systems to relay messages, make announcements, and implement various procedures as dictated by the Telecommunications Directives in place at the hospital.

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