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Switchboard Operators Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

UHS

RECEPTIONIST

Washington, DC · On-site

Answer and disseminate all incoming calls on the switchboard in a professional and courteous manner ... Operating acute care inpatient facilities, behavioral health inpatient facilities, outpatient ...

Universal Health Services

RECEPTIONIST

Washington, DC · On-site

$17 - $21.75/hr

Answer and disseminate all incoming calls on the switchboard in a professional and courteous manner ... Operating acute care inpatient facilities, behavioral health inpatient facilities, outpatient ...

Alan B. Miller Medical Center

RECEPTIONIST

Washington, DC · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Answer and disseminate all incoming calls on the switchboard in a professional and courteous manner ... Operating acute care inpatient facilities, behavioral health inpatient facilities, outpatient ...

Wellington Regional Medical Center

RECEPTIONIST

Washington, DC · On-site

$17.75 - $23.50/hr

Answer and disseminate all incoming calls on the switchboard in a professional and courteous manner ... Operating acute care inpatient facilities, behavioral health inpatient facilities, outpatient ...

Bioqual

Security Guard

Rockville, MD · On-site

$16.25 - $20/hr

Monitor the switchboard overnight. * Consistently adhere to all safety procedures and standard operating procedures which are essential for successful operation of a facility involved with bio ...

Bioqual Inc

Security Guard

Rockville, MD · On-site

Monitor the switchboard overnight. * Consistently adhere to all safety procedures and standard operating procedures which are essential for successful operation of a facility involved with bio ...

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Bioqual Inc

Security Guard

Rockville, MD · On-site

Monitor the switchboard overnight. * Consistently adhere to all safety procedures and standard operating procedures which are essential for successful operation of a facility involved with bio ...

Apply Early

Sonic

Crew Member

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

You'll work Fountain & Frozen, Food Production, Grill, Fryer, Switchboard and, if applicable, Drive ... Preparing food orders, cooking on the grill, operating the fry station as needed * Cleaning the ...

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Marriott

Assistant Front Desk Manager

Vienna, VA · On-site

$28.35 - $31.25/hr

Front office areas include Bell/Door Staff, Switchboard and Guest Services/Front Desk. Strives to ensure guest and employee satisfaction and achieve the operating budget. Assists in completing ...

Sonic Drive-In

Crew Member

Manassas, VA · On-site

$11.25 - $14.75/hr

You'll work Fountain & Frozen, Food Production, Grill, Fryer, Switchboard and, if applicable, Drive ... on the grill, operating the fry station as needed • Cleaning the drive-in restaurants ...

Sonic

Crew Member

Manassas, VA · On-site

$11.50 - $15/hr

You'll work Fountain & Frozen, Food Production, Grill, Fryer, Switchboard and, if applicable, Drive ... Preparing food orders, cooking on the grill, operating the fry station as needed * Cleaning the ...

New

Marriott

Assistant Front Desk Manager

Vienna, VA · On-site

$17.50 - $22/hr

Front office areas include Bell/Door Staff, Switchboard and Guest Services/Front Desk. Strives to ensure guest and employee satisfaction and achieve the operating budget. Assists in completing ...

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Switchboard Operators information

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$10

$18

$27

How much do switchboard operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for switchboard operators 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.

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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What cities in Washington are hiring for Switchboard Operators jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Switchboard Operators job openings:
Switchboard Operators jobs near you
Infographic showing various Switchboard Operators job openings in Washington as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, and 44% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,461 per year, or $19 per hour.
Telephone Assistant

Telephone Assistant

University of Maryland Medical System

Glen Burnie, MD

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Job Requirements

General Summary

Serves as Telephone Assistant in the Telecommunications Department and as such is responsible for providing direct customer service to physicians and in-patient and out-patients with knowledge of practices used in the operation of the telephone switchboard. Employees in this classification may be assigned to day, evening, night or rotating shifts, which include weekends, and holidays. Employee may be subject to call-in.

 Mission

All employees are responsible for extending the mission and values of Baltimore Washington Medical Center by dedicating oneself to providing the highest quality healthcare services to the communities we serve.

 Reporting Relationships

This position reports directly to the Manager, Telecommunications.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent required. Must be able to type as least 25 words per minute and have strong oral communication skills. Knowledge of correct business English skills is essential. Needs strong organizational skills and the ability to work without extensive supervision.

 Working Conditions

Potential for exposure minimal to communicable diseases and hazardous materials, requiring the observance of Standard Precautions and safe handling practices. This position has been classified as low or no exposure risk and does not require the completion of an annual testing, but may require "just in time" testing if the need arises.

 Principal Responsibilities and Tasks

I.       The following statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all job duties performed by personnel so classified.

 1.      Monitors alarms for security, laboratory, pharmacy, maintenance, and facilities.


Work Experience

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

 1.    Proficient knowledge of operating a telephone switchboard, customer service skills.

 2.    Ability to follow department protocol when answering phones, and the ability to always speak calmly and clearly.

 3.    Highly effective verbal communication skills are essential to communicate with the public, patients, and Team Members in this customer service position.

 4.    Highly effective interpersonal skills are required to work with the public and staff, and ability to pay close attention to detail to relay accurate messages of significant importance.

 5.   Highly effective verbal communication skills including courtesy, resourcefulness and efficiency in answering questions, giving directions, locating staff and explaining hospital/departmental policies and procedures are necessary. Verbal communication skills may include communicating with an interdisciplinary team, patients, and families. Effective writing skills are also required in order to take messages and maintain miscellaneous records, receipts, reports and logs.     


Employment Type: OTHER

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