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Switchboard Operators Jobs (NOW HIRING)

SWITCHBOARD OPERATOR

Decatur, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $24.82/hr

Shift 1:00pm - 9:30pm with every other weekend rotation Switchboard Operators are responsible for answering incoming calls to all 5 hospital and determining the appropriate resolution. The Operator ...

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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Overview Shift 1:00pm - 9:30pm with every other weekend rotation Switchboard Operators are responsible for answering incoming calls to all 5 hospital and determining the appropriate resolution. The ...

Switchboard Operator

Troy, AL · On-site

$14 - $17.75/hr

Posting Details Position Information Posting Number SF2468P Position Title Switchboard Operator Position Type Classified Staff/Hourly Department Telecommunications - Troy Division Finance and ...

SWITCHBOARD OPERATOR

Decatur, IL · On-site

$16.50 - $24.82/hr

Overview Shift 1:00pm - 9:30pm with every other weekend rotation Switchboard Operators are responsible for answering incoming calls to all 5 hospital and determining the appropriate resolution. The ...

Switchboard Operator

Duluth, GA · On-site

$30K - $35K/yr

Switchboard Operator An established corporate legal service company, located in Duluth, Georgia, is seeking a Switchboard Operator. We are looking for a candidate who is interested in long-term ...

Switchboard Operator

Erie, PA · On-site

$14.50 - $18.50/hr

Under the direction of the VA Supervisor, the Switchboard Operator is expected to provide efficient, courteous and outstanding customer service to the callers of the Erie VA hospital. Shift times may ...

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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 ...

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Switchboard Operators information

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How much do switchboard operators jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 4, 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.
More about Switchboard Operators jobs
What cities are hiring for Switchboard Operators jobs? Cities with the most Switchboard Operators job openings:
What states have the most Switchboard Operators jobs? States with the most job openings for Switchboard Operators jobs include:
Infographic showing various Switchboard Operators job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,841 per year, or $16.8 per hour.
SWITCHBOARD OPERATOR

SWITCHBOARD OPERATOR

Memorial Health

Decatur, IL • On-site

$16.50 - $24.82/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago


Memorial Health rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 173 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

444th of 877 rated healthcare providers


Job description

USD $16.50/Hr.
USD $24.82/Hr.

Shift 1:00pm - 9:30pm with every other weekend rotation

Switchboard Operators are responsible for answering incoming calls to all 5 hospital and determining the appropriate resolution.  The Operator responds to all internal and external switchboard calls in a timely, courteous and positive manner; forward calls appropriately, contacts requested physicians and staff and communicates messages; responsible for monitoring a variety of alarm systems; notifies outside public agencies of messages, alarms, codes, emergencies as per policies/procedures; provides answering service to a variety of agencies after hours and on weekends; completes all other duties under the direction of the Manager, Call Center. 

Embodies the Memorial Health System Performance Excellence Standards of Safety, Courtesy, Quality, and Efficiency that support our mission, vision and values.


Education:

  • High School diploma required. 

Experience:

  • Experience in telephone operations, communications, Call Center, customer service or related environment required. Ability to multitask in a fast pace environment. Proficient working with technology and possess a problem solving aptitude.

Other Knowledge/Skills/Abilities:

  • Exceptional customer service, active listening, and verbal and written communication skills, professional demeanor.
  • Knowledge of all tasks performed in the Call Center necessary to provide optimum internal and external customer satisfaction and provide the opportunity for one call resolution. 
  • Demonstrates superior patient relations and interpersonal skills; Requires ability to work with diverse people and deal effectively with angry and/or upset customers
  • Working knowledge of computers is required, with the ability to enter and retrieve data, and electronically notate 1 call software, and other required applications/systems. Must be able to use a multi-function phone system.
  • Must demonstrate detail orientation, critical thinking, and problem solving ability. Process calls according to given situation.
  • Must demonstrate excellent oral and written communication and customer service skills, with ability to maintain a calm and professional demeanor in high stress situations.
  • Demonstrated ability to remain flexible, and consistently exercise sound judgment and initiative in very stressful situations.
  • Ability to effectively manage competing priorities and work independently in a rapidly changing environment.

  1. Answers incoming calls for all 5 Memorial Health System (MHS) hospitals, Decatur Memorial, Jacksonville Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Springfield Memorial and Taylorville Memorial.
  1. After hour answering service for approximately 25 physicians/departments. Correctly following established protocols and procedures for each account.
  1. Acknowledge and appropriately respond to Emergent Parking Lot Polls, Elevator phones, engineering panels which includes fire, panic alarms, and generator testing.
  1. Able to correctly answer, dispatch, monitor, and track emergent codes and rapids.
  1. Completes all steps of surgery/trauma activations for after-hours emergency call in teams; verifies patient identity information through appropriate tools. Identifies appropriate on call team based on policy and procedures.  Facilitates appropriate tracking on all teams
  1. Coordinate with departments, funeral homes, and security to efficiently transfer the release of remains, according to established protocol.
  1. Enter and/or change on call schedules as needed.
  1. Act as a resource for colleagues and lead by example.
  1. Demonstrates an ability to be flexible, organized and function well in stressful situations.
  1. Knowledge of hospital, department policies and procedures related to Call Center.
  1. Communicates effectively with callers and colleagues with attention to detail and problem solving aptitude.
  1. Responsible for all overhead paging including request from security, engineering and other departments.
  1. Embodies the Memorial Health System Performance Excellence Standards of Safety, Courtesy, Quality, and Efficiency that support our mission, vision and values:
  • SAFETY: Prevent Harm - I put safety first in everything I do.  I take action to ensure the safety of others.
  • COURTESY: Serve Others - I treat others with dignity and respect.  I project a professional image and positive attitude.
  • QUALITY: Improve Outcomes - I continually advance my knowledge, skills and performance.  I work with others to achieve superior results.
  • EFFICIENCY: Reduce Waste - I use time and resources wisely.  I prevent defects and delays.

The intent of this job description is to provide a representative summary of the major duties and responsibilities performed by incumbents of this job.  Incumbents may be requested to perform tasks other than those specifically presented in this description.


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