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Switchboard Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Conflux Systems

Switchboard Assembler

Pomona, CA · On-site

$19.62/hr

Shift : $18.50/Hr, 4PM - 12:30AM, 3 Months Contract to FTE ($19.62/Hr and Increment for 6 Months) We are seeking a Switchboard Assembler to build and modify electromechanical equipment including ...

PIH Health

Switchboard Operator

Downey, CA

$15.25 - $19.50/hr

Answers all incoming telephone calls, schedules patient appointments, validates eligibility, routes calls to the appropriate employee or provider and takes messages as required. Performs various ...

PIH Health

Switchboard Operator

Downey, CA · On-site

$15.50 - $19.75/hr

Answers all incoming telephone calls, schedules patient appointments, validates eligibility, routes calls to the appropriate employee or provider and takes messages as required. Performs various ...

PIH Health

Switchboard Operator

Downey, CA · On-site

$23 - $29.90/hr

Answers all incoming telephone calls, schedules patient appointments, validates eligibility, routes calls to the appropriate employee or provider and takes messages as required. Performs various ...

LaborMax - Hayward, CA

Be Seen First

Switchboard Operator

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

* Answering calls : Pick up phone lines quickly and greet callers in a polite way. * Transferring calls : Send callers to the correct person, extension, or department using a computer or phone system.

PIH Health

Switchboard Operator

Whittier, CA · On-site

$15.75 - $20/hr

Answers all incoming telephone calls, schedules patient appointments, validates eligibility, routes calls to the appropriate employee or provider and takes messages as required. Performs various ...

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Switchboard information

See California salary details

$8

$16

$24

How much do switchboard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for switchboard in California is $16.53, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.23 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a switchboard operator?

A switchboard operator is a professional responsible for managing telephone communications within an organization or facility. They operate a switchboard or telephone console to route incoming, outgoing, and interoffice calls, providing information and connecting callers to the appropriate departments or individuals. In addition to handling calls, switchboard operators may also perform administrative tasks such as taking messages, paging staff, and maintaining call logs. This role requires excellent communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

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 strong verbal communication skills, attention to detail, and typically a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with telephone systems, computer-based switchboards, and customer relationship management (CRM) software is often required. Excellent interpersonal skills, patience, and the ability to multitask under pressure make someone stand out in this position. These abilities ensure efficient call routing, positive caller experiences, and smooth operation of organizational communications.

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

Switchboard operators often handle a high volume of calls, which can be challenging during peak hours or emergencies. Staying organized, maintaining a calm demeanor, and using efficient note-taking methods can help manage these demands. Operators must also quickly route calls to the correct departments, so strong attention to detail and clear communication skills are essential. Building familiarity with the organization's structure and regularly updating contact information can further streamline the process and reduce errors.

What is the difference between Switchboard vs Receptionist?

AspectSwitchboardReceptionist
Primary RoleManages incoming calls and directs them to appropriate departments or personnelGreets visitors, manages front desk, and handles general administrative tasks
Work EnvironmentCall centers, corporate offices, hospitalsOffice reception areas, corporate front desks
Required SkillsExcellent communication, multitasking, basic technical skillsCustomer service, communication, organizational skills
Common CertificationsNone typically required, but communication or switchboard training can helpCustomer service certifications or administrative training

While both roles involve interaction with visitors and callers, a Switchboard primarily handles incoming calls and directs them efficiently, often in larger organizations or call centers. A Receptionist focuses on greeting visitors, managing appointments, and performing administrative duties at the front desk. Understanding these differences helps organizations assign the right responsibilities and candidates to each role.

Did switchboard operators make good money?

Switchboard operators historically earned wages that varied by location and era, with median pay often comparable to other administrative roles. In recent years, the role has become less common due to technological advances, and pay rates have generally declined or become obsolete. Compensation depended on experience, employer, and the complexity of the switchboard system used.

Is it hard to be a switchboard operator?

Being a switchboard operator involves handling multiple phone lines, often requiring good communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. The job can be physically and mentally demanding, especially during busy periods, but it generally requires basic technical knowledge and customer service skills.

What are popular job titles related to Switchboard jobs in California?

For Switchboard jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Switchboard jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Switchboard jobs in California are:

Switchboard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Switchboard job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 72% Full Time, 23% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $34,385 per year, or $16.5 per hour.

Switchboard Operator Supervisor

Premier Systems

San Diego, CA • On-site

$52K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 27 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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