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Switchboard Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Switchboard Operator

Manassas, VA · On-site

$16 - $21.65/hr

Switchboard Operator Job Code: TE5588 Schedule: 22 hours weekly; Sunday 2-8pm, Tuesday and Wednesday: 3pm - 11pm ABOUT US We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is ...

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

Customer Experience Strategist

Washington, DC · On-site

$111K/yr

Switchboard prides itself on being an exceptional and trustworthy partner to our customers, which means this role requires regular evening and weekend on call shifts. What We Are Looking For As a ...

Switchboard PBX Operator

Reston, VA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.10/hr

Jump-start your career as a(an) Switchboard PBX Operator today with Reston Hospital Center. Job Summary and Qualifications As our Switchboard PBX Operator you will answer and route correctly all ...

Communications Operator

Washington, DC · On-site

$18.40 - $29.74/hr

About the Job General Summary of Position Operates hospital switchboard provides visitors and callers appropriate routine information and providing telephone communication service regarding the ...

RECEPTIONIST

Washington, DC · On-site

$16.50 - $21/hr

Answer and disseminate all incoming calls on the switchboard in a professional and courteous manner in a timely fashion. * Provide clerical support to the Intake team * Assists with various clerical ...

Cashier

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$11.50 - $15.50/hr

Switchboard operating * Ability to handle multiple tasks at once REQUIREMENTS: * Computer Skills must be A+-proficiency in Excel and customer database interfaces. * Superior customer service skills

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Switchboard information

See Washington salary details

$10

$18

$27

How much do switchboard jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for switchboard 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.

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.

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.
Infographic showing various Switchboard job openings in Washington as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 51% Part Time, and 49% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $39,461 per year, or $19 per hour.

Switchboard Operator

UVA Health

Manassas, VA • On-site

$16 - $21.65/hr

Other

Re-posted 6 days ago


UVA Health rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 184 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

376th of 885 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Switchboard OperatorJob Code: TE5588 

Schedule: 22 hours weekly; Sunday 2-8pm, Tuesday and Wednesday: 3pm - 11pm

 ABOUT US

We are ushering in a new era of healthcare where achieving good health is just the beginning. At UVA Community Health, part of the world-class UVA Health academic health system, we are committed to caring for the whole person by building meaningful connections with our patients in the local setting of UVA Health's community hospitals, outpatient locations, and provider offices. By combining our team's talent and expertise, the breadth of capabilities across the entire UVA Health system, and our dedication to community wellness, we are bringing expert care close to home. As a member of the UVA Community Health team, individuals contribute to patient care decisions, support advanced medical technologies, and experience the satisfaction of making a difference in people's lives every day.
 

JOB TYPE

Classification: Non Exempt

Supervises Positions:

JOB SUMMARY

Operates computerized switchboard console, monitors fire panel, and implements all emergency procedures.

QUALIFICATIONS

Education: High School Diploma or GED required.

Experience: Minimum of 1 year of experience as switchboard operator preferred. Refer to the Life Support Training Policy for additional details.

Licensure: N/A

Additional Skills/Requirements Required: Must be able to communicate effectively with people of diverse backgrounds and all levels of authority. Ability to maintain confidentiality. Must be flexible and able to respond to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment. Manual dexterity necessary to operate computerized switchboard console and keyboard. Ability to work alone during day, evening, and night. Ability to see and read. Must possess a clear, pleasant, and professional telephone voice and manner. Ability to hear and understand phone calls.

Additional Skills/Requirements Preferred: N/A

Competencies

  • Communication: Communicates effectively with people of diverse backgrounds and all levels of authority.
    • Provides communication and updates to patients and guests and ensures their needs are being met, when applicable.
    • Responds quickly and properly to irregular and emergency situations.

The incumbent may be asked to perform additional duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

Physical Demand Code: Medium to Heavy Physical Demand: The job requires constant standing, frequently walking, and bending/stooping. Proficient communicative, auditory, and visual skills. Attention to detail and ability to write legibly. Ability to lift/push/pull 100 lbs. For any weight over 35 lbs., use Safe Handling Equipment. This job description may not include all assigned duties, responsibilities, or aspects of the job described. It may be amended at any time at the sole discretion of UVA Community Health.

OTHER
  • May require the use of safety equipment, such as HEPA mask, for infection prevention: Yes

  • On call responsibilities as directed: Yes

  • Ability to travel between campus buildings, remote facilities, and out of town as needed: No

The base compensation range for this role is $16.00 - $21.65 hourly.
 

Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate's qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education.  Please note that the pay range does not include any applicable incentive compensation programs such as shift differentials, clinical ladders, and other incentives that may be available for those in eligible positions.
 


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