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Switchboard Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Prime Healthcare

Switchboard Operator

Chicago, IL

$21.26/hr

Chicago, IL The Switchboard Operator / Receptionist is responsible for answering the switchboard and pages overhead, greets and directs people to the appropriate departments. The Switchboard Operator ...

Prime Healthcare

Switchboard Operator

Chicago, IL · On-site

$17.05 - $24.05/hr

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 ...

Advocate Aurora Health

Switchboard Operator

Elgin, IL · On-site

$18.85 - $28.30/hr

Department: 11597 Advocate Sherman Hospital - Switchboard Status: Part time Benefits Eligible: Yes Hou rs Per Week: 24 Schedule Details/Additional Information: Monday, Friday and every other weekend ...

Rush Copley Medical Center

Switchboard Operator

Aurora, IL · On-site

$17.05 - $23.51/hr

Position Summary: Quickly respond to all emergency systems according to policy and procedure. Operate SPOK, CBX, and Console to relay incoming and outgoing calls. Operate overhead paging system along ...

Veracity

Receptionist & Switchboard

Schaumburg, IL · On-site

$15.50 - $20.50/hr

Receptionist & Switchboard Schaumburg, IL, United States, 60173 06 Months Shift timings: 8:00 AM to 5:00PM (Mon to Fri) Summary: A strong candidate will have Strong Communication Skills, be ...

Ascension

Switchboard Operator

Elk Grove Village, IL

$18.31/hr

Your future role at a glance Location: Elk Grove Village, IL Facility: Ascension Alexian Brothers Department: Telecom Schedule: Rotating shift l Part-time Salary range: $19.22 - $26.01 per hour Life ...

Rush Copley Medical Center

Switchboard Operator

Aurora, IL · On-site

$17.05 - $23.51/hr

Position Summary : Quickly respond to all emergency systems and calls according to policy and procedure. Operate SPOK, CBX, Emergency Code Phone, and Console to relay incoming and outgoing calls.

Ascension

Switchboard Operator

Elk Grove Village, IL · On-site

$19.22 - $26.01/hr

Your future role at a glance Location: Elk Grove Village, IL Facility: Ascension Alexian Brothers Department: Telecom Schedule: Rotating shift l Part-time Salary range: $19.22 - $26.01 per hour How ...

Rush Copley Medical Center

Switchboard Operator

Aurora, IL · On-site

$17.05 - $23.51/hr

Position Summary: Quickly respond to all emergency systems according to policy and procedure. Operate SPOK, CBX, and Console to relay incoming and outgoing calls. Operate overhead paging system along ...

Rush Copley Medical Center

Switchboard Operator

Aurora, IL · On-site

$17.05 - $23.51/hr

Position Summary : Quickly respond to all emergency systems and calls according to policy and procedure. Operate SPOK, CBX, Emergency Code Phone, and Console to relay incoming and outgoing calls.

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All JobsSwitchboard JobsSwitchboard Jobs in Chicago, IL

Switchboard information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$8

$16

$24

How much do switchboard jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for switchboard in Chicago, IL is $16.76, 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.

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 Chicago, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Switchboard jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Switchboard jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Switchboard jobs near you
Infographic showing various Switchboard job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 8% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 15% Part Time, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $34,854 per year, or $16.8 per hour.

Switchboard Operator

Chicago, IL • On-site

Saint Mary of Nazareth Hospital
501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about Saint Mary of Nazareth Hospitalexternal

$21.26/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Overview

Department: Communications

Schedule: Per Diem - Days, 7am-3:30pm, some weekends and holidays

Facility: Saint Mary of Nazareth Hospital

Location: Chicago, IL

Responsibilities

The Switchboard Operator / Receptionist is responsible for answering the switchboard and pages overhead, greets and directs people to the appropriate departments. 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.

Qualifications

EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, TRAINING

1. High School Diploma or Equivalent required.

2. Previous Operator experience preferred.

3. Previous experience in office or receptionist.

4. Effective written, verbal communication, and interpersonal skills.

5. Ability to multi-task, prioritize needs to meet required timelines.

6. Analytical and problem-solving skills.

7. Customer Services experience preferred.

Pay Transparency

Saint Mary of Nazareth Hospital offers competitive compensation and a reasonable compensation estimate for this role is $21.26. The exact starting compensation to be offered will be determined at the time of selecting an applicant for hire, in which a wide range of factors will be considered, including but not limited to, skillset, years of applicable experience, education, credentials and licensure.

The company is dedicated to empowering its staff with a comprehensive, competitive benefits package, allowing them the freedom to customize their benefits to fit their unique needs. Our abundant resources, programs, and voluntary options serve as a foundation for individual growth and well-being. Learn more here: https://www.primehealthcare.com/benefitsthatmattermost/

Employment StatusPer DiemShiftDaysEqual Employment Opportunity

Company is an equal employment opportunity employer. Company prohibits discrimination against any applicant or employee based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (subject to applicable law), disability, military status, genetic information or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. Know Your Rights: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOC_KnowYourRights_screen_reader_10_20.pdf

 Employment Type: CONTRACTOR

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