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Telephone Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

The position of the Telephone/PBX Operator requires an ability to provide superior guest service in a fast-paced, upscale environment. Hourly Wage: $20.32 Benefits we provide: * Employee discounts on ...

Underground Utilities Operator - Telecom

Bemidji, MN ยท On-site

$18 - $25/hr

Carlson, a veteran of the telephone industry with more than 30 years of experience. The company was ... We are hiring Operators to join our seasonal underground telecom construction crews. Positions ...

Underground Utilities Operator - Telecom

Bemidji, MN ยท On-site

$21.75 - $27.75/hr

Carlson, a veteran of the telephone industry with more than 30 years of experience. The company was ... We are hiring Operators to join our seasonal underground telecom construction crews. Positions ...

Mill Operator

Delano, MN ยท On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

Trelleborg Medical Solutions is seeking a Mill Operator to join their team. The primary role is ... and by telephone; use hands repetitively to finger, handle, feel or operate standard office ...

Mill Operator

Delano, MN ยท On-site

$18 - $21.50/hr

Trelleborg Medical Solutions is seeking a Mill Operator to join their team. The primary role is ... and by telephone; use hands repetitively to finger, handle, feel or operate standard office ...

Switchboard Operator

New Hope, MN ยท On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Major Job functions of the Switchboard Operator include operating main telephone systems including answering calls on a 15-line phone system; transferring calls to appropriate personnel; overhead ...

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Telephone Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$8

$17

$24

How much do telephone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for telephone operator in Minnesota is $17.49, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.29 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a telephone operator do?

A Telephone Operator is responsible for answering, connecting, and transferring telephone calls in organizations such as businesses, hotels, or call centers. They provide information, route calls to the appropriate departments or individuals, and may also handle emergency calls or provide directory assistance. Telephone Operators often use computerized switchboards or telephony systems to manage multiple lines efficiently. Good communication skills, patience, and the ability to handle high call volumes are essential in this role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a telephone operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Telephone Operator, you need excellent verbal communication skills, attention to detail, and a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with multi-line phone systems, call routing software, and office communication tools is typically required. Strong customer service orientation, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are important soft skills for this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring efficient call management and delivering a positive experience to callers.

How does a telephone operator typically handle high call volumes during peak periods?

During peak periods, Telephone Operators often rely on established call-handling procedures and multitasking skills to manage high call volumes efficiently. They may use automated call distribution systems to queue and route calls, prioritize urgent requests, and maintain clear communication with team members to ensure prompt responses. Staying calm under pressure and adhering to scripts or guidelines helps operators provide consistent, courteous service even during busy times. Teamwork and communication with supervisors are also essential to address any technical or customer service challenges that may arise.

What is the difference between Telephone Operator vs Customer Service Representative?

AspectTelephone OperatorCustomer Service Representative
Primary RoleConnect calls, handle switchboard operations, direct calls within organizationsAssist customers, handle inquiries, resolve issues related to products or services
Work EnvironmentSwitchboards, front desks, office settingsCall centers, retail, online support, office environments
Required SkillsCommunication, multitasking, basic technical knowledgeCommunication, problem-solving, product knowledge
Common CertificationsNone typically required, some technical trainingCustomer service certifications often preferred

While both roles involve communication and customer interaction, Telephone Operators primarily manage call connections within organizations, whereas Customer Service Representatives focus on assisting customers with products or services. The roles often overlap in communication skills but differ in scope and environment.

How much did telephone operators make?

Telephone operators typically earned a median annual wage of around $35,000 to $45,000 in recent years. Wages varied based on experience, location, and the complexity of the calls handled, with some operators earning higher salaries in urban areas or with specialized skills.

How to become a telephone operator?

To become a telephone operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and strong communication skills. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with telephone systems and customer service is beneficial; some positions may require basic computer skills.

What is the role of a telephone operator?

A telephone operator is responsible for connecting calls, assisting callers, and managing communication systems in organizations or telephone exchanges. They often use switchboards or automated systems and require good communication and technical skills to handle inquiries efficiently.

What are the most commonly searched types of Telephone Operator jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Telephone Operator jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Telephone Operator jobs in Minnesota?

For Telephone Operator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Telephone Operator jobs in Minnesota look for?

The top searched job categories for Telephone Operator jobs in Minnesota are:

What cities in Minnesota are hiring for Telephone Operator jobs?

Cities in Minnesota with the most Telephone Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Telephone Operator jobs in MN?

For Telephone Operator jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Telephone Operator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 46% Full Time, 50% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,383 per year, or $17.5 per hour.

Telephone Operator

Minneapolis, MN โ€ข On-site

$39K/yr

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

The Telephone Operator is located at the Minneapolis VA Health Care System (MVAHCS), within the Patient Experience Office. The service provides 24/7 coverage for both telephones and security services. The primary purpose of the position is to process incoming calls and other alarms.Qualifications:To qualify for this position, applicants must meet all requirements by the closing date of this announcement, 08/31/2026.
You may qualify based on your experience and/or education as described below:
  • General Experience: Applicants must possess at least one (1) year of general experience with duties related to the position. General experience is clerical, office, or other work that indicates the ability to acquire the particular knowledge and skills needed to perform the duties of the position such as but is not limited to: customer service, receptionist duties, receiving and directing a variety of inquiries, and providing immediate communications throughout the medical center. OR
  • Education: Applicants may substitute education for the required experience. To qualify based on education for this grade level you must have two (2) years of education above high school. (TRANSCRIPTS REQUIRED). OR
  • Combination: Applicants may also combine education and experience to qualify at this level. You must have an equivalent combination of experience and education to qualify for the Telephone Operator position. Example: The position to be filled is a Payroll Clerk, GS-04. An applicant has 8 months of qualifying experience and 20 semester hours of college. The applicant meets 67 percent of the required experience and 33 percent of the required education. The applicant meets 100 percent of the total requirements and is qualified for the position. (TRANSCRIPTS REQUIRED).

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religions; spiritual; community; student; social). Volunteer work helps build critical competencies, knowledge, and skills and can provide valuable training and experience that translates directly to paid employment. You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.
Note: A full year of work is considered to be 35-40 hours of work per week. Part-time experience will be credited on the basis of time actually spent in appropriate activities. Applicants wishing to receive credit for such experience must indicate clearly the nature of their duties and responsibilities in each position and the number of hours a week spent in such employment.
For more information on these qualification standards, please visit the United States Office of Personnel Management's website at https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/.
Physical Requirements: The work ls usually sedentary but may involve some standing and walking to consult directories and manuals.You will be asked to participate in a pre-employment examination or evaluation as part of the pre-employment process for this position. Questions about physical demands or environmental factors may be addressed at the time of evaluation or examination.
Working Conditions: The work is normally performed in a well-lighted, temperature-controlled room. Normal safety precautions are required.Education:A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER