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Telephone Operator Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

The US Oncology Network

Telephone Operator

Knoxville, TN

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

As a Telephone Operator, you will assist patients and other callers by answering question and/or getting them in touch with the necessary person in a timely manner. Here's what might happen on a ...

The US Oncology Network

Telephone Operator

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

As a Telephone Operator, you will assist patients and other callers by answering question and/or getting them in touch with the necessary person in a timely manner. Here's what might happen on a ...

The Pictsweet Company

Corporate Pilot

Bells, TN

Restricted Radio Telephone Operator Permit * FAA First Class Medical Certificate * Bachelor's Degree preferred The Pictsweet Company is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/V/H Employment Type ...

The Pictsweet Company

Corporate Pilot

Bells, TN · On-site

Restricted Radio Telephone Operator Permit * FAA First Class Medical Certificate * Bachelor's Degree preferred The Pictsweet Company is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/V/H

tsa

Dispatcher-NE_Dispatch (ARC)-508

Memphis, TN

Job Summary Serves as liaison between the Telephone Operators and the Truck Drivers ensuring a timely response to all donor requests for pick-ups; collects, plans, logs, and distributes all pick-up ...

tsa

Dispatcher-NE_Dispatch (ARC)-508

Memphis, TN · On-site

Job Summary Serves as liaison between the Telephone Operators and the Truck Drivers ensuring a timely response to all donor requests for pick-ups; collects, plans, logs, and distributes all pick-up ...

Telephone Electronics Corporation

Technician I

Erin, TN · On-site

... telephone and data wiring * Responsible for the adherence to all standard operating procedures to promote safety of all employees * May be responsible for operating safely and efficiently equipment ...

City of Cookeville

Communications Operator I

Cookeville, TN · On-site

$20.68 - $28.52/hr

The position answers 911 calls and receives and transmits messages by radio and telephone, often ... Communications Operator I Pay Grade: G Department: Police FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Reports To: Shift ...

New

City of Cookeville

Communications Operator I

Cookeville, TN

$41K - $53K/yr

The position answers 911 calls and receives and transmits messages by radio and telephone, often ... Communications Operator I Pay Grade: G Department: Police FLSA Status: Non-Exempt Reports To: Shift ...

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All JobsTelephone Operator JobsTelephone Operator Jobs in Tennessee

Telephone Operator information

See Tennessee salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do telephone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for telephone operator in Tennessee is $16.21, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.18 and $17.69 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What jobs pay 4000 a week without a degree?

A telephone operator typically does not earn $4,000 a week without a degree; most roles in this field pay lower wages. High-paying jobs that can reach this level without a degree often include sales, real estate, or certain skilled trades, but they usually require experience, certifications, or specialized skills. Such earnings are uncommon and often depend on commission, performance, or entrepreneurial efforts.

Do telephone operators exist anymore?

Telephone operators as a traditional role have largely disappeared due to advances in automated switching systems and digital technology. Today, most call routing and customer service functions are handled by automated systems, with some specialized roles remaining in certain industries or for emergency services. The job has become rare and is generally considered obsolete in most regions.

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.

How much does a telephone operator make?

The average salary for a telephone operator in the United States is around $30,000 to $40,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and the employer. Some roles may offer additional benefits or shift differentials, especially in 24/7 customer service environments.

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.

What is the work of a telephone operator?

A telephone operator is responsible for connecting calls, assisting callers with information, and managing communication systems. They often use switchboards or computerized systems and require good communication and problem-solving skills. The role may involve working in a call center environment and following specific procedures for call handling.

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 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Telephone Operator jobs in Tennessee? The most popular types of Telephone Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What are popular job titles related to Telephone Operator jobs in Tennessee? For Telephone Operator jobs in Tennessee, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Telephone Operator jobs in Tennessee look for? The top searched job categories for Telephone Operator jobs in Tennessee are:
What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Telephone Operator jobs? Cities in Tennessee with the most Telephone Operator job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Telephone Operator jobs in TN? For Telephone Operator jobs in TN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Telephone Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Telephone Operator job openings in Tennessee as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 42% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,716 per year, or $16.2 per hour.

Telephone Operator

The US Oncology Network

Knoxville, TN

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 13 days ago

US Oncology rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 107 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

262nd of 890 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Overview

We can’t do it without YOU!

Do you want to apply your experience, skills and education in a way that makes a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of our patients and their families?  At Tennessee Cancer Specialists, it is the privilege of our employees to walk with our patients and their families as they move along the journey of fighting cancer. Whether you are working directly with patients in one of our clinics or in a support role, you are an important part of our mission to deliver the highest quality, compassionate care.  Our 300+ employees make up the teams at our 17 different East Tennessee locations! 

As a Telephone Operator, you will assist patients and other callers by answering question and/or getting them in touch with the necessary person in a timely manner.

Here's what might happen on a typical day…

In this position you will be that friendly and helpful voice that provides the highest quality of customer service to each person who calls into our clinic.  Your upbeat and positive attitude will consistently provide a realistic impression of what someone could expect within our clinics.

Although your main contact with patients will be over the phone, your position to our practice is essential.  You understand the roles of our employees and the workflow of our clinic in order to quickly provide all callers with what they need.


Responsibilities

Experiences that matter…

  • Your professionalism allows you to answer all incoming calls and connect callers with the correct extension in a courteous and efficient manner.
  • In conversations with callers, you will provide red carpet customer service through your willingness to ask appropriate questions to assess needs and provide all necessary information. This in turn helps in providing quick communication to other staff members of time sensitive information.
  • An appropriate sense of urgency allows you to direct callers immediately to clinical staff as necessary.
  • Your desire to learn the “ins and outs” of our practice makes you a valuable resource to all callers.
  • Your knowledge of our multi-line phone system and other medical office technology will provide the background needed to perform multiple functions of your position.
  • Your go-getter work ethic will have you ready to jump in and help out with any additional tasks.

For your safety, keep this in mind:

  • The position will require sitting for long periods of time with occasional stooping, bending and stretching for supplies.
  • Any lifting should be limited to 40 pounds or less.
  • You will need sufficient manual dexterity for operating office equipment (keyboard, telephone, copier, etc.), and vision and hearing must be adequate for viewing computer screens for prolonged periods of time and hearing customers during in-person and telephone conversations.

Qualifications

We feel this position requires these basics:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required, but an associate’s degree in a business-related field would be even better!
  • Your proficiency with computer systems and Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.) is a must. You either live in the Knoxville area or are in the process of relocating. This role is fully onsite and does not offer remote or hybrid work options.
  • Lastly, we feel that you will be most successful with at least one year of prior experience in a similar medical clinic position to provide you with the background needed for this position.
Qualifications:

We feel this position requires these basics:

  • A high school diploma or equivalent is required, but an associate’s degree in a business-related field would be even better!
  • Your proficiency with computer systems and Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, etc.) is a must. You either live in the Knoxville area or are in the process of relocating. This role is fully onsite and does not offer remote or hybrid work options.
  • Lastly, we feel that you will be most successful with at least one year of prior experience in a similar medical clinic position to provide you with the background needed for this position.
Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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