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Telephone Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Overview Telephone Operator Willamette Valley Cancer Institute is seeking a Telephone Operator to join their administrative team at the Central Business Office in Eugene, OR. This role involves ...

Telephone Operator

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$17.10 - $21.05/hr

Primary operators for Incoming Scheduling Calls * Representative of BCC, Ches, HV, Obici, PA ... Requires manual dexterity sufficient to operate a keyboard, calculator, telephone, copier and other ...

Telephone Operator

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$19.50 - $25/hr

Performs operator functions including triaging calls; connecting and transferring calls; setting up conference calls; instructing users on telephone procedures; and reporting telephone and equipment ...

Telephone Operator

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$17.10 - $21.05/hr

Primary operators for Incoming Scheduling Calls * Representative of BCC, Ches, HV, Obici, PA ... Requires manual dexterity sufficient to operate a keyboard, calculator, telephone, copier and other ...

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 ...

telephone

San Jose, CA · On-site

$19 - $23.75/hr

As a telephone Operator, you will answer all incoming calls, answer questions, and direct calls to the appropriate people and places. You will also verify information over the phone, update ...

The PBX Telephone Operator must work well handling a high volume of calls. The PBX Telephone Operator should be comfortable and able to answer questions relating to the hotel. This Candidate may also ...

Telephone Operator

Peoria, IL · On-site

$16 - $25/hr

Overview Illinois CancerCare is seeking a Phone Operator to support our new Canopy triage system ... Requires manual dexterity sufficient to operate a keyboard, calculator, telephone, copier and other ...

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Telephone Operator information

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$9

$17

$25

How much do telephone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 10, 2026, the average hourly pay for telephone operator in the United States is $17.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $19.47 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.
More about Telephone Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Telephone Operator jobs? Cities with the most Telephone Operator job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Telephone Operator jobs? The most popular types of Telephone Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Telephone Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Telephone Operator jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Telephone Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Telephone Operator jobs are:
What are popular job titles related to Telephone Operator jobs? For Telephone Operator jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Telephone Operator job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 40% Full Time, 58% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,148 per year, or $17.9 per hour.
Telephone Operator

Telephone Operator

The US Oncology Network

Chicago Ridge, IL • On-site

$15 - $18/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago


US Oncology rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 106 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

230th of 880 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview

Join Affiliated Oncologists as a Telephone Operator!

AO specializes in treating a variety of cancers including lymphoma lung, breast, prostate, gynecologic, colorectal and head and neck cancers. Our physicians and staff are multi-disciplinary team of highly experienced caregivers focused on helping patients and their families receive the best care and support possible.

SCOPE: Under direct supervision, is responsible for providing a full range of telephone switchboard duties, including triaging calls and relaying messages. Assists with clerical duties as required. Serves as a liaison between patients and medical staff. Supports and adheres to the US Oncology Compliance Program, to include the Code of Ethics and Business Standards. 


Responsibilities

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

- Courteously and efficiently answers all incoming calls and connects callers with the correct extension.

- Takes and relays messages in an accurate and timely manner.

- Responds to emergency and urgent calls from patients in a timely manner.

- Directs callers immediately to clinical staff as necessary.

- Performs operator functions including triaging calls; connecting and transferring calls; setting up conference calls; instructing users on telephone procedures; and reporting telephone and equipment malfunctions to the appropriate party. - Provides a pleasant and helpful phone contact for callers.

- Responsible for opening and closing the switchboard.

- Responsible for the in-house paging system.

- Performs clerical duties as assigned to maintain workflow in the department. 


Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

- High school diploma or equivalent required.

- Position is entry level and requires 0-3 years experience, preferably in a medical setting.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work may require sitting for long periods of time, stooping and bending/stretching for files and supplies. Requires occasional lifting of files or paper weighing up to 30 pounds. Requires manual dexterity sufficient to operate a keyboard, calculator, telephone, copier and other office equipment. Vision must be correctable to 20/20 and hearing must be in the normal range for telephone contacts.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work is performed in an office environment. Involves high levels of contact with patients and public.

HOURLY RANGE: 

  • $15 - $18 per hour

BENEFITS OFFERED: 

  • Medical  
  • Healthcare Reimbursement Accounts (HRCA) 
  • Health Savings Accounts (HAS) 
  • Dental  
  • Vision 
  • Life Insurance 
  • Short-Term Disability (STD) 
  • Long-Term Disability (LTD) 
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 
  • Commuter Benefits 
  • 401(k) 
  • Wellness Program 

Applicants will be hired into the title appropriate to their credentials and years of experience.

Qualifications:

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

- High school diploma or equivalent required.

- Position is entry level and requires 0-3 years experience, preferably in a medical setting.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work may require sitting for long periods of time, stooping and bending/stretching for files and supplies. Requires occasional lifting of files or paper weighing up to 30 pounds. Requires manual dexterity sufficient to operate a keyboard, calculator, telephone, copier and other office equipment. Vision must be correctable to 20/20 and hearing must be in the normal range for telephone contacts.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work is performed in an office environment. Involves high levels of contact with patients and public.

HOURLY RANGE: 

  • $15 - $18 per hour

BENEFITS OFFERED: 

  • Medical  
  • Healthcare Reimbursement Accounts (HRCA) 
  • Health Savings Accounts (HAS) 
  • Dental  
  • Vision 
  • Life Insurance 
  • Short-Term Disability (STD) 
  • Long-Term Disability (LTD) 
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) 
  • Commuter Benefits 
  • 401(k) 
  • Wellness Program 

Applicants will be hired into the title appropriate to their credentials and years of experience.

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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