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Telephone Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 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 Operator

Norfolk, VA · On-site

$14 - $17.50/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

Somerset, PA · On-site

$18.59 - $27.96/hr

You may assist with training new telephone/switchboard operators. Qualifications: * High school graduate or equivalent. * 1 year of experience answering and processing calls through automated phone ...

Telephone Operator

Binghamton, NY · On-site

$17.05 - $22.17/hr

Position Overview United Health Services (UHS) is seeking a courteous and dependable Telephone Operator to manage incoming and outgoing calls, provide information, and connect patients, families, and ...

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 (Full-Time)

Washington, PA · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Join our hospital team as a Telephone Operator, where your voice will be the first point of contact in delivering compassionate care and critical support. In this fast-paced role, you'll play a vital ...

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Telephone Operator information

See salary details

$9

$17

$25

How much do telephone operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 20, 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 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 do I become a phone operator?

To become a telephone operator, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent and good communication skills. On-the-job training is common, and familiarity with phone systems or switchboards can be helpful; some positions may require basic computer skills or customer service experience.

Do telephone operators still exist?

Telephone operators were once essential for connecting calls manually, but their role has largely been replaced by automated switching systems and digital technology. Today, the job is rare and typically found in specialized or legacy environments, with most communication handled by automated systems and customer service representatives using computers and telephony tools.

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.

Do landlines still have an operator?

Telephone operators were once essential for connecting calls on landline networks, but their role has largely been phased out with the advent of automated dialing and digital switching systems. Today, most landline calls are handled automatically, and the job of a telephone operator is rare or obsolete in modern telecommunications environments.

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 is the role of a Telephone Operator?

A Telephone Operator is responsible for connecting calls, providing information, and assisting callers in reaching the correct person or department. They often use switchboards or computerized systems and require good communication and customer service skills. The role may involve handling emergency calls and maintaining call logs.
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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% 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

Greenwood Village, CO • On-site

$19.30 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago


US Oncology rating

7.4

Company rating: 7.4 out of 10

Based on 104 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

256th of 873 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview

Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers, Colorado's largest and most comprehensive provider of cancer care has an exciting opportunity for a Telephone Operator in Greenwood Village.  

Ideal for candidates looking to build clinical experience; this entry-level operator position provides training and exposure to clinical processes, documentation, and patient flow

We realize that it sounds cliché but it is true - taking care of cancer patients is a calling. It’s much more than a job. Each of us has a unique story that brought us to Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers (RMCC), but those stories usually share common themes of care, compassion, and commitment.

No matter the role each RMCC team member serves in, the goal is the same: to provide the best care possible for each and every one of our patients. Whether we are a nurse holding our patient’s hand, or a scheduler on the phone finding an appointment that fits into a patient’s schedule, we are deeply connected to our patients and do what we can to help.

Salary range:  $19.30-$20.00

Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to education, work experience, certification, etc.  As of the date of this posting, in addition to your salary, RMCC offers the following benefits for this position, subject to eligibility requirements: Health, dental, and vision plans; wellness program; health savings account; flexible spending accounts; 401(k) retirement plan; life insurance, short-term disability insurance; long-term disability insurance, Employee Assistant Program, PTO, holiday pay, and tuition reimbursement.


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.

-Provides a pleasant and helpful phone contact for callers.

-Responsible for opening and closing the switchboard.

-Enter navigating care tickets


Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent required. Minimum two years office 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. 

All qualified candidates are required to pass a background check and non-federal drug test (which excludes marijuana) post offer of employment and prior to hire.

We will be accepting applications on an ongoing basis for this position. To apply for this position, start the process by clicking the blue "apply" 

Qualifications:

High school diploma or equivalent required. Minimum two years office 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. 

All qualified candidates are required to pass a background check and non-federal drug test (which excludes marijuana) post offer of employment and prior to hire.

We will be accepting applications on an ongoing basis for this position. To apply for this position, start the process by clicking the blue "apply" 

Education:UNAVAILABLEEmployment Type: FULL_TIME

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