Switchboard operators, including answering service
SOC Code: 43-2011Also known as:
Answering Service Telephone Operator, CBX Operator (Computerized Branch Exchange Operator), Central Communications Specialist, Combination Operator, Command and Control Specialist
Median Annual Salary
$38,370
-26.3% growth (2024-2034)
3K
Openings/Year
37K
Current Jobs
What Switchboard operators, including answering service Do
Operate telephone business systems equipment or switchboards to relay incoming, outgoing, and interoffice calls. May supply information to callers and record messages.
💰 Salary
$38,370
Median annual wage (2024)
📈 Job Growth
-26.3%
Decline
🎓 Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Typical entry-level requirement
🚀 Annual Openings
3K
Projected average per year
📚 On-the-Job Training
Short-term on-the-job training
Expected training period
Employment Projections (2024-2034)
Current Employment (2024)
36,600
Projected Employment (2034)
27,000
Related Careers
Telephone operators
$39,130 •
-27.5% growth
Customer service representatives
$42,830 •
-5.5% growth
Receptionists and information clerks
$37,230 •
+0.0% growth
Public safety telecommunicators
$50,730 •
+3.5% growth
Office clerks, general
$43,630 •
-6.7% growth
Top Skills Required
Active Listening
Speaking
Social Perceptiveness
Service Orientation
Reading Comprehension
Daily Tasks & Responsibilities
- Operate communication systems, such as telephone, switchboard, intercom, two-way radio, or public address.
- Answer incoming calls, greeting callers, providing information, transferring calls or taking messages as necessary.
- Greet visitors, log them in and out of the facility, assign them security badges, and contact employee escorts.
- Monitor emergency and code alarms, make emergency announcements, or route emergency calls to the appropriate location.
- Record messages, suggesting rewording for clarity or conciseness.
- Page individuals to inform them of telephone calls, using paging or interoffice communication equipment.
- Relay or route written or verbal messages.
- Perform various cash handling tasks, such as collecting payments, making bank deposits, or managing petty cash.
- Place telephone calls or arrange conference calls as instructed.
- Process incoming or outgoing mail, packages, or deliveries.
Technology & Tools
📚 Entry-Level Education
High school diploma or equivalent
Most common requirement
🎯 Recommended Education
High School Diploma
O*NET recommended level
College Rankings
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much do switchboard operators, including answering service make?
The median annual salary for switchboard operators, including answering service is $38,370.
What education do switchboard operators, including answering service need?
Most switchboard operators, including answering service positions require a high school diploma or equivalent.
Is becoming a switchboard operators, including answering service a good career choice?
Switchboard operators, including answering service is projected to see -26.3% job growth from 2024 to 2034,
which reflects some decline in the field. With approximately 2,800 job openings expected annually,
there are good opportunities for those entering the field.
What are the best colleges for switchboard operators, including answering service?
The best colleges offer strong programs in related fields with experienced faculty and industry connections.
What other job titles are similar to switchboard operators, including answering service?
Switchboard operators, including answering service may also be known as: Answering Service Telephone Operator, CBX Operator (Computerized Branch Exchange Operator), Central Communications Specialist, Combination Operator, Command and Control Specialist, Communication Center Operator, Communications Coordinator, Communications Operator, Communications Specialist, Complaint Operator, Desk Operator, Exchange Operator, Information Specialist, Line Technician, Operator, PBX Operator (Private Branch Exchange Operator), PBX Service Adviser (Private Branch Exchange Service Adviser), Police Communications Operator, Police District Switchboard Operator (Police District SB Operator), Private Branch Exchange Switchboard Operator (PBX Switchboard Operator).
These titles often refer to similar roles with varying responsibilities or specializations.