Telephone Operators
Telephone operators provide information to callers by looking up phone numbers, addresses, and other details in directories. They assist with billing inquiries, process third-party charges, handle refunds for incorrect calls, and may route emergency calls. Most work for telecommunications companies or call centers.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against telephone operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A typical day involves answering incoming calls, searching directories for requested information, and reading results to callers. Operators process billing requests, document special charges or refunds, and handle transfers to appropriate departments. They may assist callers with questions about service charges or billing errors. Emergency calls require quick attention and clear communication to dispatch services correctly.
Who this work suits
Holland code CSE. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You likely do well in this role if you're organized and detail-oriented, enjoy helping people solve problems, and work comfortably within established procedures. You prefer predictable tasks and clear guidelines, and you're patient when helping customers with routine requests or concerns.
What it takes
Preparation: Some preparation (usually high school; some on-the-job training). Most people in this occupation hold a high school diploma.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Openings right now
- Telephone Operator · Veterans Health Administration · Charleston, South Carolina · $36409–$47334
- Supervisory Telephone Operator · Veterans Health Administration · Cleveland, Ohio · $52688–$68496
- Telephone Operator · Veterans Health Administration · Lebanon, Pennsylvania · $37146–$48293
- Telephone Operator · Veterans Health Administration · Fargo, North Dakota · $36409–$47334
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | $45,950 | $57,170 | $63,510 | 230 |
| New York | $39,140 | $50,220 | $58,170 | — |
| District of Columbia | $40,300 | $49,330 | $58,510 | 50 |
| Massachusetts | $45,150 | $47,940 | $47,940 | — |
| Wisconsin | $44,470 | $46,590 | $47,820 | 60 |
| Maryland | $41,730 | $42,460 | $45,790 | 110 |
| Virginia | $37,250 | $42,350 | $46,870 | — |
| New Jersey | $39,600 | $41,960 | $47,710 | 190 |
| Texas | $37,150 | $41,250 | $50,120 | 280 |
| North Carolina | $36,980 | $40,360 | $43,380 | 40 |
| Michigan | $35,760 | $37,550 | $43,520 | 80 |
| Oklahoma | $37,320 | $37,320 | $37,320 | 40 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against telephone operators and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 43-2021.00 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.