Occupation: Telephone Operators

Telephone Operators

Provide information by accessing alphabetical, geographical, or other directories. Assist customers with special billing requests, such as charges to a third party and credits or refunds for incorrectly dialed numbers or bad connections. May handle emergency calls and assist children or people with physical disabilities to make telephone calls.

43-2021.00 | 14 tasks | 10 job titles
Reported Job Titles (10)
  • 411 Directory Assistance Operator (411 Directory Assistance Op)
  • Directory Assistance Operator (Directory Assistance Op)
  • Information Specialist
  • Live Source Operator (Live Source Op)
  • Long Distance Operator (LD Operator)
  • PBX Operator (Post Box Exchange Operator)
  • Phone Operator (Telephone Operator)
  • Phone Secretary (Telephone Secretary)
  • TELECOM Op (Telecommunications Operator)
  • Toll Operator (Toll Op)
Core Tasks (7)
  • Observe signal lights on switchboards, and dial or press buttons to make connections.
  • Operate telephone switchboards and systems to advance and complete connections, including those for local, long distance, pay telephone, mobile, person-to-person, and emergency calls.
  • Listen to customer requests, referring to alphabetical or geographical directories to answer questions and provide telephone information.
  • Update directory information.
  • Suggest and check alternate spellings, locations, or listing formats to customers lacking details or complete information.
  • Perform clerical duties such as typing, proofreading, and sorting mail.
  • Offer special assistance to persons such as those who are unable to dial or who are in emergency situations.
Supplemental Tasks (7)
  • Operate paging systems or other systems of bells or buzzers to notify recipients of incoming calls.
  • Monitor automated systems for placing collect calls and intervene for a callers needing assistance.
  • Interrupt busy lines if an emergency warrants.
  • Provide assistance for customers with special billing requests.
  • Provide relay service for users who are deaf or hard of hearing.
  • Keep records of calls placed and received, and of related toll charges.
  • Promote company products, services, and savings plans when appropriate.