FAQ
Telephone Operator FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as a telephone operator.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming a telephone operator: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about telephone operators
Are telephone operator jobs disappearing?
BLS projects a steep decline.
What is relay service?
It connects deaf or hard-of-hearing callers with hearing callers.
Do I need a degree?
No.
How much does a telephone operator make?
The median annual wage for telephone operators was $41,740 ($20.07 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $31,510 and the highest 10% earned more than $62,950.
How long does it take to become a telephone operator?
Most people need about A few weeks on the job of training. A high school diploma and short-term on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be a telephone operator?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Is telephone operator a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change -27.6% from 2025–35 (a projected decline), with about 200 openings each year. Upsides include short training; a common challenge is that steep decline in jobs.
What skills does a telephone operator need?
Key technical skills include call handling, directory search, relay procedures, and typing. Employers also value clear speaking, patience, and courtesy.
What certifications are available for telephone operators?
Common credentials include Relay service training, Typing certificate, Customer service training, and Confidentiality training. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Telephone Operator fit quiz, compare with Switchboard Operator, or explore Telephone Operator training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 43-2021 (Telephone operators).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Telephone operators (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.