Telecommunications operators are tasked with answering and fielding calls, and providing the proper and requested information to these callers. A telecommunications operator will usually work in either a remote or on-site call center of some type. A telecommunications operator must have an excellent and ideally extroverted personality, be able to communicate well, and have a good memory and quick wit. Because the telecommunications operator is tasked with helping customers, they must be able to resolve any problems the customer may face as well.
Typically, telecommunications operators will work on a team of other operators with a set script, although they must be both willing and able to deviate from this script when needed in order to provide the best service possible to the customer. This job is a desk job that does not require much if any physical exertion. Usually, telecommunications operators are hired by larger businesses and more corporate locations.
Sample job description
Average salary and compensation
The average salary for a telecommunications operator is $43,350 in the United States. Position salary will vary depending on the level of experience, education, industry, and geographical location.
| Location | Salary Low | Salary High |
|---|---|---|
| Phoenix, Arizona | $43,100 | $58,350 |
| Los Angeles, California | $48,650 | $65,800 |
| Denver, Colorado | $40,550 | $54,850 |
| Washington, DC | $49,400 | $66,800 |
| Miami, Florida | $40,350 | $54,600 |
| Orlando, Florida | $37,200 | $50,350 |
| Tampa, Florida | $37,600 | $50,850 |
| Atlanta, Georgia | $39,450 | $53,350 |
| Chicago, Illinois | $45,300 | $61,300 |
| Boston, Massachusetts | $49,000 | $66,300 |
| Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota | $39,050 | $52,850 |
| New York City, New York | $51,600 | $69,800 |
| Philadelphia, Pennsylvania | $42,000 | $56,850 |
| Dallas, Texas | $40,900 | $55,350 |
| Houston, Texas | $40,550 | $54,850 |
| Seattle, Washington | $47,150 | $63,800 |
| National Average | $36,850 | $49,850 |
Sample interview questions
- What are the main responsibilities of a telecommunications operator?
- What skills are required to be a successful telecommunications operator?
- What strengths do you bring to this position?
- Why do you like being a telecommunications operator?
- What is the worst thing about the job of a telecommunications operator?
- What training courses or extra education do you think will improve your work performance?
- Do you have any experience working in police departments, fire stations, or EMS services?
- Have you ever worked for agencies that have emergency hotlines?
- What experience do you have using dispatch equipment?
- What people skills do you have that equip you for the job?
- Are you willing to work shifts and holidays?
- Can you name several different types of call centers? What is the difference between them?
- What does customer satisfaction mean to you?
- What would you do if a customer abused you on the phone?
- How do you handle the pressure of high call volumes?
- What is your proficiency on computers?
- How are your communication skills?
- What is the key to success in a call center?
- Do you have experience working in a virtual call center?
- What would you do if a customer was not happy with your answer or solution?
