How much does a switchboard operator make?

In the United States, pay can differ with experience and skill, the kind of employer, and where the job is located. Work hours and shifts can matter too, because some jobs include non-daytime hours.

Operate telephone business systems equipment or switchboards to relay incoming, outgoing, and interoffice calls. May supply information to callers and record messages.

What's a typical day like?

At a desk with a headset and phone system, operators answer callers, ask what they need, and transfer calls or share basic information. They also take clear, time-stamped messages and may route urgent calls or announce alarms.

In the United States, earn a high school diploma or GED; a college degree is not usually required. Then apply for an entry-level job and learn the employer’s phone system through short-term on-the-job training.

High school plus some training (preparation level 2 of 5)

Good for people who like keeping things organized and building and doing.

Some switchboard operators may monitor emergency alarms, make emergency announcements, or route urgent calls to the right place.

The US figure is the median and the Japan figure is the average, so it's not a perfect comparison. Prices differ too.