Switchboard Operators

Switchboard Operators operate telecommunication switchboards and consoles to assist callers establish telephone connections, and receive caller inquiries and fault reports.

**Indicative skill level:**

Most occupations in this unit group have a level of skill commensurate with the qualifications outlined below.

#### In Australia:

- AQF Certificate I, or compulsory secondary education (ANZSCO Skill Level 5)

#### In New Zealand:

- NZQF Level 1 qualification, or compulsory secondary education (ANZSCO Skill Level 5)

For some occupations a short period of on-the-job training may be required in addition to or instead of the formal qualification. In some instances no formal qualification or on-the-job training may be required.

**Tasks include:**

- operating switchboards and consoles to connect, hold, transfer and disconnect telephone calls - responding to callers' inquiries by providing information such as telephone numbers, dialling codes, call costs, time delays and service difficulties - investigating operating system problems and informing maintenance services - alerting emergency services when required - recording details and determining charges for designated types of calls - may monitor the efficiency of systems and maintain service sampling records