Telephone Operating
Federal position operating telephone switchboards, providing telecommunications services, and managing call routing and communications support at federal facilities and government agencies.
💰GS-0382 Salary Information
2025 Base Pay (before locality adjustment)
| Grade | Step 1 | Step 2 | Step 3 | Step 4 | Step 5 | Step 6 | Step 7 | Step 8 | Step 9 | Step 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GS-5 | $34,454 | $35,603 | $36,752 | $37,901 | $39,050 | $40,199 | $41,348 | $42,497 | $43,646 | $44,786 |
| GS-7 | $42,679 | $44,102 | $45,525 | $46,948 | $48,371 | $49,794 | $51,217 | $52,640 | $54,063 | $55,486 |
| GS-9 | $52,205 | $53,945 | $55,685 | $57,425 | $59,165 | $60,905 | $62,645 | $64,385 | $66,125 | $67,865 |
| GS-11 | $63,163 | $65,268 | $67,373 | $69,478 | $71,583 | $73,688 | $75,793 | $77,898 | $80,003 | $82,108 |
| GS-12 | $75,706 | $78,229 | $80,752 | $83,275 | $85,798 | $88,321 | $90,844 | $93,367 | $95,890 | $98,422 |
| GS-13 | $90,025 | $93,026 | $96,027 | $99,028 | $102,029 | $105,030 | $108,031 | $111,032 | $114,033 | $117,034 |
| GS-14 | $106,382 | $109,928 | $113,474 | $117,020 | $120,566 | $124,112 | $127,658 | $131,204 | $134,750 | $138,296 |
| GS-15 | $125,133 | $129,304 | $133,475 | $137,646 | $141,817 | $145,988 | $150,159 | $154,330 | $158,501 | $162,672 |
Note: These are 2025 base pay rates. Most federal employees receive locality pay adjustments of 15-40%+ depending on location.
Qualification Requirements
Official OPM qualification standards for GS-0382
Group Coverage Qualification Standard for Clerical and Administrative Support Positions
Individual Occupational Requirements: There is no OPM qualification standard for this series. If a standard is needed to fill positions in this series, the employing agency should contact OPM for assistance.
Experience and Education Requirements by Grade Level (Group Standard):
| Grade | General Experience | Specialized Experience | Education |
|---|---|---|---|
| GS-1 | None | None | None |
| GS-2 | 3 months | None | High school diploma or equivalent |
| GS-3 | 6 months | None | 1 year above high school |
| GS-4 | 1 year | None | 2 years above high school |
| GS-5 | None | 1 year at GS-4 level | 4 years above high school |
| GS-6+ | None | 1 year at next lower grade | Generally not applicable |
General Experience: Progressively responsible clerical, office, or other work that indicates ability to acquire the particular knowledge and skills needed to perform the duties of the position to be filled.
Specialized Experience: Experience that equipped the applicant with the particular knowledge, skills, and abilities (KSAs) to perform successfully the duties of the position, and that is typically in or related to the position to be filled.
Education: One year of full-time academic study equals 30 semester hours, 45 quarter hours, or approximately 36 weeks at 20+ classroom hours per week.
Combining Education and Experience: For grades GS-3 through GS-5, applicants may substitute education for experience. Express both as percentages; combined must equal at least 100%.
🎖️Tips for Veterans
- ✓Translate military experience: Map duties to civilian terminology.
- ✓Highlight training: Include courses and certifications.
- ✓Veterans preference: Claim your 5 or 10-point preference.
- ✓Experience substitution: Military experience may substitute for education.
📝How to Qualify for GS-0382
Step-by-step guide to landing a federal telephone operating position
- 1
Review Qualification Requirements
Read the OPM qualification standards above to understand the education and experience requirements for your target grade level.
- 2
Determine Your Grade Level
Match your years of experience and education to the appropriate GS grade. Generally: GS-5 (entry), GS-7/9 (junior), GS-11/12 (journey), GS-13+ (senior).
- 3
Gather Documentation
Collect your DD-214, SF-50 (if applicable), transcripts, certifications, and any training records that demonstrate your qualifications.
- 4
Build Your Federal Resume
Create a detailed federal resume (2-5 pages) that addresses every qualification requirement. Include hours worked per week, supervisor contact info, and specific accomplishments.
- 5
Apply on USAJOBS
Search for open positions, carefully answer all assessment questions, and submit your application before the closing date.
🎖️Military to Federal Crosswalk
Military jobs that transition to GS-0382
Information Systems Technician
Information Systems Technicians manage and operate communication systems, making them well-suited for telephone operating roles.
Radio Operator-Maintainer
The Radio Operator-Maintainer role involves managing communications equipment and providing communication support, which aligns well with telephone operating duties.
Client Systems Technician
Client Systems Technicians support communication systems and user interfaces, providing a moderate fit for telephone operating roles.
💡 Tip:Your unique military experience may qualify you even if your MOS isn't listed.
📋Typical Duties
- •Operate switchboard
- •Route calls
- •Provide directory assistance
- •Handle emergency calls
- •Maintain call logs
🎯Key Competencies
Clear and professional telephone manner.
Skill in assisting callers courteously.
Proficiency with telephone systems.
Ability to recall frequently used numbers and extensions.
Ability to handle high call volumes and emergencies.
Accuracy in connecting calls and taking messages.
🔑Resume Keywords
💡 Use these phrases to help ATS systems and human recruiters find your qualifications.
Quick Links
Grade Levels
Grade information not available
❓Frequently Asked Questions about GS-0382
What is a federal Telephone Operator?
GS-0382 Telephone Operators run switchboards, route calls, provide directory assistance, and manage communications at federal facilities. They handle routine calls, emergencies, and after-hours coverage at military installations, federal buildings, and agency call centers.
How much does a federal Telephone Operator make?
GS-0382 positions typically range from GS-2 ($25,142) to GS-5 ($34,454-$44,786). Most positions are GS-3 to GS-4 ($27,434-$40,038). Lead operators at large installations may reach GS-5/6. Add locality pay of 15-40%. Benefits add significant value.
What are the requirements for GS-0382 positions?
At GS-3, you need 6 months of general experience or 1 year of education above high school. Clear, professional telephone manner and customer service skills are essential. Higher grades require specialized experience operating multi-line phone systems or telecommunications equipment.
Can military experience substitute for education in GS-0382?
Yes. Military switchboard operation, communications center experience, or customer service roles qualify. If you routed calls, operated tactical or garrison communications equipment, or provided directory assistance, that experience translates directly. Your experience handling emergency calls is particularly valuable.
What is the career progression for Telephone Operators?
Start at GS-2/3 with progression to GS-4/5. Lead or supervisory positions exist at large facilities. Many transition to Telecommunications Specialist, Customer Service Representative, or administrative positions. This is often an entry point to federal careers with regular schedules and benefits.
How do I apply for GS-0382 jobs on USAJOBS?
Search USAJOBS for 'Telephone Operator' or 'Switchboard Operator.' Positions exist at military installations, large federal buildings, and VA hospitals. Emphasize your customer service skills, clear communication, and ability to remain calm under pressure. Veterans preference applies.
Ready to Apply for GS-0382?
Create a tailored federal resume that meets OPM standards.