Communication Operator

PeaceHealth•Bellingham, WA

About The Position

PeaceHealth is seeking a Communication Operator for a per diem/relief, variable position. The role facilitates communications through one or more systems, including the telephone console (switchboard), physician answering service, overhead paging, two-way radios, and pager system. The position is represented by a collective bargaining agreement. The salary range is $20.97–$31.45, with the hiring rate dependent on factors including education, training, work experience, applicable collective bargaining agreement terms, and seniority. There may be more than one opening. The Communication Operator routes calls, responds to emergency codes, dispatches security and other services, and provides information to people in the lobby. The operator may also communicate through overhead paging, two-way radios, and beepers; operate a physician answering service; work with physicians on trouble reports; and perform routine clerical and data-entry tasks. The role operates in a predominantly office-based, sedentary environment and regularly uses a computer and other office equipment. PeaceHealth notes that benefits for positions under 0.5 FTE include a 403(b) retirement plan for caregiver contributions, wellness benefits, a discount program, and expanded EAP and mental health programming.

Requirements

High school diploma.
Strong interpersonal skills, including a high degree of courtesy.
Ability to maintain professional communication in a high-stress, fast-paced environment.
Exceptional attention to detail.
Ability to multitask and strong organizational skills.
Proficient computer and keyboarding skills.
Ability to make decisions without direct supervision.
Good spelling and penmanship.

Nice To Haves

Experience working in a medical office or hospital setting.
Previous operator or switchboard and clerical experience.

Responsibilities

Operate the telephone console (switchboard), directing incoming operator-assisted and outgoing calls to appropriate individuals, departments, and outside contacts.
Respond to emergency codes and dispatch security.
Provide information to people in the lobby.
Use overhead paging, two-way radios, and the beeper system as required, including making requested overhead announcements.
Extend and respond appropriately to calls, codes, alarm panels, and disaster plans wherever needed.
Operate the physician answering service when required and handle trouble reports by working directly with physicians.
Make announcements as needed and assist with directories.
Enter daily telephone statistics and perform other routine clerical and data-entry tasks as requested.
Say the evening prayer and announce when visiting hours are over.
Receive house census information from nursing supervisors.
Report console status and pertinent information about hospital staff and events to relief staff when leaving the switchboard.
Report system trouble to the telephone technician as directed.
Provide backup assistance to other departments as directed.
Operate other communication and emergency systems as required.
Dispatch requests for multiple services as required.
Perform other duties as assigned.