SWITCHBOARD OPERATOR

Joint Medical Holdings; Durban; On-site; ZAR 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Joint Medical Holdings in Durban is seeking a Switchboard Operator to manage the hospital’s main switchboard, directing calls and assisting patients, visitors, doctors and staff with courteous, professional service.

The role requires Grade 12 (Matric) and 1–2 years’ switchboard or reception experience, along with strong communication and Microsoft Office skills. Ability to multitask in a busy hospital setting is essential.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 (Matric) is required.
• 1–2 years’ switchboard experience.
• Experience in administrative, switchboard, reception or secretarial duties.

Responsibilities

• Operate a busy hospital switchboard and direct calls professionally.
• Provide courteous service to patients, visitors, doctors and staff.
• Handle messages, complaints, compliments and enquiries with prompt follow-up.
• Maintain confidentiality of patient and hospital information.
• Update telephone directories and contact lists.
• Provide general administrative support (filing, mail, supplies).
• Liaise with ambulance services and hospital communications.
• Adhere to health and safety procedures, emergency protocols and policies.

Skills

Verbal communication

Written communication

Telephone etiquette

Customer service

Confidentiality

Multitasking

Microsoft Office

Organisation

Under pressure

Education

Grade 12 (Matric)

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

PURPOSE OF POSITION

To operate the Hospital switchboard efficiently and professionally, ensuring effective communication and providing courteous assistance to patients, visitors, doctors, and staff.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS

• Operate a busy hospital switchboard, answering and directing calls professionally and efficiently.
• Provide excellent customer service to patients, visitors, doctors, and staff.
• Handle messages, complaints, compliments, and enquiries, ensuring prompt follow-up and resolution.
• Maintain confidentiality of all patient and hospital information.
• Update and maintain telephone directories and contact lists.
• Provide administrative support, including filing, document auditing, mail handling, and office supply management.
• Liaise with ambulance services and support hospital communication channels.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety procedures, emergency protocols, and hospital policies.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• Grade 12 (Matric)
• 1-2 years' experience as a Switchboard Operator.
• Previous experience in administrative, switchboard, reception, or secretarial duties.

SKILLS

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong telephone etiquette and customer service skills.
• Ability to operate a busy switchboard efficiently.
• Excellent interpersonal and relationship-building skills.
• Strong organisational and administrative abilities.
• Ability to multitask and prioritise workload effectively.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to handle confidential information with discretion.
• Problem-solving and complaint-handling skills.
• Professional and courteous manner.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Strong time management skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Knowledge of hospital operations and emergency procedures would be advantageous.

NB: Only short listed candidates will be contacted.
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By applying to this advert, you consent to JMH (Pty) Ltd collecting and processing your personal information for the purpose of determining your eligibility for the advertised position.
If unsuccessful, your personal information is securely destroyed and is not retained by the company.
Preference will be given to employees from the designated group in line with the Employment Equity Act.