Telephone Operator

About the role

Incumbent functions as the Telephone Operator for the Health Administration Service at the Fargo VA Health Care System (Medical Center). Operates Paging Systems to contact medical and administrative personnel - Public Address System - and RCA Radio Communication System.

Position Description/PD#: Telephone Operator/PD437-40213A. Relocation/Recruitment Incentives: Not Authorized. Critical Skills Incentive (CSI): Not Approved. Permanent Change of Station (PCS): Not Authorized.

The VA Midwest Health Care Network advocates for a Whole Health System of care in each of the Medical Centers. This approach empowers and equips people to take charge of their health and well‑being and live their lives to the fullest. As an employee operating in a Whole Health System of care, you will work in a model with three core elements — seeking to create a personalized health plan for each Veteran — in the context of healing relationships and healing environments and a connection back to the Veteran's community, aligning with the VHA Mission Statement to Honor America's Veterans by providing exceptional health care that improves their health and well‑being.

Responsibilities

• Operating a digital multi‑line telephone system
• Handling incoming commercial and FTS calls – local and information calls – calls pertaining to patients – and calls requiring employee location
• Maintaining full working knowledge of the Medical Center and its many services and sections
• Placing long distance and overseas calls
• Correctly routing calls when very little information is forthcoming from the caller
• Remaining calm, courteous, and efficient when a caller becomes angry and abusive
• Knowing what to do and who to call when there is a systems failure
• Handling emergencies calmly
• Making proper response to alarms – knowing which ones take priority over all other activities
• Performing other duties as assigned

Qualifications

• General Experience: At least one (1) year of general experience with duties related to the position (clerical, office, or other work indicating ability to acquire needed knowledge and skills, such as customer service, receptionist duties, receiving and directing inquiries, providing immediate communications throughout the medical center).
• Education: Two (2) years of education above high school (transcripts required).
• Combination: An equivalent combination of experience and education may be used to qualify (example provided). Transcripts required if education is used.
• Volunteer work: Paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations, is credited; applicants must clearly indicate duties, responsibilities, and hours per week.
• Note: A full year of work is considered 35‑40 hours per week; part‑time experience credited proportionally.
• For more information on qualification standards, see the United States Office of Personnel Management website: https://www.opm.gov/policy-data-oversight/classification-qualifications/general-schedule-qualification-standards/
• Physical Requirements: Work is usually sedentary but may involve some standing and walking to consult directories and manuals. A pre‑employment examination or evaluation will be required.
• Working Conditions: Work is normally performed in a well‑lighted, temperature‑controlled room; normal safety precautions are required.
• Closing date: 10/06/2026 (applicants must meet all requirements by this date).

Schedule

Work Schedule: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. This is not a virtual position.