Does operate have both a long and e sound?

Yes, the word "operate" has both a long "e" sound and a short "e" sound.

* Long "e" sound: The "e" in the first syllable ("operate") is pronounced with a long "e" sound, like the "e" in "see" or "tree".

* Short "e" sound: The "e" in the second syllable ("operate") is pronounced with a short "e" sound, like the "e" in "bed" or "pen".