1

Heavy Tow Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Tow Truck Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

We are looking for a dependable and skilled Heavy Wrecker & Light-Duty Tow Operator to join our towing and recovery team. This role is responsible for safely operating heavy wreckers and rotators for ...

Tow Truck Operator

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$22 - $30/hr

We are looking for a dependable and skilled Heavy Wrecker & Light-Duty Tow Operator to join our towing and recovery team. This role is responsible for safely operating heavy wreckers and rotators for ...

Heavy Duty Tow Operator

Roberts, WI · On-site

$18 - $24/hr

Environmental Clean-Up Towing operators work in a safe manner to efficiently remove heavy duty and light duty motor vehicles damaged by accident, stalled, ticketed or other traffic violations.

Environmental Clean-Up Towing operators work in a safe manner to efficiently remove heavy duty and light duty motor vehicles damaged by accident, stalled, ticketed or other traffic violations.

... and professional On-Call Tow Truck Driver to provide emergency roadside assistance, towing ... Perform light, medium, and heavy-duty towing and recovery services. * Provide roadside assistance ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Heavy Tow Operator information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Heavy Tow Operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Heavy Tow Operator, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), knowledge of vehicle recovery, and experience handling large vehicles. Familiarity with hydraulic lift systems, winches, GPS navigation, and often certifications like WreckMaster are typically required. Excellent problem-solving skills, calmness under pressure, and strong communication abilities help operators manage challenging roadside situations. These skills and qualities are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and professional recovery operations in demanding environments.

What are some common challenges faced by Heavy Tow Operators on the job?

Heavy Tow Operators often encounter challenges such as navigating through traffic with large vehicles, handling adverse weather conditions, and safely recovering disabled or wrecked heavy-duty trucks. The role requires quick problem-solving and adaptability, as each towing situation can be unique. Operators must also communicate effectively with dispatchers, law enforcement, and customers to coordinate safe and timely recoveries while ensuring compliance with safety regulations.

What is the difference between Heavy Tow Operator vs Heavy Equipment Operator?

AspectHeavy Tow OperatorHeavy Equipment Operator
CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), Tow truck certificationsOSHA safety training, CDL often preferred
Work EnvironmentRoadside, towing sites, accident scenesConstruction sites, industrial areas
Job DutiesOperate tow trucks, recover vehiclesOperate heavy machinery like bulldozers, cranes

Both roles involve operating large vehicles and require safety certifications. Heavy Tow Operators focus on vehicle recovery and roadside assistance, while Heavy Equipment Operators handle construction machinery. The roles differ mainly in work environment and specific equipment operated, but both are essential in their respective industries.

What are heavy tow operators?

Heavy tow operators are professionals who operate specialized tow trucks designed to move large vehicles such as buses, trucks, and construction equipment. They are trained to handle complex towing situations, including accident recovery and the transportation of oversized vehicles. Heavy tow operators must have a commercial driver's license (CDL), extensive knowledge of towing equipment, and strong problem-solving skills to ensure safety and efficiency during operations.
More about Heavy Tow Operator jobs
What job categories do people searching Heavy Tow Operator jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Tow Operator jobs are:
Infographic showing various Heavy Tow Operator job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 11% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Tow Truck Operator

Cogent Talent Solutions

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago


Job description

Position Summary:
We are looking for a dependable and skilled Heavy Wrecker & Light-Duty Tow Operator to join our towing and recovery team. This role is responsible for safely operating heavy wreckers and rotators for large-scale recoveries, while also handling light-duty towing and roadside service for passenger vehicles. The ideal candidate is versatile, safety-conscious, and committed to providing professional customer service in both heavy and light-duty operations.
Key Responsibilities
  • Safely operate heavy-duty wreckers and recovery equipment to tow and recover commercial trucks, buses, and heavy machinery.
  • Perform light-duty towing and roadside assistance for passenger vehicles, including jump starts, lockouts, tire changes, and fuel deliveries.
  • Assess accident and breakdown scenes, determine recovery needs, and execute plans in a safe, efficient manner.
  • Properly rig, secure, and transport vehicles of all sizes using approved equipment and methods.
  • Communicate with dispatch, customers, and emergency responders to coordinate safe and timely service.
  • Complete accurate service tickets, condition reports, and time logs for all calls.
  • Conduct daily inspections of trucks and towing equipment; report any maintenance issues.
  • Adhere to DOT, OSHA, and company safety standards in all towing and recovery operations.
  • Represent the company with professionalism and courtesy at every call.

Qualifications
  • Experience operating heavy wreckers or recovery equipment (preferred).
  • Prior light-duty towing or roadside assistance experience a plus.
  • Strong knowledge of recovery, rigging, and safety techniques for both light and heavy vehicles.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and on-call rotations.
  • Strong communication skills and customer service mindset.

Benefits
  • Competitive pay
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement plan with company match
  • Paid time off and holidays

$22 - $30 an hour
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.