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Heavy Vehicle Recovery Jobs (NOW HIRING)

K & R

Light Duty - Tow Truck Driver

Holland, MI · On-site

$17.25 - $23.50/hr

This role involves responding to various vehicle recovery situations. The typical work hours are 8 ... Willingness to learn and advance to heavy-duty towing operations. * Availability to be part of an ...

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Heavy Vehicle Recovery information

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How much do heavy vehicle recovery jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy vehicle recovery in the United States is $17.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.38 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do tow truck drivers make?

Tow truck drivers in the heavy vehicle recovery industry typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 annually, with experienced drivers and those working for specialized companies earning higher wages. Pay can vary based on location, experience, and whether drivers work on commission or hourly, often requiring skills in vehicle handling and roadside assistance.

What is the difference between Heavy Vehicle Recovery vs Towing Operator?

AspectHeavy Vehicle RecoveryTowing Operator
Credentials/CertificationsHeavy vehicle licenses, specialized recovery trainingStandard towing licenses, general vehicle handling
Work EnvironmentOn-road, roadside, and off-road recovery sites for large vehiclesUrban and highway towing for various vehicle sizes
Employer & Industry UsageRecovery companies, transport industry, logisticsTow truck services, roadside assistance providers

Heavy Vehicle Recovery and Towing Operator roles share similarities in licensing and work environments but differ mainly in the specialization for large, heavy vehicles versus general towing services. Heavy Vehicle Recovery focuses on large trucks and machinery, requiring specialized skills and equipment, while Towing Operators handle a broader range of vehicles, including cars and light trucks.

What are heavy vehicle recovery services?

Heavy vehicle recovery services involve the process of removing, towing, or recovering large vehicles such as trucks, buses, or construction equipment that have broken down, been involved in accidents, or are otherwise immobile. These services require specialized equipment and trained operators to safely handle the size and weight of heavy vehicles. Recovery professionals may work in challenging conditions, including highways, construction sites, or off-road locations, to ensure vehicles are moved without causing further damage. Their expertise helps keep roads safe and traffic flowing after incidents involving large vehicles.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Heavy Vehicle Recovery Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Heavy Vehicle Recovery Specialist, you need a solid understanding of vehicle mechanics, safe towing procedures, and a valid commercial driver's license (CDL). Familiarity with hydraulic winches, recovery vehicles, and industry safety standards is typically required, along with certifications such as WreckMaster or TRAA. Strong problem-solving skills, calmness under pressure, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These abilities are crucial to ensure safe, efficient recoveries and to minimize risk for both the operator and the public during challenging roadside incidents.

What are some common challenges faced in a Heavy Vehicle Recovery role, and how can they be addressed?

Heavy Vehicle Recovery professionals often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, handling complex recovery situations on busy roads, and ensuring safety for themselves and others. To address these, thorough training in safety protocols, strong communication skills for coordinating with law enforcement and other responders, and proficiency in operating specialized recovery equipment are essential. Being adaptable and maintaining a calm demeanor under pressure also helps in efficiently managing unexpected situations.
More about Heavy Vehicle Recovery jobs
What job categories do people searching Heavy Vehicle Recovery jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Heavy Vehicle Recovery jobs are:
Heavy Vehicle Recovery jobs near you
Infographic showing various Heavy Vehicle Recovery job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 74% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $37,235 per year, or $17.9 per hour.

Tow Truck Operator - Heavy Duty

Ewing Bros Inc.

Henderson, NV • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Tow Truck Operator - Heavy Duty - Employee is paid an hourly rate plus commissions.

Summary:
Perform towing, accident recovery, and abandoned vehicle recovery using the assigned truck and towing equipment correctly as trained. Present to customers a professional self-image and Company image through excellent service, safe operation, and timeliness. Maintain truck and equipment in compliance with Company guidelines. Perform necessary documentation in a timely and correct manner according to procedures in effect.

Benefits:
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan with Employer Match.
  • Profit-Sharing Plan.
  • Supplemental Life Insurance.
  • Paid Vacation & Holidays.
  • Opportunities for Growth & Advancement.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: (All other duties as assigned.)
  • Excellent driving skills and a valid CDL A driver’s license (copy required during interview).
  • Ability to operate a tow truck (experience preferred but not required); heavy-duty wreckers.
  • Accurately calculate tow rates and understand tariffs to write complete and accurate paperwork.
  • Must have a general understanding of vehicle mechanics, transmission types, front, and rear wheel drive vehicles.
  • Have a clean driving record and excellent work references.
  • Have a positive attitude, a great work ethic, and be team-oriented.
  • Able to write and speak English well, and be able to communicate effectively with others.
  • Work on call, be conscientious about answering your phone when on call, and communicate with your team efficiently.
  • Have no physical limitations against working in summer heat, winter cold, and rain.
  • Be able to work at night and early mornings. This job requires intermittent periods during which continuous physical exertion is required, such as walking, standing, stooping, crouching, climbing, lifting, twisting, kneeling, and maneuvering material or equipment, some of which may be heavy (75+ pounds) or awkwardly shaped.
Supervisory Responsibilities: Directly supervises 0 employees.

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:
  • CDL A.
  • DOT Medical Certification.
  • Must be 25 years of age or older with a clean driving record.
  • Towing certifications – Preferred but not required.

Safety and Security:
  • Observe safety and security procedures at ALL times.
  • Determine appropriate action beyond guidelines.
  • Report potentially unsafe conditions.
  • Use equipment and materials properly.

Qualifications:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.