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Heavy Wrecker 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 ...

CDL-A Wrecker Operator

IN · On-site

$80K - $150K/yr

We are hiring a CDL-A Heavy Duty Tow Truck Driver for commercial vehicle towing, recovery, and ... Operate wreckers and recovery equipment safely * Communicate clearly with dispatch and customers

We are hiring a CDL-A Heavy Duty Tow Truck Driver for commercial vehicle towing, recovery, and ... Operate wreckers and recovery equipment safely * Communicate clearly with dispatch and customers

CDL-A Wrecker Operator

Wadsworth, IL · On-site

$80K - $150K/yr

We are hiring a CDL-A Heavy Duty Tow Truck Driver for commercial vehicle towing, recovery, and ... Operate wreckers and recovery equipment safely * Communicate clearly with dispatch and customers

CDL-A Wrecker Operator

IN · On-site

$80K - $150K/yr

We are hiring a CDL-A Heavy Duty Tow Truck Driver for commercial vehicle towing, recovery, and ... Operate wreckers and recovery equipment safely * Communicate clearly with dispatch and customers

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Heavy Wrecker Operator information

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How much do heavy wrecker operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for heavy wrecker operator in the United States is $24.78, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.36 and $26.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are Heavy Wrecker Operators?

Heavy Wrecker Operators are specialized tow truck drivers trained to recover, tow, and transport large vehicles such as buses, trucks, and construction equipment. They operate heavy-duty wreckers, which are powerful tow trucks designed for challenging recovery situations, including accident scenes and breakdowns involving oversized or overweight vehicles. These operators must have advanced driving skills, knowledge of safety protocols, and often require a commercial driver’s license (CDL) with additional endorsements. Their job is crucial for keeping highways clear and assisting in emergency situations involving large vehicles.

What is the difference between Heavy Wrecker Operator vs Tow Truck Driver?

AspectHeavy Wrecker OperatorTow Truck Driver
CredentialsCommercial driver's license (CDL), specialized trainingCommercial driver's license (CDL), basic towing certification
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, highways, heavy-duty recovery zonesUrban and highway roadside assistance, accident scenes
Industry UsageHeavy-duty vehicle recovery, industrial towingLight to medium-duty vehicle towing, roadside assistance

Both roles require a CDL and specialized training, but Heavy Wrecker Operators typically handle larger, more complex recoveries in industrial or construction settings, while Tow Truck Drivers focus on roadside assistance and light vehicle towing. The roles overlap in licensing and work environment but differ in scope and vehicle size handled.

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

To thrive as a Heavy Wrecker Operator, you need a commercial driver's license (CDL), knowledge of towing procedures, and experience operating heavy recovery vehicles. Familiarity with hydraulic winches, rigging equipment, and GPS or dispatch systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective communication are valuable soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure safe and efficient recovery operations while minimizing risk and delivering reliable service under pressure.

What are some of the typical challenges faced by Heavy Wrecker Operators on the job?

Heavy Wrecker Operators often deal with challenging weather conditions, difficult terrain, and high-traffic environments when recovering large vehicles. Safety is a major concern, as operators must coordinate with law enforcement and other roadside personnel to secure accident scenes. Additionally, handling specialized equipment requires physical stamina and technical expertise, and operators must often respond to emergencies outside of regular hours. Effective communication and rapid decision-making are crucial to ensure both efficiency and safety during recovery operations.
More about Heavy Wrecker Operator jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Heavy Wrecker Operator jobs? The most popular types of Heavy Wrecker Operator jobs are:
What states have the most Heavy Wrecker Operator jobs? States with the most job openings for Heavy Wrecker Operator jobs include:
Infographic showing various Heavy Wrecker Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,541 per year, or $24.8 per hour.

Heavy Wrecker Tow Driver (CDL-A)

Calo Companies

Northville, MI • On-site

$17.50 - $24/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Salary: Based on experience

Antonio's Towing and Recovery is hiring! We are looking for an experienced heavy wrecker tow truck driver. This is a regular, full-time, year-round, local company driver position. The driver will be responsible for safely loading/ unloading and transporting heavy or specialized vehicles.


Responsibilities:

  • Safely operate an heavy wrecker and similar equipment
  • Properly track and document activity log
  • Inspect truck and trailer before and after trip
  • Report any issues or incidents to dispatch
  • Safe and skilled maneuverability and backing
  • Ability to calculate weights of equipment with truck/trailer combo to stay within DOT permitting restrictions and guidelines
  • Knowledge of FMCSA cargo securement rules and regulations
  • Communicate with dispatchers, other drivers and customers in a professional manor

Required Qualifications:

  • Driver's License
  • CDL-A
  • Have or be able to obtain a DOT medical card
  • Pass pre-employment drug screen
  • Previous experience with operating a heavy wrecker tow truck.

Physical Demands:

  • Frequent physical effort, including standing, is required during a regular work shift of at least eight hours per day. Employee must be able to stand for extended periods of time, and to stoop, bend, and crouch as required to perform key duties.
  • Frequently work with hands extended overhead, sometimes in conjunction with the operation of load binding devices.
  • Ability to lift, on a frequent basis, at least 50 pounds and carry at least 30 pounds personally, and up to 150 pounds with assistance.
  • Manual dexterity to secure cargo utilizing chains and load binding devices on equipment
  • Maintain constant alertness to the multiple concurrent activities of the construction site, including the activities of other employees and contractors, the operation of stationary equipment, and the movement of mobile equipment.
  • Frequently walk on uneven surfaces, including natural ground in varying weather conditions.

Work Environment:

  • Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Work environment periodically exposes the employees to high levels of noise, grease, and dust that is typically associated with a construction project.
  • Employee regularly works near heavy equipment and moving machinery.
  • Work involves close proximity to high traffic areas , both in and out of construction zones
  • Work may involve a variety of substances commonly found on construction sites such as form oil, grease, curing compounds, gasoline, diesel fuel and ready mixed concrete.

Benefits:

Medical, dental, and vision insurance eligibility the first of the month following 30 days of employment

Medical, dental, and vision premiums covered 100% by employer

Short-term disability

401(k) plan with a 3% company match

Paid weekly

Paid time off

Referral program

Overtime Pay

Safety equipment provided


About us:

Antonios Towing and Recovery is part of the Calo and Sons Construction Inc. family of companies! Calo and Sons Construction Inc. is a family-owned company for over 30 years. Tony Calo began his adventure in the construction industry as a young child. His father started a trucking company back in 1957 and as a kid Tony spent much of his time riding around and watching his father work on construction jobs all over Detroit. This greatly inspired him and in 1993, Tony purchased his first truck and began his own company, Calo & Sons Construction.