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Tow Operator Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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TOW TRUCK DRIVER

Salinas, CA · On-site

$42K - $80K/yr

IN SALINAS, SOLEDAD, AND KING CITY CA YOU WILL BE RESPONSIBLE OF OPERATING A TRUCK WITH UP TO 26,000 LBS. RESPONSIBILITIES Load and unload vehicles using a tow truck Unlock vehicles using tools ...

Haidlen Ford

Tow Truck Driver

Oakdale, CA · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Proven experience operating tow trucks or providing roadside assistance. * Working knowledge of vehicle loading, securement, and recovery procedures. * Strong communication and customer service ...

Haidlen Ford

Tow Truck Driver

Oakdale, CA

$16.90 - $18/hr

Proven experience operating tow trucks or providing roadside assistance. * Working knowledge of vehicle loading, securement, and recovery procedures. * Strong communication and customer service ...

Haidlen Ford

Tow Truck Driver

Oakdale, CA · On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Proven experience operating tow trucks or providing roadside assistance. * Working knowledge of vehicle loading, securement, and recovery procedures. * Strong communication and customer service ...

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Tow Operator information

See California salary details

$11

$21

$39

How much do tow operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for tow operator in California is $21.83, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.07 and $23.70 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a tow operator?

Tow operators are professionals responsible for operating tow trucks to transport disabled, illegally parked, or damaged vehicles. They respond to roadside assistance calls, recover vehicles involved in accidents, and move vehicles as required by law enforcement or private property owners. Tow operators must have specialized driving skills, knowledge of vehicle recovery techniques, and often hold commercial driver's licenses. They also interact with customers and sometimes handle paperwork related to vehicle towing and storage.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a tow operator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Tow Operator, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), strong driving skills, and a solid understanding of vehicle recovery and towing procedures. Familiarity with tow trucks, winches, GPS navigation, and dispatch systems is typically required. Excellent communication, problem-solving abilities, and customer service skills help you handle stressful situations and interact effectively with clients and law enforcement. These skills are crucial for ensuring safety, efficiency, and professionalism during vehicle recovery and roadside assistance.

What are some common challenges tow operators face during their shifts?

Tow Operators often encounter challenges such as working in adverse weather conditions, navigating heavy traffic, and dealing with vehicles in difficult-to-access locations. They must also handle high-stress situations, such as assisting stranded motorists or responding to accident scenes, while prioritizing safety for themselves and others. Effective communication with dispatchers, law enforcement, and customers is essential to manage these challenges efficiently and maintain a professional service.

What is the difference between Tow Operator vs Roadside Assistance Technician?

AspectTow OperatorRoadside Assistance Technician
CredentialsDriver's license, CDL often preferredDriver's license, basic automotive knowledge
Work EnvironmentRoadside, towing yards, highwaysOn-site at breakdowns, roadside locations
Employer & IndustryTowing companies, auto repair shopsAuto clubs, roadside assistance services
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both Tow Operators and Roadside Assistance Technicians work in roadside support, Tow Operators primarily focus on towing vehicles from accident sites or breakdowns, often requiring CDL licenses. Roadside Assistance Technicians handle minor repairs, tire changes, and jump-starts on-site. The roles overlap in work environment and industry usage, but Tow Operators typically handle more complex towing tasks, whereas Roadside Assistance Technicians focus on quick fixes and minor repairs.

Is tow operator a good career?

A tow operator is a skilled worker responsible for vehicle recovery and roadside assistance, often working outdoors and in various weather conditions. The job can offer steady employment and opportunities for certification in vehicle recovery and safety, but it may involve physically demanding work and irregular hours. Overall, it can be a stable career for those interested in automotive and roadside services.

What are popular job titles related to Tow Operator jobs in California?

For Tow Operator jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Tow Operator jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Tow Operator jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Tow Operator jobs?

Cities in California with the most Tow Operator job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Tow Operator jobs in CA?

For Tow Operator jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Tow Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tow Operator job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 55% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,398 per year, or $21.8 per hour.

Emergency Roadside Tow Driver

AAA Northern California, Nevada & Utah

Fairfield, CA • On-site

$27.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

Why Work For Us?
  • Great Pay - opportunity to participate in AAA discretionary annual incentive plan or other incentive plans depending upon position
  • 401k Matching - $1 for $1 company match up to 6% of eligible earnings per pay period
  • Benefits - Medical, Dental, Vision, wellness program and more!
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time Off - Team Members accrue paid time off monthly. Depending on position, an additional 24 hours per year are earmarked for volunteer activities.
  • Collaborative Environment - AAA will value your contribution to providing exceptional service to our members
  • Free AAA Classic Membership
  • AAA Product Discounts
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program

Job Description
Tow Service Specialist
Location: Fairfield, CA | Schedule: 2pm/4pm - 10:30pm/12:30am
(Includes Weekends)
Starting Pay: $25.25hr + Lucrative Shift Differentials & Monthly Bonuses
Join a Culture of People Helping People.
Ever wanted a job where you genuinely save the day? At AAA Mountain West Group (MWG), we don't just hire tow operators-we hire Roadside Heroes. When our members are stranded, stressed, or having their worst day, you are the face of AAA arriving on the scene to bring safety, solutions, and peace of mind.
If you have a great attitude and a desire to learn, we will provide all the training you need to build a successful, secure career.
Why Join AAA MWG? (The Perks & Pay)
We believe in rewarding our heroes well. We offer a highly competitive earning scale, guaranteed hours, and a robust benefits package that ensures your financial and personal well-being.
💰 Earnings & Financial Wellbeing
  • Guaranteed Hours: Minimum of 40 hours per week (steady income you can rely on).
  • Base Pay: Starting at $27.50/hour.
  • Shift Differentials: Earn an extra $0.75 to $1.50 more per hour depending on your hours and days worked.
  • Productivity Incentives: Earn up to an additional $1,900 extra per month just by doing the job you're trained to do!
  • 401(k) Retirement: Automatic 3% enrollment (increasing 1% annually) with a company match of up to 6%.
  • Commuter Benefits: Save on taxes by setting aside up to $680/month for transit or parking.

🏥 Health & Wellness Benefits
  • Medical Choices: Choose from our flexible Red, White, or Blue tiers to fit your budget.
  • HSA Company Contribution: Enroll in the Blue Tier, and AAA will contribute $1,000 (Individual) or $2,000 (Family) annually to your health savings.
  • Mental Health Support: 6 free annual sessions with therapists or coaches via Modern Health for you and your family.
  • Dental & Vision: Full coverage for preventive checkups and cleanings.
  • Life Insurance: Company-paid Basic Life and AD&D insurance (1x your annual salary).

🌴 Time Off & Extra Perks
  • Generous PTO: Accrue up to 136 hours (17 days) of Paid Time Off in your very first year.
  • Paid Holidays: 11 paid holidays per year.
  • Tuition Reimbursement: Ready to grow? We reimburse up to $5,250 per year for job-related degrees or certifications (eligible after 6 months).
  • Free AAA Membership: Enjoy a Free AAA Classic Membership and exclusive discounts on home/auto insurance.

What You'll Do (Key Responsibilities)
As the face of AAA, you will provide ultimate customer excellence on the road by:
  • Operating tow trucks safely and efficiently.
  • Performing simple vehicle diagnostics to figure out the issue.
  • Providing essential roadside assistance, including tire changes, fuel delivery, and vehicle lock-outs.
  • Building trust, problem-solving, and being a calming presence for our members on the scene.

What We Are Looking For
  • We provide top-tier, paid training for the role.
  • A customer-first mindset and a passion for helping people.
  • Willingness and flexibility to work the between 2pm - 12:30am, including weekends.
  • A valid driver's license and a clean driving record
  • Must be at least 21 years of age

$23.75 to $25.25 hourly pay (depending on location) with potential to make up to an additional $1,900 per month with quality and productivity incentives
AAA Northern California, Nevada & Utah logo

About AAA Northern California, Nevada & Utah

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

AAA (the American Automobile Association, Inc.) is a federation of affiliated automobile clubs. Each AAA club is an independent, not-for-profit organization, chartered and incorporated in its own state and controlled by its own Board of Directors. In order to be affiliated with AAA, each club agrees to provide certain standard services to its own members, as well as members of other AAA clubs. The individual club owns the territory in which it resides, and membership is based on residence. Exact dues and services will vary slightly between clubs.

Industry

Insurance carriers

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Walnut Creek, CA, US

Year founded

1900

Social media

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