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Tow Operator Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Crane Operator (3rd shift)

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$24.82 - $27.43/hr

Other duties: operating banding equipment, packaging material and tow-motor operation. Pay Range: $24.82 - $27.43 per hour Qualifications: * Qualified candidates must have 1 year experience in the ...

Crane Operator (3rd shift)

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$24.82 - $27.43/hr

Other duties: operating banding equipment, packaging material and tow-motor operation. Pay Range: $24.82 - $27.43 per hour Qualifications: * Qualified candidates must have 1 year experience in the ...

LOCK AND DAM OPERATOR

Welch, MN · On-site +1

$32.90 - $38.41/hr

Exercises primary authority over the use of lock through issuance of instructions to tow boat captains and other craft operators, the setting of precedence of entry, and maintaining proper procedural ...

Showing results 21-40

Tow Operator information

See Minnesota salary details

$11

$21

$39

How much do tow operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for tow operator in Minnesota is $21.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.97 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 typically requires physical strength, driving skills, and sometimes certification, with opportunities for steady employment in transportation or roadside service companies.

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.

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 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 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 are popular job titles related to Tow Operator jobs in Minnesota? For Tow Operator jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Tow Operator jobs in Minnesota look for? The top searched job categories for Tow Operator jobs in Minnesota are:
What are popular job titles related to Tow Operator jobs in MN? For Tow Operator jobs in MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Tow Operator job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 44% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,053 per year, or $21.7 per hour.

Crane Operator (3rd shift)

Olympic Steel

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

$24.82 - $27.43/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 17 days ago


Olympic Steel rating

7.5

Company rating: 7.5 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

About Olympic Steel:
Since 1954, Olympic Steel has been focused on safe, profitable, and sustainable growth through the direct sale of a wide range of processed metal products and several metal-intensive branded products. Guided by our Core Values, we put safety first - always, and we believe in cultivating an inclusive workplace where employee belonging, and empowerment are foundational to everything we do. Olympic Steel offers employees the best of both worlds: the culture and community of a closely connected team with the resources, opportunity and stability of a large, growing organization.
Job Description
The Crane Operator is responsible for safe efficient transfer of materials in the warehouse. Candidate must possess knowledge and skills of the capabilities, limitations and mechanical state of cranes, lifting devices and attachments. The person in this position is required to inspect the work area and machines and equipment daily for safe working conditions. Must be safety and quality conscious. Other duties: operating banding equipment, packaging material and tow-motor operation.
Pay Range: $24.82 - $27.43 per hour
Qualifications:
  • Qualified candidates must have 1 year experience in the related field.
  • Previous forklift experience is required.
  • Qualified candidates must be mechanically inclined, production oriented, and safety and quality conscious.
  • Basic math skills are required, a general knowledge of crane operation and ancillary lifting devices and a working knowledge of general computer programs are strongly preferred.
  • Must be able to lift/push/pull up to 50 pounds.
  • Ability to work on 3rd shift, 11:00pm - 7:00am, S-Th.

Why Work for Olympic Steel:
Olympic Steel offers comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision benefits; paid holidays and vacation; a 401(k) match; tuition reimbursement; and various opportunities to earn cash bonuses. And, we offer more than a competitive total compensation package. We provide our employees the ability to build a meaningful life-long career. When you work at Olympic Steel, you can make a significant impact - at our company, in the local community and in the world. See for yourself at IamOlympic
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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