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Tow Operator Jobs in Modesto, CA (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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

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 ...

Tow Truck Driver

Oakdale, CA · On-site

$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 ...

Tow Truck Driver

Oakdale, CA · On-site

$16.90 - $25.35/hr

Required Skills & Qualifications · High school diploma or equivalent. · Commercial Driver's License (CDL) required with a clean driving record. · Proven experience operating tow trucks or ...

Tow Truck Operators Whether you're just starting out or running a full operation, RidenRoll gives you the tools to succeed. *** Download the RidenRoll App in the App Store and/or Google Play

Fleet Operators * Taxi & Limo Services * Package Delivery Couriers * Tow Truck Professionals One app. One platform. Unlimited earning potential. Don't miss your chance to be part of the future of ...

Fleet Operators * Taxi & Limo Services * Package Delivery Couriers * Tow Truck Professionals One app. One platform. Unlimited earning potential. Don't miss your chance to be part of the future of ...

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Tow Operator information

See Modesto, CA salary details

$12

$23

$42

How much do tow operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for tow operator in Modesto, CA is $23.33, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.27 and $25.38 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 job categories do people searching Tow Operator jobs in Modesto, CA look for?

The top searched job categories for Tow Operator jobs in Modesto, CA are:

What cities near Modesto, CA are hiring for Tow Operator jobs?

Cities near Modesto, CA with the most Tow Operator job openings:

Infographic showing various Tow Operator job openings in Modesto, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $48,531 per year, or $23.3 per hour.

Tow Truck Driver

Haidlen Ford

Oakdale, CA • On-site

$19 - $25.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Position Summary: 

The Tow Truck Driver is responsible for the safe, efficient, and professional towing and roadside assistance of vehicles for customers and members of AAA and other service providers. This position serves as a key representative of the dealership's towing operations, providing timely response, courteous customer service, and adherence to all safety and regulatory standards. The Tow Truck Driver ensures vehicles are transported or serviced in a manner that prioritizes safety, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence. 

Key Responsibilities: Towing and Roadside Assistance Operations 
  • Respond promptly to dispatch calls for towing, recovery, or roadside assistance. 
  • Safely load, secure, and transport vehicles using flatbed or wheel-lift tow trucks. 
  • Provide emergency roadside assistance, including battery jump-starts, tire changes, fuel delivery, and lockout services. 
  • Follow all AAA and dealership procedures for service calls, ensuring accuracy and professionalism. 
  • Inspect vehicles prior to transport and document condition, location, and service details. 
  • Ensure all transported or serviced vehicles are handled with care and delivered in the same condition as received. 
Customer Service and Communication 
  • Provide courteous and empathetic assistance to stranded motorists, ensuring their comfort and safety. 
  • Maintain clear communication with dispatch, management, and customers regarding estimated arrival times and service updates. 
  • Represent the dealership and AAA brand with professionalism, integrity, and a customer-first attitude. 
  • Collect and document required customer signatures, payments, and service details accurately. 
Safety and Compliance 
  • Operate tow vehicles in compliance with state and federal traffic laws, DOT regulations, and dealership safety standards. 
  • Conduct pre- and post-trip inspections of tow trucks to ensure roadworthiness and report any maintenance issues immediately. 
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and professional tow truck and equipment. 
  • Participate in required safety and AAA certification training sessions. 
Administrative and Operational Duties 
  • Accurately complete tow logs, call tickets, trip sheets, and required digital or paper documentation. 
  • Track vehicle deliveries, service calls, and related customer or dispatch notes. 
  • Assist with equipment checks, fuel logs, and maintenance scheduling as needed. 
  • Support the towing department in maintaining efficiency, readiness, and compliance with AAA performance standards. 
Qualifications: Required Skills & Qualifications 
  • High school diploma or equivalent. 
  • Valid driver's license with a clean driving record. 
  • Proven experience operating tow trucks or providing roadside assistance. 
  • Working knowledge of vehicle loading, securement, and recovery procedures. 
  • Strong communication and customer service skills. 
  • Ability to remain calm and professional in stressful roadside conditions. 
  • Must be dependable, safety-conscious, and able to work independently. 
  • Must be able to pass background screening. 
  • Must be able to pass a pre-employment and future random drug screening. 
  • Ability to complete and pass a DOT medical exam. 
Preferred Qualifications 
  • Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a clean driving record. 
  • AAA or similar roadside assistance experience. 
  • Certification in towing and recovery operations (WreckMaster, TRAA, or equivalent). 
  • Familiarity with digital dispatch systems or mobile service reporting tools. 
  • Light mechanical experience preferred (jump starts, tire service, etc.). 
Physical Requirements: 
  • Regularly required to stand, walk, bend, kneel, and climb in and out of vehicles. 
  • Must be able to lift, push, or pull up to 50 pounds. 
  • Frequent exposure to outdoor weather conditions and roadside environments. 
  • Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 
Work Environment: 
  • Primarily field-based, responding to roadside service calls and towing requests. 
  • Regular exposure to varying weather and traffic conditions. 
  • Requires flexibility to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and on-call rotations. 
  • Frequent interaction with customers, law enforcement, and dispatch personnel. 
  • Required use of personal protective equipment (PPE). 
  • This position requires wearing a company-issued uniform while on duty.