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Tow Operator Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cogent Talent Solutions

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 ...

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How much do tow operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for tow operator in the United States is $22.12, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $24.04 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are tow operators?

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 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.

More about Tow Operator jobs
What cities are hiring for Tow Operator jobs? Cities with the most Tow Operator job openings:
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Tow Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Tow Operator job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, and 40% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,000 per year, or $22.1 per hour.

Tow Truck Operator

Cogent Talent Solutions

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$22 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Position Summary:
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 large-scale recoveries, while also handling light-duty towing and roadside service for passenger vehicles. The ideal candidate is versatile, safety-conscious, and committed to providing professional customer service in both heavy and light-duty operations.
Key Responsibilities
  • Safely operate heavy-duty wreckers and recovery equipment to tow and recover commercial trucks, buses, and heavy machinery.
  • Perform light-duty towing and roadside assistance for passenger vehicles, including jump starts, lockouts, tire changes, and fuel deliveries.
  • Assess accident and breakdown scenes, determine recovery needs, and execute plans in a safe, efficient manner.
  • Properly rig, secure, and transport vehicles of all sizes using approved equipment and methods.
  • Communicate with dispatch, customers, and emergency responders to coordinate safe and timely service.
  • Complete accurate service tickets, condition reports, and time logs for all calls.
  • Conduct daily inspections of trucks and towing equipment; report any maintenance issues.
  • Adhere to DOT, OSHA, and company safety standards in all towing and recovery operations.
  • Represent the company with professionalism and courtesy at every call.

Qualifications
  • Experience operating heavy wreckers or recovery equipment (preferred).
  • Prior light-duty towing or roadside assistance experience a plus.
  • Strong knowledge of recovery, rigging, and safety techniques for both light and heavy vehicles.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and on-call rotations.
  • Strong communication skills and customer service mindset.

Benefits
  • Competitive pay
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement plan with company match
  • Paid time off and holidays

$22 - $30 an hour
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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