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Wrecker Operator Jobs in New York (NOW HIRING)

Operators will respond to roadside assistance calls, accidents, recoveries, and vehicle transport ... Experience with flatbeds, wheel lifts, and heavy wreckers. * Knowledge of vehicle recovery ...

Tow Truck Driver

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$900 - $1.2K/wk

We are looking for experienced tow truck operator with wrecker and flatbed experience. Good manners to deal with the customer and handle the truck with care. Drivers License DCA License Required ...

Roadside Assistance Driver (58418)

Union, NJ · On-site

$21.50 - $25.75/hr

Full-time Tow Truck Operator (Flatbed) available out of our Union NJ location Prior experience NOT ... wrecker). * Occasionally support other fleet locations, and have the flexibility to work nights ...

Endpoint Engineer

New York, NY · On-site

$216K - $254K/yr

... without wrecking the employee experience, software packaging and distribution, and secure ... Who you are * 8+ years building and operating secure endpoint or IT systems in complex environments ...

Wrecker Operator information

See New York salary details

$19

$27

$34

How much do wrecker operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for wrecker operator in New York is $27.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $24.47 and $29.18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wrecker operator?

Wrecker Operators, also known as tow truck drivers, are professionals responsible for operating specialized vehicles to tow or recover disabled, illegally parked, or damaged vehicles. Their duties include responding to dispatch calls, safely securing vehicles for transport, and ensuring compliance with safety and legal regulations. They may also provide roadside assistance such as jump-starts, tire changes, and lockout services. Wrecker Operators must have knowledge of vehicle mechanics, safety protocols, and local traffic laws. This role often requires a commercial driver’s license (CDL) and good customer service skills.

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

To thrive as a Wrecker Operator, you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), knowledge of vehicle recovery techniques, and a strong understanding of safety regulations. Familiarity with tow trucks, winches, hydraulic systems, and GPS or dispatch software is typically required. Excellent problem-solving, communication, and customer service skills help operators manage stressful situations and interact professionally with clients. These skills and qualifications ensure safe, efficient vehicle recovery and high-quality service in emergency or high-pressure environments.

What are some common challenges faced by wrecker operators on the job, and how can they be managed?

Wrecker Operators often work in unpredictable conditions, such as inclement weather, heavy traffic, or at accident scenes, which can present safety and logistical challenges. Staying vigilant, following strict safety protocols, and maintaining clear communication with dispatchers and law enforcement can help manage these situations. Additionally, operators must be adept at handling various types of vehicles and equipment, so ongoing training and familiarity with industry best practices are essential for efficiency and safety.

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

AspectWrecker OperatorTow Truck Driver
CertificationsCommercial driver's license (CDL), specialized wrecker operation trainingCommercial driver's license (CDL), basic towing certification
Work EnvironmentVehicle recovery sites, roadside, impound yardsRoadside, parking lots, impound yards
Employer & IndustryAuto repair shops, towing companies, roadside assistance servicesAuto repair shops, towing companies, roadside assistance services

Wrecker Operators and Tow Truck Drivers often share similar certifications and work environments, such as roadside recovery and impound yards. However, Wrecker Operators typically handle more complex recovery tasks and may require specialized training, whereas Tow Truck Drivers focus on transporting vehicles. Both roles are essential in the towing industry and often overlap in daily duties.

How to get a job as a wrecker operator?

To become a wrecker operator, candidates typically need a valid driver's license, often a commercial driver's license (CDL), and experience driving heavy vehicles. Training on vehicle recovery equipment and safety procedures is usually provided on the job, and some employers may require a clean driving record and physical fitness for the physically demanding work environment.

What are popular job titles related to Wrecker Operator jobs in New York?

For Wrecker Operator jobs in New York, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Wrecker Operator jobs in New York look for?

The top searched job categories for Wrecker Operator jobs in New York are:

What are popular job titles related to Wrecker Operator jobs in NY?

For Wrecker Operator jobs in NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Wrecker Operator job openings in New York 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 $56,388 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Heavy Duty Tow Truck Operator

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$40/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Job Opportunity

Our client is seeking motivated and dependable Heavy Duty Tow Truck Operators to join our growing team. Operators will respond to roadside assistance calls, accidents, recoveries, and vehicle transport while providing professional customer service. We are looking for individuals who are safety focused, reliable, and comfortable working in fast paced roadside environments.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Respond to dispatch calls for towing, recovery, and roadside assistance.
  • Safely operate heavy duty tow trucks and equipment.
  • Load, secure, transport, and unload vehicles or equipment.
  • Perform accident recovery and winching services when necessary.
  • Complete required paperwork and service reports.
  • Maintain communication with dispatch regarding job status and location.
  • Conduct daily inspections of trucks and equipment.
  • Provide professional and courteous service to customers, law enforcement, and motor clubs.

Requirements:

Required Qualifications:

  • Valid driver's license, CDL Class A.
  • Clean driving record.
  • Ability to pass background check and drug screening.
  • Ability to lift 50+ pounds and work in outdoor conditions.
  • Strong problem solving skills and ability to work independently.
  • Availability for nights, weekends, holidays, and on call shifts.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Previous towing or roadside assistance experience.
  • Experience with flatbeds, wheel lifts, and heavy wreckers.
  • Knowledge of vehicle recovery techniques.
  • Mechanical knowledge is a plus.

Benefits:

Competitive pay, starting at $40 per hour with a 60 day review. Overtime opportunities. Paid training for qualified candidates. Flexible schedules. Advancement opportunities within the company. 401(k) matching, health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, and paid time off. Supportive team environment.