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Wrecker Operator Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Dispatcher

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Other duties may be assigned. Ø Efficiently and accurately dispatches Operators and equipment for emergency and non-emergency service and ensures proper tracking of resources. Ø Utilize problem ...

... of wreckers, emergency medical services, fire services and other law enforcement services as well as maintenance and University call out services, operating a computerized information network ...

Showing results 41-52

Wrecker Operator information

See Virginia salary details

$17

$24

$31

How much do wrecker operator jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for wrecker operator in Virginia is $24.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.16 and $26.44 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 Virginia?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Wrecker Operator job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 41% Full Time, 57% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,099 per year, or $24.6 per hour.

Automotive Mechanic - Full Performance with Security Clearance

Amentum

Falls Church, VA • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

Applicants must have an Active Top Secret/SCI US Government clearance with Polygraph. Note: US Citizenship is required to maintain a Top Secret/SCI clearance with Polygraph. The Automotive Mechanic shall be responsible for performing all levels of maintenance on a fleet of vehicles/trucks/buses/ tow trucks. The Automotive Mechanic shall facilitate the purchasing of parts/equipment needed to maintain fleet and training vehicles; aid in the establishment of work priorities when necessary; execute a preventative maintenance program for vehicles and equipment; providing technical assistance on complex repair problems; and prepare written estimates of repairs and costs. Duties/Tasks and Responsibilities The contractor shall coordinate maintenance activities, provide technical direction and supervision to Developmental contractor personnel. Automotive/Heavy Duty Mechanics tasks include, but are not limited to, the following: * Coordinate with government staff focal point for approval of maintenance prioritization, levels of funding available, and office coverage of mechanics and or other technical personnel. * Oversee shop functions when the Supervisor is away. * Determines, within prescribed value range, when a major component/ assembly is to be replaced, repaired, rebuilt or discarded; responsible for assisting with the purchasing of parts and services required to maintain fleet and training vehicles; and prepares written estimates on cost and labor time for corrective repairs. * Execute a preventative maintenance program for vehicles and equipment. * Provide technical advice and assistance to developmental and full performance mechanics and others on either new or difficult and complex jobs. * Interacts with customers to keep them informed of status of Sponsor-owned vehicles, repairs needed, etc. Based on assignment, independently performs corrective maintenance and repairs to fleet, training, emergency or heavy equipment vehicles. * Inspects, diagnoses and isolates vehicle and equipment malfunctions; troubleshoots, traces and locates defects and/or causes of mechanical problems to determine type and extent of necessary repairs. * Repairs and/or recommends replacement of all assigned vehicles and equipment to ensure they are safe and dependable. * Utilize on-board computer diagnostic systems and other test equipment in order to test automotive computer control and emission systems; assesses and analyzes malfunctions of machinery using microcomputers, calipers, gauges, and other equipment. * Professionally interact with government management staff and customers to keep them informed of status of vehicles and repairs needed. * Perform preventative maintenance and repairs to fleet, emergency, training or heavy equipment vehicles. * Safely and properly operate wheel balancing equipment, and turning and grinding equipment for servicing brake drums and discs, and rotor assemblies. * Perform engine tune-ups, setting engine timing according to specifications. * Utilize appropriate techniques and procedures in accordance with manufacturer's specification in adjusting ballistic armor in certain vehicles as required. * Perform state vehicle safety and emission inspections on Sponsor-owned vehicles. * Based on assignment, performs administrative and other functions as related to wheeled vehicle and equipment maintenance. * Identify necessary parts, equipment and supplies needed to complete repair or preventative check. * Responds to emergency road calls for disabled Agency vehicles and makes minor adjustments or has the vehicle towed for back to Motor Pool for repairs. * Obtain a Class A Commercial Driver's License within six months of employment (with "P" endorsement) and safely drives wrecker and tows disabled Agency vehicles, trucks, and buses. * Road test vehicles as needed to verify maintenance/repair work. * Promptly respond to emails and telephone calls. * Ensure the necessary provision of vehicles and support for customers. * Perform other related duties as required or as directed by government management staff. * Maintain a highly organized, clean, and efficient maintenance shop on a government facility. * Comply with all OSHA regulations regarding waste disposal as well as adherence to shop standard operating procedures. * Make recommendations to government focal point regarding shop standard operating procedures and implement when approved. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities The Automotive Mechanic shall possess, or obtain as specified, the following KSAs: * Extensive knowledge of the operating systems used in motor vehicles. * Extensive knowledge of the practices and tools used in the maintenance and diagnostics of vehicles and equipment. * Considerable knowledge of computer, electrical, transistorized and other non-mechanical systems and how they tie-in with and affect the operation of mechanical systems. * Considerable knowledge of the full range of tools, equipment, test procedures and practices used in the repair and preventative maintenance of fleet and training vehicles. * Possess excellent interpersonal and customer service skills. * Possess good Information Technology skills and be familiar with MS Word, Excel, and be comfortable with working in various databases relevant to maintenance. * Experience in diagnosing complex mechanical and related malfunctions. * Proficiency in organizing and reading technical manuals, references and specifications and service and recall bulletins. * Written communication skills sufficient enough to write routine correspondences, maintenance logs and order forms. * Understanding of how to operate a forklift, power tools, wrenches, diagnostic equipment, and jacks. * Working knowledge of computers, including Access and MS Office Suite. * Ability to prioritize and schedule multiple work requirements. * Flexibility in work schedule. * Representational skills necessary to interact with outside vendors. * Working knowledge of diesel mechanics. * Understanding of how to fabricate simple parts. * Experience with welding basic items. * Ability to pass a 2-day government provided forklift certification class (training coordinated by the government sponsor) Minimum Qualifications Active TS/SCI Clearance with Polygraph. Experience: * Five years of experience in the problem diagnosis, repair and maintenance of a wide variety of light, medium, heavy and/or specialized automotive equipment and other heavy equipment. Education: * High school Diploma or GED equivalent. Special Certifications: * Virginia State Inspection (or within 90 days of start date) * Virginia Emission Inspections Certificate * Forklift Certification * Depending office of assignment, HAZMAT certification maybe required or desired * Possess a valid Class A CDL with passenger endorsement (or within 90 days of start date) * Possess a clean driving record * (U) Negative point accumulation is not to exceed minus four (-4) points * (U) Zero (0) driving suspensions or revocations * (U) Zero (0) incidents of serious motor vehicle violation, including, but not limited, to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; reckless driving; leaving the scene of an accident, or a series of convictions that reflect a pattern of unsafe behavior * (U) Has not been assigned to any alcohol safety action program or driver alcohol rehabilitation program * (U) Has not been assigned to any driver improvement programs * Obtain and maintain a valid Forklift Operator's certificate every two years * ASE certification (provide to COTR within 30-days of employment). Depending upon specific position requirements one or more of the following may be required: * Five (5) or more National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Certifications or Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) master certificate or Major Automobile manufacturer certification or Major manufacturer college co-op program (e.g. General Motors Automotive Service Educational Program (FM ASEP), Ford's Automotive Student Service Educational Training (Ford Asset), MOPAR Career Automotive Program (MOPAR CAP) * Perform excellent customer service when engaging with clients. * Conduct administrative duties, including timecard management and annual training. * Hours Monday through Friday from 0930am-1800pm subject to change based on requirements Compensation Details:
US: $36.00 - $39.00 The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws. Benefits Overview: Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include: * Health, dental, and vision insurance * Paid time off and holidays * Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching) * Educational reimbursement * Parental leave * Employee stock purchase plan * Tax-saving options * Disability and life insurance * Pet insurance Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits. Original Posting:
06/18/2026 - Until Filled
Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs. Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military o