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Wrecker Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Wheel Lift Driver

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$30 - $40/hr

A Wheel Lift Driver is responsible for safely towing, transporting, and recovering vehicles using a wheel lift tow truck. This position requires operating towing equipment, responding to service ...

Experienced hands -At least two years of turning wrecks into road-ready rides. * Frame and structural know-how -If you can pull, straighten, and square it up, we want you. * No-shortcuts mentality ...

Experienced hands -At least two years of turning wrecks into road-ready rides. * Frame and structural know-how -If you can pull, straighten, and square it up, we want you. * No-shortcuts mentality ...

Experienced hands -At least two years of turning wrecks into road-ready rides. * Frame and structural know-how -If you can pull, straighten, and square it up, we want you. * No-shortcuts mentality ...

Experienced hands -At least two years of turning wrecks into road-ready rides. * Frame and structural know-how -If you can pull, straighten, and square it up, we want you. * No-shortcuts mentality ...

Experienced hands -At least two years of turning wrecks into road-ready rides. * Frame and structural know-how -If you can pull, straighten, and square it up, we want you. * No-shortcuts mentality ...

Experienced hands -At least two years of turning wrecks into road-ready rides. * Frame and structural know-how -If you can pull, straighten, and square it up, we want you. * No-shortcuts mentality ...

Experienced hands -At least two years of turning wrecks into road-ready rides. * Frame and structural know-how -If you can pull, straighten, and square it up, we want you. * No-shortcuts mentality ...

Experienced hands -At least two years of turning wrecks into road-ready rides. * Frame and structural know-how -If you can pull, straighten, and square it up, we want you. * No-shortcuts mentality ...

Experienced hands -At least two years of turning wrecks into road-ready rides. * Frame and structural know-how -If you can pull, straighten, and square it up, we want you. * No-shortcuts mentality ...

Experienced hands -At least two years of turning wrecks into road-ready rides. * Frame and structural know-how -If you can pull, straighten, and square it up, we want you. * No-shortcuts mentality ...

Experienced hands -At least two years of turning wrecks into road-ready rides. * Frame and structural know-how -If you can pull, straighten, and square it up, we want you. * No-shortcuts mentality ...

Experienced hands -At least two years of turning wrecks into road-ready rides. * Frame and structural know-how -If you can pull, straighten, and square it up, we want you. * No-shortcuts mentality ...

Showing results 21-40

Wrecker information

See Washington salary details

$19

$28

$35

How much do wrecker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for wrecker in Washington is $28.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $25.34 and $30.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a wrecker?

A wrecker, also known as a tow truck operator, is a professional who operates vehicles designed to move disabled, improperly parked, impounded, or otherwise indisposed vehicles. Wreckers are commonly called to accident scenes to remove damaged vehicles or to tow cars that have broken down. Their job involves securing vehicles, ensuring safe transport, and often assisting with roadside emergencies. In addition to technical skills, wreckers must follow safety regulations and sometimes handle challenging situations with customers or traffic.

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

To thrive as a Wrecker (tow truck operator), you need a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL), safe driving skills, and knowledge of vehicle recovery techniques. Familiarity with hydraulic winches, flatbed tow trucks, and GPS dispatch systems is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, customer service skills, and resilience under stress set top performers apart. These competencies ensure safe, efficient vehicle recovery and positive client interactions, even in challenging roadside situations.

What are some common safety challenges faced by wreckers and how are they addressed on the job?

As a Wrecker (tow truck operator), you often work in high-traffic areas, inclement weather, and emergency situations, which can pose safety risks. To address these challenges, operators must follow strict safety protocols, including wearing high-visibility clothing, using proper signaling devices, and maintaining clear communication with dispatch and law enforcement. Regular vehicle inspections and ongoing safety training are also standard practices to minimize risks and ensure both personal and public safety during recovery operations.

What is the difference between Wrecker vs Tow Truck Driver?

AspectWreckerTow Truck Driver
CertificationsCommercial Driver's License (CDL), Wreckmaster certificationCDL often required, specialized training varies
Work EnvironmentAccident scenes, roadside, towing yardsRoadside, accident sites, parking lots
Employer & IndustryAuto repair shops, towing companies, roadside assistanceTransport companies, roadside assistance services

Wreckers and Tow Truck Drivers both operate in the towing industry, often sharing certifications like a CDL. Wreckers typically handle accident recovery and heavy-duty towing at accident scenes, while Tow Truck Drivers focus on roadside assistance and light-duty towing. Both roles require roadside presence and safety awareness, but wreckers often have more specialized training for accident recovery.

How to get a job as a wrecker?

To become a wrecker, you typically need a valid driver's license, a clean driving record, and experience operating heavy-duty tow trucks. Many employers require a high school diploma or equivalent and may provide on-the-job training or certification in vehicle recovery and safety procedures.

What are popular job titles related to Wrecker jobs in Washington?

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

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

The top searched job categories for Wrecker jobs in Washington are:

Infographic showing various Wrecker job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $58,375 per year, or $28.1 per hour.

Wheel-lift Tow Truck Driver/Operator-Night Shift

Past & Present Towing

Laurel, MD • On-site

$800 - $1.5K/wk

Full-time

Life, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Wheel-lift/Wrecker Tow operator Job Description
EXPERIENCED ONLY: 1-3 YRS OF EXPERIENCE WITH WHEEL-LIFT.
SHIFT: Sun-Fri 9PM-8AM .
Summary: Perform emergency road service, towing, and abandoned vehicle recovery using assigned truck and towing equipment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following:
  • Provide towing and roadside assistance in a safe, professional, and timely manner, free of accident, injury, damage in all weather conditions
  • MUST be able to maneuver in small spaces with truck.
  • 2+ Yrs of Experience is preferred for this position
  • Complete pre-trip inspection sheets daily
  • Perform lock outs for customers who have locked their keys in their car.
  • Positions blocks and ties rope around items to secure cargo during transit.
  • Maintain truck fluid levels according to manufacturer standards;
  • Maintain consistently excellent attendance
  • Abide by all Federal, State, and Municipal laws, rules and ordinances and maintain a clean driving record
  • Maintain truck and equipment in a safe, clean state, operating it in a safe and professional manner
  • Attend driver and employee meetings as requested for job and safety information
  • Attend training and achieve professional certification as directed by management
  • Assist in training new employees when requested
  • Cleaning the inside and the outside of the truck.
  • Attending safety meetings and training classes.
General Expectations
  • Arrive at work on time daily, ready for duty when shift starts;
  • Be well groomed wearing a clean uniform, boots with traction
  • Complete and turn-in pre-trip truck inspections prior to beginning duty each shift;
  • Pay is commission 
Experience and Requirements
  • Be able to perform physical duties (lift 70+lbs.)
  • Able to put basic knowledge of cars to use
  • Clean Driving Record
  • Clean Criminal Background
  • Ability to obtain DOT card
Past and Present Towing and Recovery Inc. provided the following inclusive hiring information:
We are an equal opportunity employer and considers all qualified applicants equally without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability status.
Job Type: Full-time
Benefits:
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
Shift availability:
  • Night Shift (Available) Mon-Sat: 9P-8A
Ability to Commute:
  • Laurel, MD 20707 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
  • Laurel, MD 20707: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person