Tow Truck Operator

Vehicle Towing and Transportation

• Respond to service calls and dispatches to tow vehicles that have broken down, been involved in accidents, or need transport for other reasons.
• Safely secure and transport vehicles using flatbed or wheel-lift tow trucks, ensuring the vehicle is stable and protected during transit.
• Operate winches, chains, and other towing equipment to load vehicles onto the tow truck without causing damage.
• Tow vehicles to repair shops, impound lots, junkyards, or other locations as directed by dispatch, law enforcement, or customers.

Roadside Assistance

• Provide basic roadside services to stranded motorists, including jump-starting dead batteries, changing flat tires, and delivering fuel.
• Assist with vehicle lockouts by unlocking doors without damaging the vehicle.
• Perform minor mechanical fixes on-site, if possible, to help customers avoid the need for towing.

Accident Recovery

• Safely recover vehicles from accident scenes, often in difficult or hazardous conditions, including overturned or heavily damaged vehicles.
• Work with law enforcement, emergency responders, and other personnel to clear accident scenes quickly and efficiently, while adhering to safety regulations.
• Use specialized recovery equipment like winches, pulleys, and dollies to retrieve vehicles from ditches, embankments, or other difficult-to-reach areas.

Safety Protocols

• Follow all safety procedures when operating the tow truck and handling vehicles, including using proper signals, lighting, and protective gear.
• Secure towed vehicles properly to avoid accidents or damage during transport.
• Be aware of traffic and road hazards, ensuring the safety of themselves, other drivers, and pedestrians.
• Comply with state and federal regulations regarding towing operations, load limits, and transportation safety.

Customer Service

• Communicate with customers in a professional and empathetic manner, understanding that many will be stressed or upset due to the situation.
• Provide clear explanations of towing services, roadside assistance, and any costs involved.
• Keep customers informed about estimated arrival times and status updates during delays.
• Maintain a positive and helpful attitude when interacting with customers, especially during emergency situations.

Documentation and Record Keeping

• Accurately complete all required paperwork for each tow, including service reports, receipts, and vehicle condition reports.
• Record any damage to the vehicle before towing, to protect against claims of damage during transport.
• Handle insurance paperwork and liaise with law enforcement or insurance agents when necessary.
• Keep track of mileage, fuel consumption, and maintenance schedules for the tow truck.

Vehicle and Equipment Maintenance

• Regularly inspect and maintain tow trucks and related equipment to ensure they are in good working condition.
• Perform or arrange for routine maintenance, such as oil changes, tire checks, and brake inspections, to ensure the truck operates safely.
• Check the condition of towing equipment, such as winches, cables, chains, and lights, and report or repair any damage or wear.

Communication with Dispatch

• Stay in regular communication with the dispatch centre to receive and confirm service requests.
• Report the status of tows and any issues encountered, such as delays, vehicle complications, or safety concerns.
• Update dispatch with estimated times of arrival and completion of jobs to ensure timely response to other calls.

Qualifications:

• Valid driver’s license with a clean driving record.
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required depending on the size of the tow truck.
• Tow truck operator certification or state-issued tow truck endorsement (where applicable).
• Certification in basic roadside assistance skills, such as tire changing and battery jump-starting will be beneficial.
• Proficient in operating different types of tow trucks, including flatbed, wheel-lift, and hook-and-chain models.
• Ability to use winches, straps, hooks, and other towing equipment.
• Basic knowledge of vehicle mechanics for roadside repairs and troubleshooting.
• Ability to assess situations quickly and determine the safest and most efficient way to tow or recover vehicles.
• Experience in dealing with complex towing situations, such as vehicles stuck in ditches, tight spaces, or damaged in accidents.
• Strong communication skills to interact with customers, law enforcement, and other personnel.
• Empathy and patience when dealing with distressed customers in stressful situations.
• Ability to explain towing procedures and costs clearly to customers.
• Ability to lift heavy equipment, such as chains and winches, and perform physically demanding tasks in various weather conditions.