Looking to jumpstart a career in roadside assistance? STUCK is hiring roadside assistance drivers to provide essential support that helps stranded motorists and customers get back on the road safely. Roadside assistance jobs offer a clear career path, competitive pay, and the everyday satisfaction of helping people during stressful situations. This guide covers what to expect, who can apply (entry-level candidates welcome; certifications preferred for some roles), and how to advance within the industry or with STUCK.
Ready to Start Your Roadside Assistance Career?
Get our step-by-step checklist with certification requirements, skills assessment, and application templates — or apply to join STUCK’s team now.
Types of Roadside Assistance Jobs
The roadside assistance industry includes a range of jobs and services, from hands-on field work to dispatch and management. Below are common roles to help you identify the right fit and see where you might start or grow your career with STUCK.
Tow Truck Operator
Tow truck operators transport disabled vehicles from roadways to repair facilities and operate winches, wheel lifts, and flatbeds.
- Typical requirement: CDL in many states — STUCK provides guidance on endorsements
- Daily example: secure and load a vehicle after roadside assessment (30–60 min)
- Involves heavy lifting and mechanical knowledge
- Often includes 24/7 on-call shifts; entry-level roles available with paid training
Mobile Mechanic
Mobile mechanics perform on-site diagnostics and minor repairs to get vehicles running without a tow.
- Typical requirement: automotive repair certification or equivalent experience
- Daily example: diagnose no-start condition and perform a 20–40 minute repair
- Requires strong diagnostic skills and tools inventory management
- Often works independently; STUCK supports routing technology for efficiency
Dispatcher
Dispatchers assign technicians to calls, manage routing, and communicate estimated arrival times to customers.
- Typical requirement: excellent communication and multitasking ability
- Daily example: route 10–20 service calls and coordinate technician status updates
- Knowledge of local geography and dispatch systems is essential
- Often an entry point into the industry with opportunities to move into operations
Battery Technician
Battery technicians test, jump, and replace vehicle batteries to quickly restore vehicle operation.
- Typical requirement: electrical system knowledge and battery diagnostics training
- Daily example: complete multiple 15–25 minute battery services per shift
- Less physically demanding than towing; may include minor sales of replacement batteries
- Often combined with other field roles for varied shifts
Lockout Specialist
Lockout specialists use precision tools to safely gain vehicle entry without damage.
- Typical requirement: lock mechanism training and familiarity with various vehicle makes
- Daily example: perform a non-damaging entry in 10–30 minutes and brief customer guidance
- Precision-focused work often paired with other roadside services
- STUCK provides tool kits and training for safe lockout techniques
Service Manager
Service managers oversee teams, scheduling, and service quality to ensure excellent customer outcomes.
- Typical requirement: prior field experience and leadership skills
- Daily example: manage shift schedules, review service metrics, and support team members
- Involves team leadership, conflict resolution, and performance coaching
- Clear career advancement path from technician to management at STUCK
Key Responsibilities in Emergency Vehicle Assistance
Working in roadside assistance means handling emergency situations professionally, safely, and with strong customer focus. At STUCK, team members follow clear procedures and receive training so they can support motorists effectively while protecting themselves and others on scene.
Safety Management
Your top responsibility is safety—for yourself, the stranded motorist, and other road users. STUCK trains new hires on practical safety steps, including:
- Setting up warning devices, traffic cones, and emergency lighting
- Wearing high-visibility clothing, gloves, and other PPE
- Positioning service vehicles to shield the work area
- Assessing environmental hazards like traffic and severe weather
- Following applicable DOT and OSHA guidance and company SOPs
Technical Assistance
Technicians provide a range of quick, on-scene services to restore vehicle operation or prepare it for tow:
- Jump-starting dead batteries and testing charging systems
- Changing flat tires and installing spares safely
- Performing minor mechanical repairs to get vehicles moving
- Towing and recovery using winches, wheel-lifts, or flatbeds
- Fuel delivery and safe lockout procedures without damage
Customer Service
Excellent customer service is central to STUCK’s mission. You’ll be expected to:
- Calm and reassure distressed motorists while explaining the plan
- Provide accurate arrival and completion time estimates
- Offer clear options and honest recommendations for next steps
- Handle payments, memberships, and paperwork per company process
- Leave a positive impression—helping people matters as much as the technical fix
Communication
Consistent communication with dispatch, customers, and other team members keeps operations smooth:
- Maintain regular status updates with dispatch and log call details
- Document services performed and any parts used accurately
- Explain technical issues to customers in plain terms
- Coordinate handoffs with repair shops when towing is required
- Report incidents or safety concerns to supervisors promptly
Master These Essential Responsibilities
Our career checklist and STUCK training materials include detailed SOPs, sample on-scene timelines, and preparation tips for each roadside assistance role.
Required Skills for Roadside Assistance Jobs
Success in roadside assistance blends hands-on technical ability with strong people skills. STUCK hires for both technical talent and customer-facing strengths, and we train new team members on the tools and soft skills that keep customers safe and satisfied.
Technical Skills
- Basic automotive mechanical knowledge (engines, brakes, drive systems)
- Diagnostic troubleshooting using OBD-II and handheld testers
- Proficiency with towing and recovery equipment (winches, wheel lifts, flatbeds)
- Battery testing, jump-start procedures, and safe replacement
- Tire changing and temporary repair techniques
- Safe lock-out tool operation and non-damaging entry methods
- Vehicle recovery and rigging best practices
- Familiarity with GPS, routing apps, and mobile dispatch technology
Non-Technical Skills
- Customer service excellence — calm, clear, and helpful under pressure
- Stress management and a steady, professional demeanor
- Problem-solving and quick decision-making on-scene
- Time management to meet response targets and improve efficiency
- Clear verbal communication with customers and team members
- Physical stamina and safe lifting techniques
- Strict attention to safety protocols and company SOPs
- Adaptability to changing road, weather, and vehicle conditions
Essential Certifications
Entry-level roles often include paid on-the-job training, but these certifications increase your hiring potential and pay prospects. STUCK may support certification reimbursement for qualified candidates.
ASE Certification
ASE credentials validate automotive skills across specialties and are widely respected by employers.
- Industry-recognized standard for technicians
- Multiple specialty exams available (electrical, brakes, engine repair)
- Check current ASE renewal policies and exam requirements before applying
CDL License
A Commercial Driver’s License is required for many towing roles depending on vehicle class and weight.
- Class A, B, or C depends on vehicle type — confirm which class STUCK requires for each truck
- Written and practical exams plus possible endorsements (air brakes, passenger)
- Subject to DOT regulations and medical/driver-record checks
WreckMaster & Industry Training
Specialized towing and recovery programs like WreckMaster teach advanced recovery techniques and safety.
- Practical, hands-on recovery training valued by employers
- Useful for technicians who handle heavy recoveries or complex scenes
- Ask STUCK recruitment about available training pathways and tuition support
Salary Ranges for Roadside Assistance Jobs
Compensation for roadside assistance roles varies by job, experience, certification, and location. Understanding typical pay ranges helps you set realistic expectations as you pursue jobs in the industry or apply to STUCK.
| Position | Entry-Level Salary | Mid-Career Salary | Experienced Salary | Top-Paying States |
| Tow Truck Operator | $28,000 – $35,000 | $36,000 – $45,000 | $46,000 – $65,000 | California, New York, Massachusetts |
| Mobile Mechanic | $32,000 – $40,000 | $41,000 – $52,000 | $53,000 – $70,000 | Alaska, Washington, New Jersey |
| Dispatcher | $25,000 – $32,000 | $33,000 – $42,000 | $43,000 – $55,000 | Illinois, Texas, Pennsylvania |
| Battery Technician | $26,000 – $34,000 | $35,000 – $44,000 | $45,000 – $58,000 | Connecticut, Colorado, Oregon |
| Service Manager | $42,000 – $55,000 | $56,000 – $70,000 | $71,000 – $90,000 | California, New York, Texas |
Factors Affecting Salary
Experience & Certification
Certified technicians and experienced team members generally earn more. Industry surveys indicate certifications such as ASE or WreckMaster can increase earning potential, and each year of experience commonly improves base pay — check current data or STUCK’s posted pay bands for specifics.
Company Size & Benefits
Large national providers and insurance-affiliated businesses often offer higher starting pay and more comprehensive benefits packages (health, retirement, tuition assistance). Local operators may offer more flexible schedules or quicker advancement. STUCK’s benefits and employee programs are listed on our careers page.
Shift Premiums
Night, weekend, and holiday shifts typically pay premiums. On-call rotations may include standby pay or additional compensation — exact rates vary by employer.
Commission & Bonus Structures
Some roles include commissions or performance bonuses for selling services, membership sign-ups, or meeting metrics, which can add materially to base pay.
Salary figures are based on industry salary surveys and BLS data; please verify current figures and regional differences. For STUCK-specific pay ranges, view our job listings or contact recruiting for the latest information.
Top Employers Hiring for Roadside Assistance Jobs
Several major companies and local operators regularly hire roadside assistance professionals. Employers vary by size and model—insurance-affiliated providers, tech platforms, and independent towing businesses each offer different pay, benefits, and career development opportunities.
AAA
The American Automobile Association is one of the largest providers of roadside assistance in the country.
- Comprehensive benefits package and employee programs
- Structured career advancement and training paths
- Nationwide employment opportunities and steady demand
- Extensive training programs for technicians and dispatch
- Member-focused service model with established procedures
Agero
Agero provides driver assistance services and technology, partnering with many insurers and fleet businesses.
- Technology-forward operations and modern dispatch systems
- Work-from-home dispatch and centralized support roles
- Competitive pay structures tied to performance
- Professional development and training resources
- Strong ties to the insurance and fleet markets
GEICO
GEICO maintains its own roadside assistance network and hires for field and support roles tied to insurance services.
- Robust corporate benefits and wellness programs
- Tuition or training support in some roles
- Opportunities to work within an insurance-backed service model
- Stable company operations and structured HR processes
- Potential for internal mobility and long-term careers
State Farm
State Farm supports roadside providers through its service network and offers a mix of corporate and local opportunities.
- Strong retirement and benefits packages
- Emphasis on community involvement and work-life balance
- Career development resources and nationwide openings
- Opportunities to work on insurance-contracted service teams
- Well-established processes for members and customers
Urgent.ly
Urgent.ly connects service providers with customers via mobile apps and emphasizes flexible scheduling and modern tools.
- Platform-based model that supports independent contractors
- Flexible scheduling and app-driven dispatch
- Performance-based incentives and scalable opportunities
- Rapidly growing technology and service model
- Good fit for technicians who prefer independent work
Local Towing Companies
Independent towing and roadside assistance businesses are a common entry point and can offer fast learning and strong team bonds.
- Hands-on training and mentorship from experienced technicians
- Close-knit teams and direct exposure to business operations
- Varied daily work and faster responsibility growth
- Potential for ownership or small-fleet opportunities over time
- Strong local customer relationships and community presence
Career Progression Paths in Roadside Assistance
Roadside assistance offers multiple advancement routes depending on your interests—technical mastery, people leadership, or running your own business. At STUCK we hire for entry-level roles and support clear development pathways so team members can grow into higher-paying careers and leadership positions.
Technical Specialist Path
For technicians who love hands-on challenges and advanced recovery work:
- Entry-Level Technician
- Certified Roadside Specialist
- Advanced Recovery Technician
- Technical Trainer
- Technical Operations Manager
This path emphasizes certifications, specialized equipment skills, and mentoring others. STUCK offers mentorship and sponsored training to help technicians advance.
Management Path
For those focused on leading teams and running operations:
- Roadside Technician
- Shift Supervisor
- Operations Manager
- Regional Manager
- Director of Operations
Transition from field work to people and process management by developing scheduling, performance, and hiring skills—STUCK provides leadership workshops and internal promotion tracks.
Entrepreneurial Path
For team members interested in ownership and running a business:
- Roadside Technician
- Independent Contractor
- Small Fleet Owner
- Towing/Service Company Owner
- Multi-Location Business Owner
Gain field experience, learn business ops on the job, and use industry contacts to scale. STUCK alumni have moved into contractor and ownership roles—ask recruiting about transition resources.
Skills Development Timeline
Typical progression timelines help you plan certifications and milestones. STUCK’s development resources align with these stages.
Years 1-2
- Master core roadside procedures and safety
- Obtain initial certifications (first aid, basic ASE modules)
- Develop customer service and communication skills
- Complete STUCK onboarding and field shadowing
Years 3-5
- Acquire advanced technical certifications (WreckMaster, advanced ASE)
- Specialize in recovery, EV service, or diagnostics
- Begin mentoring newer team members and leading small teams
- Take on higher-complexity service calls
Years 5-10
- Move into supervisory or trainer roles
- Develop business and operational management skills
- Expand professional network across the industry
- Contribute to company training and recruitment events
10+ Years
- Advance to senior management or specialized operations roles
- Consider entrepreneurial opportunities or fleet ownership
- Lead talent development and industry partnerships
- Mentor the next generation of roadside professionals
Plan Your Roadside Assistance Career Path
Download STUCK’s career checklist for progression maps, recommended certifications, and the development steps we support for team members.
Job Application Tips for Roadside Assistance Positions
Standing out in roadside assistance job applications means showcasing the right mix of technical ability and customer service. Use these practical, industry-specific tips to improve your chances of landing interviews and starting a career with STUCK.
Resume Essentials
- Lead with relevant certifications (ASE, WreckMaster, CDL) and list renewal dates where applicable
- Specify vehicle types and equipment you’ve worked on (light-duty, medium-duty, EV knowledge)
- Quantify achievements where possible (example: average response time, customer satisfaction score) — use conservative, verifiable numbers
- List technical proficiencies: towing rigs, battery testers, OBD-II scanners, and mobile dispatch apps
- Include safety training, clean driving record, and any drug-screen or background-check clearances
- Mention experience with dispatch systems or routing software to show operational readiness
Interview Preparation
- Research STUCK’s service area and typical vehicle mix so your answers match real needs
- Prepare 2–3 concise stories of challenging roadside situations you handled, focusing on actions and outcomes
- Practice explaining technical fixes in simple terms — interviewers look for both skill and customer-facing clarity
- Demonstrate familiarity with safety protocols and company SOPs
- Ask about training, schedule expectations, and team structure to show interest in career growth
- Bring copies of certifications, licenses, and driving records to speed up hiring checks
Sample Resume Sections
Skills Section Example
Technical Skills:
- Vehicle recovery and towing (winch, wheel-lift, flatbed)
- Jump starts, battery testing, and replacement
- Tire changes and temporary repairs
- Non-damaging vehicle lockout services
- Basic mechanical diagnostics and OBD-II troubleshooting
- GPS navigation and mobile dispatch applications
Certifications:
- ASE Certified Technician (specify areas)
- WreckMaster Level 2 (or relevant level)
- Class B Commercial Driver’s License (list endorsements)
- First Aid & CPR
Experience Section Example
Roadside Technician | ABC Towing | 2019–Present
- Responded to daily service calls with consistent, measured on-scene times (example metrics may be used)
- Maintained high customer satisfaction through clear communication and timely service
- Performed recoveries, battery services, and tire changes while following safety SOPs
- Coordinated with dispatch to optimize routes and reduce response windows
- Mentored new technicians on company procedures and safe work practices
Cover Letter Excerpt Example
“I bring hands-on roadside experience, strong customer service, and a commitment to safety. With ASE training and WreckMaster coursework, I efficiently diagnose and resolve common roadside issues while keeping customers informed and calm. I’m excited to bring my skills to STUCK and grow within your team.”
How to Apply at STUCK
Ready to apply? Prepare your resume, licenses, and certifications. Visit STUCK’s careers page for current openings, required documents, and details on background checks and onboarding timelines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Roadside Assistance Jobs
Do I need special training to start a roadside assistance job?
Many entry-level positions provide paid on-the-job training, so you can start without all certifications. A clean driving record is typically required, and basic automotive knowledge helps. Certifications like ASE, WreckMaster, or a CDL increase hiring potential and may speed advancement. STUCK offers structured training and resources to help new team members earn certifications — check our careers page for details.
What are the physical requirements for roadside assistance jobs?
Roadside roles are moderately to heavily physical: expect lifting, bending, kneeling, and working outdoors in varied weather. Typical safe-lift guidelines depend on employer policies and local regulations; many technicians handle loads and equipment in the 50–100 lb range with proper technique and PPE. STUCK provides safety training, PPE, and guidance on safe lifting and ergonomics.
How much can I earn as a roadside assistance technician?
Earnings vary by role, experience, certifications, and location. Industry ranges often start around ,000–,000 for entry-level technicians and rise with experience and credentials; experienced technicians and managers can earn substantially more. Shift premiums, commissions, and benefits also affect total compensation. For STUCK’s current pay ranges and benefits, view our job listings or contact recruiting for the latest information.
Is roadside assistance a good long-term career?
Yes — roadside assistance is an essential service with steady demand, offering clear career ladders into technical specialization, management, or entrepreneurship. As vehicles evolve (including EVs and advanced driver systems), technicians with up-to-date skills remain in demand. STUCK supports career development through training, mentorship, and internal mobility programs.
What’s the work schedule like in roadside assistance?
Roadside assistance operates 24/7, so schedules can include standard 8–12 hour shifts, rotating shifts, on-call periods, nights, weekends, and holidays. Many employers pay shift differentials or standby compensation. STUCK posts schedule expectations in each job description and offers resources to help team members balance shift work with life commitments.
What hiring checks and resources should I expect?
Employers commonly require background checks, driving-record reviews, and drug screens before hiring. You may need to provide copies of certifications and licenses. Many companies — including STUCK — offer onboarding resources, training materials, and links to external certification programs. See our resources section or careers page for application document checklists and upcoming hiring events.
Start Your Roadside Assistance Career Journey Today
A career in roadside assistance combines technical work, customer service, and the satisfaction of helping people in urgent situations. With clear entry points, defined advancement paths, and steady demand across the industry, it’s a strong option for anyone seeking a stable, hands-on career.
Whether you’re interested in vehicle recovery, field technical work, or moving into management, roadside assistance jobs offer meaningful opportunities to build skills, earn competitive benefits, and join a supportive team.
Ready to Launch Your Roadside Assistance Career?
Apply to join STUCK — we’re hiring drivers and support staff now. Download our career checklist for step-by-step guidance, certification info, and application templates, or visit STUCK’s careers page to see current openings and benefits.