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What does a Towing Operator do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A towing operator works with assisting vehicles that have broken down or been involved in accidents, mostly on roads but also in urban environments. Tasks include towing cars, trucks, or other vehicles to workshops or safe locations, as well as providing basic technical assistance on-site, such as changing tires or jump-starting vehicles. The job often involves shift work, as the need for towing can arise at any time of day or night, including weekends. The work environment is varied and can sometimes be risky, especially when working on busy roads or in difficult weather conditions. Customer contact is central to the role, requiring a professional and service-oriented approach even under pressure.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for towing operators has shown stable and positive growth. In 2022, the average salary was 31,200 SEK, rising to 32 500 SEK in 2023 and further to 33 600 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 7.7% over the period. The salary increase has been driven by continued demand for towing services and a certain shortage of experienced drivers, which has pushed up salary levels. The market has also been influenced by increased demands for flexibility and availability, rewarded with higher wages and allowances for inconvenient working hours. Differences in education and experience can also affect salary development within the profession.

Towing Operator salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 33 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 28,900 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 35,500 SEK/month (male, post-secondary education <3 years)
• Hourly wage: 202 SEK/hour (calculated on 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Men earn 33 700 SEK, women 32 900 SEK (women earn 98% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data on regional differences is unavailable for the current period

Education and qualifications

To work as a towing operator, a valid heavy vehicle driving license (C-license) is usually required, and many employers prefer candidates with vocational training in transport or vehicle technology. Practical experience in the vehicle industry or other transportation activities is advantageous, and some employers require ADR certification for transporting hazardous goods. In addition to formal requirements, the ability to handle stressful situations and good customer service skills are important qualifications.

• Formal education: Vocational driving training with C-license (about 1 year)
• Certifications: ADR certificate for hazardous goods, YKB (Professional competence certificate)
• Internship: Commonly included in training programs
• Prerequisites: B-license and basic vehicle knowledge
• Tips: Choose training with practical components and mentorship opportunities

Common benefits and compensations

Towing operators are often offered night shift allowances for evening, night, and weekend work, as well as overtime pay for long shifts. Other common benefits include wellness contributions, occupational pension, and sometimes work clothing and tools. Some employers also provide training opportunities and further education within the company.

Competition and challenges

The profession of towing operator is characterized by a relatively high demand for labor, especially for those with the right education and experience. At the same time, competition for the most attractive positions is higher in larger cities, while smaller towns may have fewer jobs but also fewer applicants. Challenges include working under pressure and sometimes dangerous situations, managing varying working hours, and quickly adapting to new technical requirements and vehicle types. The recruitment situation nationwide is marked by both significant recruitment difficulties and some unemployment within the profession, creating a paradox where there is a shortage of the right skills despite an available pool of unemployed individuals.

Tips for those aspiring to become a Towing Operator

To succeed as a towing operator, it’s beneficial to combine technical knowledge with the ability to handle people in stressful situations. Patience is vital when unexpected challenges arise, and good stress resistance is crucial for making quick and correct decisions at accident scenes. Service orientation is central, as the work often involves helping people in vulnerable situations. Flexibility and the ability to work irregular hours are advantages, as well as staying updated on new technologies and legal requirements. Precision and safety awareness are key qualities for performing the work safely, and effective collaboration with colleagues and customers greatly facilitates everyday work.

Key facts about Towing Operators

• Education level: Vocational training with C-license
• Work environment: Outdoors on roads, shift work around the clock
• Typical employment: Employed, sometimes hourly
• Demand: Large opportunities for employment nationwide
• Special skills: ADR certification and YKB often required

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a towing operator can often advance to supervisory roles, such as team leader or operations manager at a towing station. Some choose to further their education in transport management or start their own business in towing and roadside assistance. The Swedish Employment Agency's forecasts indicate that job opportunities remain strong, with demand expected to stay stable over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by a paradox of both difficulties in hiring and some unemployment within the group, emphasizing the importance of the right skills for success in the labor market. A total of 412 job openings were recorded recently, indicating a stable and high-demand job market for towing operators.

Frequently asked questions about Towing Operators

• What does a Towing Operator earn?
  - The average salary is 33 600 SEK/month, but it varies based on experience, education, and employer.
• What education is required to become a Towing Operator?
  - Usually, vocational driving training with a C-license and YKB, and sometimes ADR certification, are needed.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 33 700 SEK and women 32 900 SEK, meaning women earn approximately 98% of men's salaries.
• What is the work environment like for a Towing Operator?
  - The work environment is varied and can involve working on roads around the clock, sometimes under stressful or risky conditions.
• What are the future prospects in this profession?
  - Demand for towing operators is high, and the job market is considered stable over the next five years according to the Swedish Employment Agency.
• What benefits are common in this profession?
  - Common benefits include night shift allowances, overtime pay, wellness contributions, and occupational pension.