Car salvage

What does a car tow truck driver do? – Tasks and work environment

A car tow truck driver primarily assists vehicles that have broken down, been involved in traffic accidents, or otherwise need to be transported to a workshop or other location. Tasks include driving specialized tow trucks, assessing the situation at the accident site, securing the vehicle, and sometimes assisting drivers and passengers. The work is often outdoors under varying weather conditions and may involve emergency responses during inconvenient hours, including evenings, nights, and weekends. A car tow truck driver needs good physical fitness, technical knowledge, and the ability to handle stressful or dangerous situations safely.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, car tow truck drivers have experienced a stable and positive salary development. In 2022, the average salary was 31,200 SEK, which increased to 32 500 SEK in 2023 and has now risen to 33 600 SEK per month in 2024. This represents an overall increase of approximately 7.7% over the period, with the largest increase noted between 2022 and 2023. The salary trend reflects continued demand for the profession, especially given the high number of available positions and recruitment difficulties within the group. Factors such as increased technical complexity of modern vehicles and the need for quick response to traffic accidents have also contributed to salary increases in line with the responsibilities.

Car tow truck driver 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, various sectors, post-secondary education less than 3 years)
• Hourly wage (average): 202 SEK
• Women earn: 32 900 SEK/month (98% of men's salary)
• Men earn: 33 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data on regional salary differences are limited, but variations may occur depending on demand and labor market conditions.

Education and qualifications

The path to becoming a car tow truck driver typically involves vocational training in transportation or vehicle technology, combined with practical experience. A C-driver's license is usually required, and many employers prefer candidates who have completed specific courses in towing and accident site management. Internships and on-the-job introductions are common. Technical interest, good physical condition, and stress resilience are important qualities for success in the role.

• Vocational training: Vehicle or transportation programs at high school (3 years)
• License requirements: C-driver's license for heavy trucks
• Certifications: Courses in towing technology and safety
• Practical experience: Apprenticeship or on-the-job introduction
• Prerequisites: Technical interest and good physical ability

Common benefits and compensations

Car tow truck drivers are often offered additional pay for inconvenient working hours, overtime, and sometimes on-call allowances. Insurance, wellness contributions, and access to workwear and protective equipment are common benefits. Some employers also offer further training in areas such as safety and vehicle technology.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for car tow truck drivers is characterized by high demand and some competition, especially in larger cities where there are more actors. Recruitment difficulties are reported, even though unemployment within the group is relatively high, creating a paradoxical situation. Technological changes, such as the increase in electric vehicles and digital support systems, set new requirements for skills development. The work environment can be challenging, with work under pressure, sometimes in dangerous traffic situations, and at all hours. The ability to handle stress and make quick decisions is essential for success and job satisfaction.

Tips for those who want to become a car tow truck driver

To succeed as a car tow truck driver, it is good to have a genuine technical interest and a desire to continuously learn about vehicle technology and safety. Long-term perspective and endurance are important qualities, as the work can be physically demanding and involve long shifts during inconvenient hours. Service-mindedness and a calm attitude under stressful circumstances make a big difference, especially when customers are in stressful situations. Flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to unexpected events are strengths, as well as teamwork skills with colleagues and other professionals on site. It is also wise to obtain a C-driver's license early and gain practical experience through internships or summer jobs in the industry. Finally, accuracy and safety awareness are highly valued, since the work often takes place in traffic environments where risks are evident.

Key facts about car tow truck drivers

• Education level: Vocational education with C-driver's license
• Work environment: Field-based, often outdoors and during inconvenient hours
• Work type: Shift work and on-call service are common
• Demand: High, approximately 412 job openings within the profession
• Special skills: Towing techniques and safe handling of modern vehicles

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to advance to supervisory roles, such as team leader or instructor in towing and rescue services. Some choose to specialize in heavy transports or work with advanced technology for electric vehicles. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that the job market for car tow truck drivers and similar roles is expected to remain stable with significant job opportunities over the next five years. At the same time, a paradoxical recruitment situation exists, with both a shortage of experienced tow truck drivers and relatively high unemployment within the group. The profession also includes truck drivers and other transportation roles, broadening career opportunities further.

Frequently asked questions about car tow truck drivers

• What is the average salary of a car tow truck driver?
  - The average salary is 33 600 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a car tow truck driver?
  - Vocational education in vehicles or transportation and a C-driver's license are usually required.
• What is the work environment like for a car tow truck driver?
  - The work is mainly outdoors and can involve emergency responses during evenings, nights, and weekends.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 98% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What are the future prospects for car tow truck drivers?
  - Demand is high, and job opportunities are considered to be plentiful according to the Employment Service.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Stress resilience, technical interest, and the ability to act quickly in pressured situations are central.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a car tow truck driver?
  - The highest salary is 35,500 SEK and the lowest is 28,900 SEK per month.