NJ Civil Service Navigator

TOW TRUCK OPERATOR

Code: 04456 Local Non-Competitive

Because Tow Truck Operator is non-competitive, hiring leans on your background rather than a test score: meet the requirements and apply to the agency directly.

The requirements come down to 0.5 years of relevant experience and a professional license.

How to apply

  • No exam
    This title is not filled by examination

    Non-competitive, unclassified, and Senior Executive Service titles are appointed directly by the hiring agency rather than through a civil service exam. Apply directly to the agency below.

Official job specification

The text below is the official specification published by the New Jersey Civil Service Commission. The plain-language summary and analysis above are derived from it by NJ Civil Service Navigator.

Definition

Under the direction of a local government agency, safely and efficiently tows motor vehicles damaged by accident, stalled, or ticketed by police for traffic violations; does other related duties as required.

Examples of work

Operates a tow truck to transport motor vehicles that have been damaged by accident, stalled, or ticketed by law enforcement for traffic violations and ensures the safety and security of the vehicles during transit. Receives calls or dispatch instructions via radio or telephone from repair garages, automobile associations, or police departments to proceed to specified locations. Assesses and documents the condition of vehicles before and after towing. Attaches antisway bar to vehicle by means of cable, chains, or other grappling devices and hoists one end of vehicle using hand or powered winch to tow vehicle to the repair garage or the police department's impounding area. May remove, bend, or cut parts of damaged vehicles prior to towing. When authorized, may issue summonses to vehicles parked illegally during designated hours, as indicated by posted signage prohibiting parking. Adheres to all traffic laws, regulations, and policies while operating a tow truck. May be responsible for the maintenance of essential records and files. Will be required to learn how to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units.

Experience

Six (6) months of experience operating a truck with a clutch-driven, manually shifted transmission.

License

Appointee must possess a driver's license valid in New Jersey.

Knowledge, skills and abilities

Knowledge in the techniques and procedures of towing a motor vehicle. Knowledge of the proper towing methods for various vehicle types, including cars, motorcycles, and light trucks. Knowledge in the operation of different types of tow trucks and related equipment, such as winches and hoists. Knowledge of the safety regulations and protocols to ensure compliance with local and state requirements. Ability to work independently and handle stressful situations calmly and effectively. Ability to drive a tow truck in a skilled and safe manner. Ability to tow motor vehicles without damaging either the body or the transmission. Ability to comprehend and apply state and local traffic laws pertaining to towing. Ability to maintain essential records and files. Ability to learn how to utilize various types of electronic and/or manual recording and information systems used by the agency, office, or related units. Ability to read, write, speak, understand, and communicate in English sufficiently to perform the duties of this position. American Sign Language or Braille may also be considered as acceptable forms of communication. Persons with mental or physical disabilities are eligible if they can perform the essential functions of the job with or without reasonable accommodation. If the accommodation cannot be made because it would cause the employer undue hardship, such persons may not be eligible.

Note

The examples of work for this title are for illustrative purposes only. A position using this title may not perform all duties listed in this job specification. Conversely, all duties performed on the job may not be listed. Appointees may be required to possess a valid Commercial Driver's License (CDL) and applicable endorsements for the class, weight and type of vehicle being operated. The responsibility for ensuring that employees possess the required motor vehicle license, commensurate with the class and type of vehicles they operate, rests with the Appointing Authority.