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Auto Restoration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Benz Auto Body

Auto Body Technician

Redwood City, CA

$25 - $60/hr

Conduct auto restoration projects, ensuring vehicles are restored to their original specifications. * Utilize hand tools and equipment effectively for various repair tasks. * Execute airless paint ...

Benz Auto Body

Auto Body Technician

Redwood City, CA · On-site

$25 - $60/hr

Conduct auto restoration projects, ensuring vehicles are restored to their original specifications. * Utilize hand tools and equipment effectively for various repair tasks. * Execute airless paint ...

Benz Auto Body

Auto Body Technician

Redwood City, CA

$25 - $60/hr

Conduct auto restoration projects, ensuring vehicles are restored to their original specifications. * Utilize hand tools and equipment effectively for various repair tasks. * Execute airless paint ...

LEGENDARY AUTOWORKS

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Experienced Body Shop Technician

Springfield, MO · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

This position offers an exciting opportunity for those passionate about automotive repair, auto restoration, and craftsmanship to showcase their talents in a fast-paced, rewarding environment. Skills

SUNROOFS SPECIALIST INC

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Automotive Interior Upholsterer

Stockton, CA · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Familiarity with auto restoration techniques and the specific requirements of vehicle interiors. * Excellent attention to detail combined with a proactive approach to problem-solving in a fast-paced ...

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Auto Restoration information

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$11

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How much do auto restoration jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto restoration in the United States is $18.31, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $19.95 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the 30-60-90 rule for cars?

The 30-60-90 rule in auto restoration refers to a structured plan for the first three months of a project, with specific goals set at 30, 60, and 90 days to ensure steady progress. Auto restorers often use this timeline to prioritize tasks such as disassembly, bodywork, and finishing, helping manage workflow and deadlines effectively.

What is auto restoration?

Auto restoration is the process of repairing and refurbishing a vehicle, typically a classic or vintage car, to bring it back to its original condition or to improve its performance and appearance. This can involve work on the engine, body, interior, and other components. Restoration projects can range from minor cosmetic fixes to complete frame-off rebuilds. The goal is often to preserve the car's historical value and functionality while maintaining or enhancing its original design.

Can you make a living restoring cars?

Auto restoration can be a viable career, especially for skilled technicians with experience in bodywork, painting, and mechanical repairs. Income varies based on location, reputation, and whether you work independently or for a shop, with some professionals earning a full-time living through restoration projects and related services.

How much money do car restorers make?

Car restorers typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, skill level, and the complexity of projects. Skilled restorers with specialized tools and certifications can earn higher wages, especially when working independently or running their own shops.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals working in auto restoration, and how can they be overcome?

Auto restoration professionals often encounter challenges such as sourcing rare or discontinued parts, dealing with extensive rust or structural damage, and balancing client expectations with budget constraints. Successfully overcoming these challenges requires strong problem-solving skills, a network of reliable suppliers, and a thorough understanding of restoration techniques. Collaboration with experienced team members and clear communication with clients about project timelines and costs are also essential for delivering high-quality results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Auto Restoration Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Auto Restoration Technician, you need expertise in automotive repair, bodywork, painting, and historical vehicle knowledge, often supported by vocational training or certification in auto mechanics. Familiarity with tools such as welding equipment, paint sprayers, diagnostic systems, and restoration-specific software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving, patience, and strong customer communication make someone stand out in this role. These skills ensure the restoration is both technically sound and true to the vehicle's original character, satisfying both safety standards and client expectations.

What is the difference between Auto Restoration vs Auto Body Technician?

AspectAuto RestorationAuto Body Technician
CertificationsSpecialized restoration certifications, collision repair licensesASE certifications, collision repair certifications
Work EnvironmentRestoration shops, custom shops, restoration facilitiesCollision repair shops, auto body shops
Job FocusRestoring vintage, classic, or damaged vehicles to original conditionRepairing and refinishing vehicle exteriors after accidents
Industry UsageUsed in classic car restoration, custom projectsCommon in collision repair and insurance claims

Auto Restoration and Auto Body Technician both work in vehicle repair but differ mainly in scope. Auto Restoration focuses on restoring vintage or custom vehicles to their original condition, often requiring specialized skills and certifications. Auto Body Technicians primarily repair collision damage, focusing on fixing and refinishing vehicle exteriors after accidents. While they share some certifications and work environments, their job goals and industries of focus set them apart.

How do you become a car restorer?

To become a car restorer, you typically need to gain experience through vocational training, apprenticeships, or working in auto body shops, focusing on skills like welding, painting, and mechanical repair. Many restorers also pursue certifications in auto body repair or restoration to improve their job prospects and demonstrate expertise.
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Auto Restoration jobs near you
Infographic showing various Auto Restoration job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,090 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Auto Restoration Shop Manager

Zepeda 805 Impalas

Santa Maria, CA • On-site

$28 - $40/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

Job description

AUTO RESTORATION SHOP MANAGER


Location: Santa Maria, CA
Employment Type: Full-Time
Compensation: Salary DOE (Depending on Experience)


Join One of the Nation's Premier Classic Chevrolet Restoration Shops


MJ Classics LLC dba Zepeda 805 Impalas is seeking an experienced Auto Restoration Shop Manager to lead our growing restoration team in Santa Maria, California.


We specialize in the restoration and sale of iconic Chevrolet classics, with a focus on 1958-1967 Impalas and 1954-1957 Bel Airs. Our vehicles are sold nationwide and showcased to tens of thousands of enthusiasts through our highly engaged social media presence. We don't just repair cars—we bring automotive history back to life.


If you're passionate about classic vehicles, thrive in a leadership role, and take pride in producing show-quality work, this is an opportunity to be part of something special.


What You'll Do


• Lead and manage the day-to-day operations of our restoration and auto body shop
• Supervise, mentor, and motivate technicians, mechanics, and auto body specialists
• Assign and oversee restoration projects from start to finish
• Diagnose and troubleshoot complex issues on classic vehicles
• Ensure projects remain on schedule, within budget, and meet our quality standards
• Coordinate vehicle transport, deliveries, and pickups
• Maintain a safe, organized, and productive shop environment
• Perform final quality-control inspections before vehicles are presented to customers
• Collaborate closely with ownership to help grow and improve shop operations


What We're Looking For:


• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred
• Previous experience managing an automotive restoration, collision, or mechanical shop
• Extensive hands-on experience with classic vehicles, especially Chevrolet models
• Strong knowledge of automotive technology, mechanics, fabrication, and restoration
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills
• Ability to hold team members accountable while maintaining a positive culture
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to exceptional craftsmanship
• Reliable, self-motivated, and solution-oriented


Bonus Qualifications


• Experience with frame-off restorations
• Experience with custom fabrication and metal work
• Passion for classic Chevy culture and restoration
• Familiarity with social media content and vehicle presentation


Why Join Zepeda 805 Impalas?


• Work on rare and high-value classic Chevrolets
• Lead a talented team of restoration professionals
• Opportunity for career growth as our business continues to expand
• Your work will be showcased to enthusiasts and collectors nationwide
• Be part of preserving American automotive history
• Family-oriented company culture with passionate ownership and a strong reputation in the classic car industry


This is more than a management position—it's an opportunity to help build some of the finest classic cars in the country.


If you're ready to lead a team, take ownership of projects, and play a key role in restoring iconic American classics, we'd love to hear from you.

Company Description

Join One of the Nation's Premier Classic Chevrolet Restoration Shops
MJ Classics LLC dba Zepeda 805 Impalas is seeking an experienced Auto Restoration Shop Manager to lead our growing restoration team in Santa Maria, California.
We specialize in the restoration and sale of iconic Chevrolet classics, with a focus on 1958-1967 Impalas and 1954-1957 Bel Airs. Our vehicles are sold nationwide and showcased to tens of thousands of enthusiasts through our highly engaged social media presence. We don't just repair cars—we bring automotive history back to life.