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Auto Restoration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Zepeda 805 Impalas

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Auto Restoration Shop Manager

Santa Maria, CA · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

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 ...

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

$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 ...

Harris County Body Shop

Auto Body Tech

Houston, TX · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for repairing and restoring vehicles to their original ... Perform comprehensive auto body repairs including dent removal, panel replacement, and collision ...

Russell Auto Restorations

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Restoration automotive technician

West Palm Beach, FL · On-site

$15 - $30/hr

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Restoration Auto Body Technician to join our dynamic team. This is not a typical body shop or collision repair center, you will have the opportunity to ...

Harris County Body Shop

Auto Body Tech

Houston, TX · On-site

$18 - $25/hr

In this role, you will be responsible for repairing and restoring vehicles to their original ... Perform comprehensive auto body repairs including dent removal, panel replacement, and collision ...

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Auto Restoration information

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$11

$18

$24

How much do auto restoration jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 12, 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. It helps technicians prioritize tasks such as disassembly, repairs, and finishing, and is often used to manage workflow and set expectations during restoration projects.

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 many professionals earning a sustainable income through a combination of labor charges and parts sales.

How much does car restoration make?

Auto restoration technicians typically earn between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, skill level, and location. Skilled restorers with certifications and specialized tools can earn higher wages, especially in high-end or custom restoration 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 hands-on experience through apprenticeships or technical training in auto body repair, painting, and mechanical work. Many restorers learn skills through vocational schools, community colleges, or on-the-job training, and developing a strong understanding of vehicle systems and craftsmanship is essential.
More about Auto Restoration jobs
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What are the most commonly searched types of Auto Restoration jobs? The most popular types of Auto Restoration jobs are:
What states have the most Auto Restoration jobs? States with the most job openings for Auto Restoration jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Auto Restoration jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Auto Restoration jobs are:
Auto Restoration jobs near you
Infographic showing various Auto Restoration job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 92% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 5% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,090 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Experienced Auto Restoration Tech

Jim's Automotive & Classic Cars

Lafayette, NJ • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

PTO

Posted 10 days ago

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Job description

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Restoration Specialist to join our team to help keep the classics alive! The ideal candidate will possess a strong background in automotive restoration, and work efficiently as a new addition to our team.

Responsibilities.

  • Utilize restoration techniques as needed for repairs and modifications.
  • Collaborate with team members to ensure timely completion of repair tasks.
  • Maintain a clean and organized work environment, adhering to safety protocols.

Experience

  • Proven experience in automotive restoration is required.
  • Strong understanding of automotive diagnostics and troubleshooting methods.
  • Proficiency in welding techniques is a plus.
  • A valid driver's license is required; additional certifications in automotive repair are a plus.

Join our team as a Restoration Specialist and contribute to delivering exceptional service and restoring classic vehicles.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Experience:

  • Automotive repair: 2 years (Required)

Ability to Commute:

  • Lafayette, NJ 07848 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Company Description

Auto Restoration Specialists