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Auto Restoration Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Lyle's Collision

Be Seen First

Auto Body Technician

Grand Ledge, MI · On-site

$22 - $28/hr

As an Auto Body Technician, you will specialize in repairing and restoring damaged and classic vehicles within a small specialized team. Your expertise will contribute to high-quality panel repairs ...

CollisionRight

Auto Body Technician

Benton Harbor, MI · On-site

Auto Body Technician Join the CollisionRight Team Why CollisionRight When you join CollisionRight ... Restore vehicles to pre-accident condition * Repair, replace, and realign structural components

CollisionRight

Auto Body Technician

Traverse City, MI · On-site

Additionally, the Auto Body Technician will be challenged with restoring bodywork to its original condition. This may include removing damaged parts and installing replacement parts utilizing ...

CollisionRight

Auto Body Technician

Livonia, MI · On-site

Additionally, the Auto Body Technician will be challenged with restoring bodywork to its original condition. This may include removing damaged parts and installing replacement parts utilizing ...

CollisionRight

Auto Body Technician

Grand Blanc, MI · On-site

Additionally, the Auto Body Technician will be challenged with restoring bodywork to its original condition. This may include removing damaged parts and installing replacement parts utilizing ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Traverse City, MI · On-site

$24 - $29/hr

... restore it back to pre-accident condition. The Auto Body Technician thoroughly disassembles, repairs, and reassembles each vehicle while playing a pivotal role to our company's promise of speed ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Lansing, MI

$24 - $29/hr

... restore it back to pre-accident condition. The Auto Body Technician thoroughly disassembles, repairs, and reassembles each vehicle while playing a pivotal role to our company's promise of speed ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Lansing, MI

$24 - $27/hr

... restore it back to pre-accident condition. The Auto Body Technician thoroughly disassembles, repairs, and reassembles each vehicle while playing a pivotal role to our company's promise of speed ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Waterford, MI

$24 - $29/hr

... restore it back to pre-accident condition. The Auto Body Technician thoroughly disassembles, repairs, and reassembles each vehicle while playing a pivotal role to our company's promise of speed ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Flint, MI · On-site

$24 - $27/hr

... restore it back to pre-accident condition. The Auto Body Technician thoroughly disassembles, repairs, and reassembles each vehicle while playing a pivotal role to our company's promise of speed ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Utica, MI

$24 - $28/hr

... restore it back to pre-accident condition. The Auto Body Technician thoroughly disassembles, repairs, and reassembles each vehicle while playing a pivotal role to our company's promise of speed ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Kingsford, MI

$38.46 - $48.08/hr

... restore it back to pre-accident condition. The Auto Body Technician thoroughly disassembles, repairs, and reassembles each vehicle while playing a pivotal role to our company's promise of speed ...

The Boyd Group

Auto Body Technician

Benton Harbor, MI

$25 - $32/hr

... restore it back to pre-accident condition. The Auto Body Technician thoroughly disassembles, repairs, and reassembles each vehicle while playing a pivotal role to our company's promise of speed ...

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All JobsAuto Restoration JobsAuto Restoration Jobs in Michigan

Auto Restoration information

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$10

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$21

How much do auto restoration jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for auto restoration in Michigan is $15.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.04 and $17.40 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.
What are popular job titles related to Auto Restoration jobs in Michigan? For Auto Restoration jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Auto Restoration jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Auto Restoration jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Auto Restoration jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Auto Restoration job openings:
Auto Restoration jobs near you
Infographic showing various Auto Restoration job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,199 per year, or $16 per hour.
Auto Body Technician

Auto Body Technician

Lyle's Collision

Grand Ledge, MI • On-site

$22 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, PTO

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

As an Auto Body Technician, you will specialize in repairing and restoring damaged and classic vehicles within a small specialized team. Your expertise will contribute to high-quality panel repairs, replacements, and frame straightening, supporting the overall restoration and safety of vehicles. You will report directly to the Shop Manager and play a vital role in maintaining craftsmanship and vehicle integrity.

Responsibilities

  • Assess vehicle damage and determine repair requirements
  • Repair damaged panels and replace panels as necessary
  • Perform welding tasks to restore structural integrity
  • Straighten frames to factory specifications
  • Restore classic cars with attention to historical accuracy
  • Collaborate effectively within a small, specialized team

Required Qualifications

  • Technical certification in auto body repair

Preferred Qualifications

  • 2+ years of experience in auto body repair
  • Skilled in panel beating and welding techniques
  • Experience in frame straightening
  • Strong attention to detail and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work well in a team environment
  • Effective time management skills