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Auto Restoration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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Body Shop Technician

Langhorne, PA · On-site

$20 - $40/hr

Perform auto glass replacement and auto restoration tasks with precision and care * Conduct vehicle maintenance checks, including mechanical inspections and minor repairs to ensure optimal ...

Wondries Toyota

Automotive Technician

Alhambra, CA · On-site

$33 - $42/hr

Hands-on experience with auto body repair, auto restoration, and general automotive service. * Proficiency in using hand tools, power tools, and diagnostic equipment. * Ability to perform heavy ...

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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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What cities are hiring for Auto Restoration jobs? Cities with the most Auto Restoration job openings:
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:
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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.
Automotive Body Shop Appraiser

Automotive Body Shop Appraiser

Executive Honda - Wallingford

Middletown, CT • On-site

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Automotive Body Shop Appraiser

Executive Honda Collision Center

Executive Auto Group has proudly served our community for over 50 years and offers long-term career stability. Many of our managers and team members have been with the company for more than 20 years. We are seeking an experienced Auto-body Shop Appraiser to grow our Collision Center.

What We Offer:

  • Paid Holidays & PTO
  • Air-conditioned Shop
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid Life Insurance
  • 401K with company match
  • Employee discounts
  • Ongoing training
  • Competitive pay

What You’ll Do:

  • Conduct thorough inspections of damaged vehicles to assess auto body and mechanical repairs needed.
  • Prepare auto estimating reports using industry tools and software.
  • Collaborate with insurance adjusters, service writers, and repair technicians to understand repair scopes and costs effectively.
  • Utilize mechanical knowledge to identify underlying issues that may impact vehicle safety or performance during the appraisal process.
  • Provide clear recommendations for auto body repair.
  • Maintain comprehensive documentation of all assessments, estimates, and negotiations for transparency and record-keeping purposes.
  • Support auto service management by ensuring appraisal processes align with company standards, policies, and industry best practices.

  

Keys to Success:

 

  • Experience in auto estimating, auto body repair, or automotive repair roles with a strong understanding of vehicle structures and systems.
  • Ability to manage customer expectations and insurance claims processes.
  • Mechanical knowledge combined with analysis skills to accurately evaluate complex vehicle damage.
  • Familiarity with underwriting principles related to insurance claims is a plus.
  • Hands-on experience with auto restoration projects or extensive knowledge of auto service management is desirable.
  • Excellent communication skills for service writing and collaborating with team members across departments.
  • Ability to interpret technical manuals, repair procedures, and industry standards related to auto estimating and repairs.

Executive Auto Group is an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit discrimination or harassment based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

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