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Car Restoration Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Vintage Car Technician

Fitchburg, WI · On-site

$36 - $40/hr

As a Vintage Car Technician, you will play a crucial role in preserving and restoring classic automobiles to their original condition, ensuring both aesthetic and mechanical authenticity. Your ...

Hot Rod Builder/Mechanic

Littleton, NC · On-site

$60K - $125K/yr

Master Automotive Restoration & Classic Car Technician. (MUST HAVE 10+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE TO APPLY). Buddy Isles Tire and Automotive/Collision is searching for a highly skilled, detail-oriented, and ...

Hot Rod Builder/Mechanic

Littleton, NC · On-site

$50K - $125K/yr

Master Automotive Restoration & Classic Car Technician. (MUST HAVE 10+ YEARS OF EXPERIENCE TO APPLY) Buddy Isles Tire and Automotive/Collision is searching for a highly skilled, detail-oriented, and ...

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Car Restoration information

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$11

$18

$24

How much do car restoration jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for car 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 car restoration?

Car restoration is the process of repairing and refurbishing an automobile to return it to its original condition or better. This typically involves disassembling the car, fixing or replacing worn parts, addressing rust and body damage, repainting, and restoring the interior. Restoration can be done for both classic and vintage cars, with the goal of preserving historical value, improving functionality, or enhancing appearance. The process can be time-consuming and requires specialized skills and knowledge of automotive systems.

What are some common challenges faced when working on classic car restoration projects?

One of the main challenges in classic car restoration is sourcing original or compatible replacement parts, as many components are no longer in production. Restorers must also address unexpected issues such as hidden rust, outdated wiring, or previous substandard repairs, which can extend project timelines. Collaboration with specialists like upholsterers, painters, and mechanics is often essential to achieve high-quality results. Being detail-oriented and patient helps ensure that finished restorations meet both safety standards and the owner’s vision.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a car restoration specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Car Restoration Specialist, you need strong mechanical aptitude, knowledge of automotive repair techniques, and experience with bodywork, often gained through vocational training or an apprenticeship. Familiarity with diagnostic tools, welding equipment, paint systems, and sometimes ASE certification is typically required. Attention to detail, patience, problem-solving, and effective communication with clients are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities ensure the ability to restore vehicles accurately, maintain safety standards, and deliver high-quality results that meet client expectations.

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

AspectCar RestorationAuto Body Technician
Required CredentialsSpecialized restoration training, certifications in classic car repairHigh school diploma, certifications in collision repair
Work EnvironmentRestoration shops, vintage car garagesCollision repair shops, auto body shops
Employer & IndustryClassic car collectors, restoration shopsInsurance companies, auto repair centers
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Car restoration focuses on restoring vintage and classic cars to their original condition, often involving extensive repairs and custom work. Auto body technicians primarily repair and refinish vehicle exteriors after accidents. While both roles involve vehicle repair, car restoration emphasizes preservation and originality, whereas auto body technicians focus on collision repair and cosmetic fixes.

How do you become a car restoration specialist?

To become a car restoration specialist, gaining hands-on experience through apprenticeships or working in auto body shops is essential. Developing skills in mechanical repair, bodywork, and painting, often supported by technical training or certifications, helps build expertise in restoring vehicles to their original condition.

How much does a car restoration specialist make?

A car restoration specialist typically earns between $30,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, skill level, and location. Skilled technicians with certifications and specialized tools can earn higher wages, especially in high-end or custom restoration projects.
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What other helpful pages are available for Car Restoration?

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Infographic showing various Car Restoration job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 36% Full Time, 60% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,090 per year, or $18.3 per hour.

Auto Body Technician/Painter

Alamogordo, NM • On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

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Job description

We are looking for a full-time body shop technician that comes with a solid background in all aspects of an auto body shop including disassembly, finishing and prep, priming, painting, and reassembly. Experience with classic car restoration is a plus! Must have own tools.