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Car Restorer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hot Rod Builder/Mechanic

Littleton, NC ยท 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 ...

Car Wash Attendant

Sacramento, CA

$13.75 - $16.75/hr

A car detailer performs similar responsibilities, though they typically provide more comprehensive or restorative cleaning. For example, they may wax the car or apply paint protection film. Some of ...

Hot Rod Builder/Mechanic

Littleton, NC ยท 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 ...

Car Detailer

Warrington, PA ยท On-site

$14 - $16/hr

Car Detailer | Full-Time The Locals Detailing is hiring a dependable Car Detailer to join our ... Clean and restore heavily used vehicle interiors * Wash, vacuum, wipe down, and protect vehicle ...

Car Detailers

Des Moines, IA

$14.75 - $18/hr

Car Detailing Clean and sanitize vehicle interior. Vacuum and prepare vehicle interior. Wash, clean ... Check fuel level and warning lights: inspect windshield for damage; factory reset/restore vehicle ...

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Classic Car Mechanic

Scottsdale, AZ ยท On-site

$15 - $28/hr

Acclaim Car and Truck Repair, 1745 E Earll Drive, Scottsdale Rd Acclaim Car and Truck Repair, a leading classic repair shop specializing in drivetrain restoration and transmission work for classic ...

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Car Restorer information

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How much do car restorer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for car restorer in the United States is $20.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.66 and $25.00 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Does a Car Restorer Do?

Car restorers repair new or classic vehicles with the goal of returning them to its best possible condition. In this role, you may replace old parts and use specialized tools or techniques to make the car look and function like new. Most car restorers work in one of two categories. The first form, sometimes known as purist restorers, help restore cars to the way manufacturers originally built them. The second form, sometimes known as the innovators, add new technologies and components to create faster, safer versions of old vehicles while maintaining a classic appearance. Fulfilling the responsibilities of a car restorer requires creativity, stamina, and familiarity with a variety of old automotive systems.

What are popular job titles related to Car Restorer jobs? For Car Restorer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Car Restorer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 33% Full Time, 63% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,678 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Auto Detailer / Paint Finishing Technician

Paul's Auto Restorations of NY Inc

Deer Park, NY โ€ข On-site

$25 - $35/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description


We are seeking a highly skilled and meticulous Auto Detailer to join our classic car restoration team. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in high-end automotive detailing, with a specific focus on wet sanding, buffing, and polishing to achieve a flawless finish on vintage and project vehicles. This role is crucial in bringing out the shine and depth of newly painted or aged classic car finishes, requiring an exceptional eye for detail and technical precision.
Key Responsibilities
  • Wet Sanding and Paint Correction: Perform multi-stage wet sanding and polishing to remove imperfections such as orange peel, scratches, and swirl marks, restoring paintwork to a showroom finish.
  • Comprehensive Detailing: Execute meticulous interior and exterior cleaning, including engine bay detailing, undercarriage cleaning, and chrome polishing typical of classic car restoration projects.
  • Surface Protection: Apply high-quality waxes, sealants, and ceramic coatings to protect restored finishes.
  • Inspection and Quality Control: Conduct thorough inspections of vehicles before and after detailing to ensure all work meets our rigorous quality standards.
  • Documentation: Maintain accurate records of work performed, products used, and vehicle condition through reports and photos for project tracking and client communication.
  • Shop Maintenance: Keep a clean, safe, and organized work area and assist in managing inventory of detailing supplies and equipment.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with paint technicians, body shop team members, and project managers to ensure seamless workflow and project completion.
Required Skills & Qualifications
  • Experience: Proven professional experience in auto detailing, specifically within a body shop or restoration environment is essential.
  • Technical Expertise: Demonstrated expertise in machine polishing (rotary and dual-action polishers) and various wet sanding methods and grits.
  • Classic Car Knowledge: Familiarity with a wide variety of vintage vehicle materials and paint systems ( lacquer, enamel, modern clear coats) is a significant advantage.
  • Attention to Detail: A meticulous approach and an exceptional eye for minor imperfections are paramount.
  • Physical Stamina: The ability to perform physical labor, including prolonged periods of standing, kneeling, bending, and lifting equipment.
  • Soft Skills: Strong communication skills, reliability, and a commitment to delivering high-quality, consistent results.
  • Requirements: A valid driver's license and the ability to operate a motor vehicle safely.
Paint Correction / Polishing
  • Compound sanding marks using rotary polisher
  • Follow with multi-stage polishing system
  • Remove swirl marks and holograms
  • Inspect surfaces under proper lighting

  • Maintain show-quality finish standards

Ceramic Coating
  • Surface prep and paint wipe down
  • Apply ceramic coating per manufacturer instructions
  • Level coating and final wipe
  • Verify coating cure conditions
Final Vehicle Detailing
  • Clean interior and exterior surfaces
  • Clean glass and trim
  • Detail engine compartment if required
  • Dress tires and trim
  • Prepare vehicle for:
    • Delivery
    • Showroom
    • Photography
    • Client pickup