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Classic Car Custom Paint Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Carr's Corvettes & Customs

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Body Shop Technician/ Painter/ Combo Person

Plano, TX · On-site

$1.2K - $2.5K/wk

... model, classic, muscle car and Corvette repair and restoration shop alongside some of the best ... If you have big dreams in the custom paint & bodywork industry, this job is for you! Email your ...

PRECISION MOTIVE, INC.

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Automotive Specialist - Classic & Modern American Muscle

Hayward, CA · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

We are a family-owned, legacy hot rod and muscle car shop built on integrity and high-quality ... Operating out of our brand-new, expanded facility in Hayward, CA, we focus exclusively on custom ...

Training provided

PRECISION MOTIVE, INC.

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Automotive Specialist - Classic & Modern American Muscle

Reno, NV · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

We are a family-owned, legacy hot rod and muscle car shop built on integrity and high-quality ... Operating out of our brand-new, expanded facility in Hayward, CA, we focus exclusively on custom ...

Training provided

PRECISION MOTIVE, INC.

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Automotive Specialist - Classic & Modern American Muscle

Fresno, CA · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

We are a family-owned, legacy hot rod and muscle car shop built on integrity and high-quality ... Operating out of our brand-new, expanded facility in Hayward, CA, we focus exclusively on custom ...

Training provided

BMI Inc.

Hot Rod Builder/Mechanic

Littleton, NC · On-site

$50K - $125K/yr

Now Hiring: Master Automotive Restoration & Classic Car Technician. (MUST HAVE 10+ YEARS OF ... custom builds. Live & Work in a Great Location! Located in Littleton/Lake Gaston, NC, we offer:

PRECISION MOTIVE, INC.

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Automotive Specialist - Classic & Modern American Muscle

Fresno, CA · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

We are a family-owned, legacy hot rod and muscle car shop built on integrity and high-quality ... Operating out of our brand-new, expanded facility in Hayward, CA, we focus exclusively on custom ...

Training provided

PRECISION MOTIVE, INC.

Be Seen First

Automotive Specialist - Classic & Modern American Muscle

Hayward, CA · On-site

$28 - $40/hr

We are a family-owned, legacy hot rod and muscle car shop built on integrity and high-quality ... Operating out of our brand-new, expanded facility in Hayward, CA, we focus exclusively on custom ...

Training provided

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All JobsClassic Car Custom Paint Jobs

Classic Car Custom Paint information

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$12

$21

$32

How much do classic car custom paint jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for classic car custom paint in the United States is $21.18, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.08 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is a paint job worth it on an old car?

A classic car custom paint job can significantly improve the vehicle's appearance and value, making it worthwhile for enthusiasts and collectors. Skilled painters use specialized tools and techniques to restore or enhance the car's finish, which can also protect the body from rust and corrosion over time.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in classic car custom paint roles, and how can they be managed?

Classic car custom paint professionals often encounter challenges such as matching original paint colors, dealing with aged or delicate surfaces, and working with unique body shapes. Successfully managing these challenges requires a combination of technical expertise, patience, and meticulous attention to detail. Collaborating closely with restoration teams, maintaining up-to-date knowledge of paint products, and investing in quality tools can help ensure the best results while preserving the authenticity of classic vehicles.

What is the difference between Classic Car Custom Paint vs Auto Body Painter?

AspectClassic Car Custom PaintAuto Body Painter
CredentialsTypically requires specialized training in custom paint techniques, certifications varyRequires high school diploma, vocational training, and certifications in auto body repair
Work EnvironmentCustom shops, restoration garages, private studiosAuto repair shops, collision centers, dealerships
Industry UsageUsed in classic car restoration, custom projects, specialty vehiclesUsed in collision repair, general auto painting, accident damage restoration

Classic Car Custom Paint focuses on creating unique, high-quality finishes for vintage and custom vehicles, often involving intricate designs and specialty techniques. Auto Body Painter primarily handles repainting and finishing work related to vehicle repairs after accidents or damage. While both roles involve painting, Classic Car Custom Paint emphasizes artistry and customization, whereas Auto Body Painter concentrates on repair and standard refinishing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Classic Car Custom Paint specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Classic Car Custom Paint specialist, you need expertise in automotive painting techniques, surface preparation, color matching, and a solid understanding of classic car restoration, usually supported by vocational training or apprenticeships. Familiarity with tools like spray guns, sanders, paint booths, and industry-standard coatings is essential, and certifications in automotive refinishing can be advantageous. Attention to detail, creativity, patience, and strong communication skills help deliver high-quality custom finishes and satisfy client expectations. These skills are crucial for achieving flawless results, preserving vehicle value, and ensuring customer satisfaction in a competitive market.

Why are Maaco paint jobs so cheap?

Maaco paint jobs are often cheaper because they use basic materials, offer limited customization, and focus on quick turnaround times. The shop typically provides entry-level services with less extensive prep work and fewer premium options, which helps keep costs low for customers.

What is classic car custom paint?

Classic car custom paint refers to the specialized process of repainting or refinishing vintage or antique vehicles with unique colors, designs, and finishes. This work goes beyond standard paint jobs by incorporating techniques such as pinstriping, airbrushing, and metallic or pearl finishes to restore or enhance the car's appearance. Custom painters often work closely with owners to achieve a specific look that reflects the car's era or the owner's personal taste. The process requires expertise in both classic car restoration and advanced painting methods to ensure authenticity and high-quality results.

How much is a paint job for a classic car?

A classic car custom paint job typically costs between $2,500 and $10,000, depending on the vehicle's size, paint quality, and complexity of the design. Professional auto body shops with experienced painters and proper equipment usually provide detailed estimates based on the project's scope.

What is the hardest color to paint a car?

In classic car custom paint, the hardest colors to apply are often metallic or pearl finishes due to their complex layering and need for precise application. These colors require advanced skills, proper equipment, and careful handling to achieve a smooth, even appearance without defects. Darker shades like black can also be challenging because they show imperfections more readily.
More about Classic Car Custom Paint jobs
What states have the most Classic Car Custom Paint jobs? States with the most job openings for Classic Car Custom Paint jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Classic Car Custom Paint jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Classic Car Custom Paint jobs are:
Classic Car Custom Paint jobs near you
Infographic showing various Classic Car Custom Paint job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 7% Full Time, and 93% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,060 per year, or $21.2 per hour.

SR. AUTOMOTIVE PAINTER

Paul's Auto Restorations of NY Inc

Deer Park, NY • On-site

$30 - $45/hr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

Benefits:
  • 401(k)
  • 401(k) matching
  • Bonus based on performance
  • Company parties
  • Competitive salary
  • Employee discounts
  • Free uniforms
  • Paid time off

Paul's Rods & Rests is an industry-leading, award-winning classic car restoration shop dedicated to preserving automotive history and delivering show-quality custom builds and authentic, ground-up restorations. We take pride in our meticulous attention to detail and our passion for bringing vintage vehicles back to their former glory. We are seeking a highly skilled and passionate Auto Painter to join our talented team of specialists.
Position Summary
We are looking for an experienced Auto Painter with a deep understanding of classic and vintage vehicles. This role goes beyond standard collision repair; it requires an eye for authenticity, exceptional attention to detail, and expertise in high-quality, durable finishes. The ideal candidate will be a team player with a strong work ethic who takes immense pride in their craftsmanship.
Key Responsibilities
  • Surface Preparation: Meticulously prepare vehicle surfaces, including stripping old finishes, cleaning, sanding, and masking to ensure optimal paint adhesion and a flawless result.
  • Color Matching & Mixing: Accurately mix and match paint colors to achieve factory specifications or custom finishes, utilizing both traditional techniques and modern computer-aided systems where appropriate.
  • Paint Application: Apply primers, base coats, and clear coats using various techniques and equipment (spray guns, etc.) to ensure even coverage and a high-quality finish.
  • Finishing: Perform color sanding, wet sanding, and polishing to achieve show-quality results and correct any imperfections.
  • Quality Control: Conduct thorough inspections of all work to ensure adherence to our high quality standards and client specifications.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with the body repair, fabrication, and mechanical teams to ensure a seamless restoration process.
  • Documentation & Safety: Maintain detailed records of materials and time spent per project and strictly adhere to all safety and environmental regulations.
Qualifications & Skills
  • Experience: Minimum of 5 years of proven experience as an automotive painter, with extensive experience in classic car restoration highly preferred.
  • Technical Knowledge: Deep knowledge of automotive paints, primers, finishes, and modern application techniques (e.g., waterborne paints).
  • Tools: Proficiency in using all relevant tools and equipment, including spray guns, sanders, paint booths, and mixing systems. Ownership of personal tools is a plus.
  • Attention to Detail: An exceptional eye for detail and a commitment to producing top-quality, historically accurate work is essential.
  • Soft Skills: Strong problem-solving abilities, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
  • Physical Demands: Ability to perform physical work, including standing for long periods, bending, crouching, and lifting heavy objects as needed.