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The Hot Rod Shop Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Bruce's Rod Shop

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Auto Body and Paint Technician

Spring, TX · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

... ROD SHOP WAS FOUNDED IN 1981 BY BRUCE BURROUGHS. OVER THE YEARS WE HAVE GROWN FROM A 4 CAR GARAGE TO A 25,000 SQ FT FACILITY IN SPRING,TEXAS. OUR PASSION IS TO BUILD THE BEST PERFORMING HOT ROD ...

Muscle Rod Shop Inc

Custom Car Painter

Boerne, TX · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

About Us: Muscle Rod Shop Inc. is a high-end custom automotive shop specializing in classic ... The ideal candidate has experience in automotive painting, a strong eye for detail, and a passion ...

Masis Musclecar Garage Inc

Parts Specialist

Richmond, VA

$17.75 - $24/hr

A fixture in the hot rod world for over 40 years, Masi and his shop, Masi's Musclecar Garage, have taken their hot rod hobby and nurtured it into an efficient and thriving business. Located under the ...

Muscle Rod Shop Inc

Custom Car Painter

Boerne, TX

$20 - $30/hr

About Us: Muscle Rod Shop Inc. is a high-end custom automotive shop specializing in classic ... The ideal candidate has experience in automotive painting, a strong eye for detail, and a passion ...

Masis Musclecar Garage Inc

Parts Specialist

Richmond, VA

$17.75 - $24/hr

A fixture in the hot rod world for over 40 years, Masi and his shop, Masi's Musclecar Garage, have taken their hot rod hobby and nurtured it into an efficient and thriving business. Located under the ...

RHHR ENTERPRISES INC

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Hot Rod Technician

Lake Elsinore, CA · On-site

$52K - $100K/yr

Position Available at Hunt HOT RODS ? HHR You will need to know and understand: Mechanics ... The shop has had cars at SEMA and award winning cars at The Grand National Roadster show . The ...

Muscle Rod Shop Inc

Custom Car Painter

Boerne, TX · On-site

$20 - $30/hr

Muscle Rod Shop Inc. is a high-end custom automotive shop specializing in classic restorations ... The ideal candidate has experience in automotive painting, a strong eye for detail, and a passion ...

Red Barn Roadster Shop

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Hot Rod Mechanic - Custom Car Builder - Auto Technician

Exeter, NH · On-site

$35 - $50/hr

... the core values of Red Barn Roadster Shop. We are seeking a Hot Rod Mechanic - Custom Car Builder ... Auto Technician specializing in the full, long-term restoration of modified classic cars and trucks.

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All JobsThe Hot Rod Shop Jobs

The Hot Rod Shop information

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How much do the hot rod shop jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for the hot rod shop in the United States is $16.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $18.99 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by technicians at a hot rod shop, and how can they be overcome?

Technicians at a hot rod shop frequently encounter unique customization requests, tight deadlines for show or customer deliveries, and the need to source rare or specialty parts. Overcoming these challenges involves strong problem-solving skills, meticulous attention to detail, and proactive communication with suppliers and clients. Collaboration with a skilled team and staying up-to-date with the latest fabrication techniques also help technicians deliver high-quality, custom builds efficiently.

What is a hot rod shop?

A hot rod shop is a specialized automotive workshop that focuses on building, customizing, restoring, and repairing hot rods—classic or vintage cars modified for higher performance and unique style. These shops offer services such as engine upgrades, custom bodywork, paint jobs, and chassis modifications. Hot rod shops cater to car enthusiasts looking to enhance the appearance or performance of their vehicles, often working on classic American cars from the 1920s through the 1970s.

What is the difference between The Hot Rod Shop vs Custom Car Builder?

AspectThe Hot Rod ShopCustom Car Builder
CertificationsAuto body and mechanical certifications, specialty in hot rodsVaries; often includes custom fabrication and design certifications
Work EnvironmentAuto repair shops, restoration garages, custom shopsDesign studios, fabrication shops, custom garages
Industry UsagePrimarily in automotive restoration and hot rod customizationBroader custom vehicle projects, including hot rods and other custom cars

The Hot Rod Shop specializes in restoring and customizing hot rods with a focus on traditional techniques and restoration. Custom Car Builders have a broader scope, working on various custom vehicles, including hot rods, muscle cars, and other unique projects. While both roles require similar certifications and work environments, The Hot Rod Shop is more focused on classic hot rod restoration, whereas Custom Car Builders often handle a wider range of custom vehicle projects.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Hot Rod Shop Technician, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hot Rod Shop Technician, you need strong mechanical skills, fabrication abilities, and a background in automotive technology or a related certification. Familiarity with welding tools, diagnostic equipment, and custom car-building software is typically required. Attention to detail, creativity, and effective problem-solving are essential soft skills for excelling in custom automotive work. These skills ensure high-quality craftsmanship, safety, and customer satisfaction in a specialized and competitive industry.
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What cities are hiring for The Hot Rod Shop jobs? Cities with the most The Hot Rod Shop job openings:
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The Hot Rod Shop jobs near you
Infographic showing various The Hot Rod Shop job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $34,588 per year, or $16.6 per hour.

Metal Fabricator - Classic Car - Hot Rod - Performance

BMI Inc.

Littleton, NC • On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

High-Performance Fabricator & Classic Car / Hot Rod Technician.
Buddy’s Speed World – Littleton / Lake Gaston Area, North Carolina.

About Buddy’s Speed World:
Buddy’s Speed World is the high-performance division of BMI Inc. We specialize in building serious classic cars, hot rods, show cars, and high-performance daily drivers. From ground-up custom builds and precision fabrication to performance upgrades and full restorations, we deliver uncompromising quality, integrity, and results that turn heads.
Located in the beautiful Lake Gaston area of North Carolina, we offer more than just a job — we offer a lifestyle surrounded by water, freedom, and a tight-knit community of car enthusiasts who live and breathe classic cars and hot rods.
Our Core Values:
  • Integrity First – Do the right thing.
  • Own It – Take responsibility.
  • Exceed Expectations – Go the extra mile.
  • Team Over Ego – Check the ego at the door.
  • Relentless Improvement – Continuously improve everything you do.

Position Overview:
We are seeking an experienced High-Performance Fabricator and Technician who is passionate about building, modifying, and perfecting classic cars, hot rods, and performance vehicles. This is hands-on, custom work — not routine maintenance or oil changes. You’ll be involved in real fabrication, precision builds, and turning customer visions into high-performing reality.
What You’ll Be Doing:
  • Perform custom fabrication and modifications (exhaust systems, intercooler piping, brackets, mounts, roll cages, etc.)
  • Build and install high-performance systems including superchargers, turbo setups, fuel systems, cooling upgrades, and exhaust.
  • Work on classic cars, hot rods, late-model GM LS/LT, Ford Coyote/Modular platforms, and other performance vehicles.
  • Diagnose and resolve complex drivability, performance, and mechanical issues using strong engine theory.
  • Handle performance suspension, steering, brake, and drivetrain upgrades with proper alignment and integration.
  • Execute clean, professional wiring and aftermarket electronics integration.
  • Test, tune, and validate builds on the road and dyno.
  • Document work thoroughly for team and customer communication.
  • Maintain an exceptionally clean, safe, and organized workspace.
  • Mentor junior team members as the shop continues to grow.

What We’re Looking For:
  • Strong hands-on experience in performance fabrication and custom hot rod / classic car work.
  • Excellent fabrication skills (welding, tube bending, sheet metal, etc.)
  • Solid diagnostic and problem-solving abilities with deep understanding of forced induction, engine performance, and vehicle dynamics.
  • Pride in craftsmanship — obsession with fit, finish, and attention to detail.
  • True team player who is humble, accountable, and ego-free.
  • Ability to work independently while consistently delivering high-quality results.
  • Strong communication skills and professional attitude.

Experience Requirements:
  • 3+ years in a performance shop, hot rod shop, or high-level custom automotive environment.
  • Trade school or equivalent hands-on experience.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Extensive fabrication experience (exhaust, intake, brackets, custom panels).
  • Forced induction expertise (superchargers and turbos).
  • Tuning knowledge (HP Tuners, Holley, etc.)
  • Strong electrical diagnostics and wiring skills.
  • Dyno operation or data analysis experience.

Compensation & Growth:
  • Highly competitive pay based on experience, fabrication skills, and proven ability ($55,000 – $95,000+ annually depending on expertise).
  • Performance incentives and bonuses tied directly to build quality, productivity, and customer satisfaction.
  • Clear path for advancement and leadership as our performance and custom build division expands.
  • Opportunity to work on exciting, high-profile classic car and hot rod builds in a growing shop.

Why Join Buddy’s Speed World?
If you live for building vehicles that not only look incredible but actually perform, take immense pride in your craftsmanship, and want to be part of a values-driven team in a lakeside community, this is your opportunity. Enjoy meaningful work surrounded by classic cars, hot rods, and fellow enthusiasts with room to grow both professionally and personally.
How to Apply:
Send your resume along with:
  • A short note about your relevant experience with hot rods, classic cars, or performance fabrication.
  • Photos (or links to photos) of your past builds and projects — this is strongly encouraged and will be a big part of our decision.

Questions? Feel free to reach out — we’d love to hear from passionate builders like you.