An Automotive Restoration Technician specializes in preserving, repairing, and rebuilding vintage, classic, and antique vehicles. Unlike general mechanics who replace broken parts on modern cars, restoration technicians combine mechanical expertise with historical research and artistic craftsmanship to return a vehicle to its original factory condition—or modify it into a high-performance custom machine.
Core Responsibilities Full Vehicle Teardown:
Methodically disassembling rare vehicles while documenting, photographing, and cataloging every single nut, bolt, and component.
Metal Fabrication & Bodywork:
Cutting out rusted floor pans or panels and hand-crafting replacement sheet metal using specialized tools like English wheels and shrinker/stretchers.
Mechanical Rebuilding:
Overhauling period-correct engines, manual transmissions, carburetors, and drum brake systems to factory specifications.
Paint & Refinishing:
Stripping bodies to bare metal, applying lead filler, and spraying multi-stage paint finishes to achieve a flawless, mirror-like show finish.
Skills & Qualifications Welding Expertise:
High proficiency in TIG and MIG welding, as well as gas welding for delicate vintage metals.
Patience & Problem Solving:
Modern diagnostic scanners do not work on classic cars; technicians must rely on mechanical intuition, manuals, and troubleshooting skills.
Resourcefulness:
The ability to hunt down rare New Old Stock (NOS) parts or fabricate a part from scratch when it is no longer manufactured. Attention to
Detail:
Precision in panel gap alignment, color-matching, and wiring to meet elite collector standards.
Pay:
$20.00 - $30.00 per hour Expected hours: 40.0 per week
Benefits:
Employee discount Flexible schedule On-the-job training Opportunities for advancement