Auto Body Technician

Job Description Job Description Company: American Classics Restoration
Location: Shop Location Anderson, IN
Job Type: Full-Time
Environment: Specialized Classic & Vintage Automotive Restoration (Not a flat-rate collision repair or modern dealership environment)
Job Overview
American Classics Restoration is seeking a skilled, passionate, and meticulously detail-oriented Auto Body & Restoration Technician to join our team. We specialize in bringing vintage automobiles, muscle cars, and classic trucks back to their former glory through high-quality custom builds, resto-mods, and frame-off restorations.
Unlike standard collision repair, this role requires a true craftsman who blends mechanical knowledge, advanced metal fabrication, and artistic precision. You will be working on a variety of American classic vehicles primarily ranging from the 1950s through the 1990s, taking them from bare metal to a flawless, show-quality finish.
Key Responsibilities
Disassembly & Organization: Safely disassemble vintage vehicles, carefully documenting, photographing, and labeling all parts, hardware, and trim to ensure accurate reassembly.
Metalwork & Fabrication: Perform heavy metal straightening, rust repair, panel replacement (patch panels, quarter panels, floors), and structural alignment. Execute high-quality MIG welding (TIG welding is a major plus).
Body Work & Panel Realignment: Master block-sanding, body filling, and panel gapping to achieve completely straight body lines and flawless surface preparation before paint.
Custom Modifications & Resto-Mods: Assist with custom fabrication, frame modifications, and the installation of aftermarket performance upgrades (e.g., modern suspension, disc brake conversions, LS swaps, and Procharger systems).
Component Fitting: Dry-fit all exterior trim, bumpers, glass, and custom components prior to final paint to ensure seamless final assembly.
Collaboration & Problem Solving: Work closely with the mechanical, electrical, and paint teams to navigate the unique challenges of classic cars, such as poor previous repairs, rare parts sourcing, or ill-fitting aftermarket panels.
Required Skills & Qualifications
Experience: Minimum of 3–5 years of professional experience in classic car restoration, custom hot rod building, or advanced structural auto body repair. (Collision-only experience is welcome, but a deep understanding of vintage steel and restoration processes is highly preferred).
Welding & Metalworking: Proven proficiency in MIG welding and sheet metal fabrication. Experience shrinking, stretching, and shaping metal is highly desired.
Artistry & Precision: A sharp eye for symmetry, straight body lines, and proper panel gaps.
Mechanical Aptitude: Basic understanding of classic vehicle mechanics, electrical routing, and disassembly of vintage chassis components.
Tools: Must possess a comprehensive set of personal hand tools and body-work tools.
Physical Demands: Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, stand for long periods, and perform physical labor typical of a high-end restoration shop.
Attributes: High self-motivation, patience, a strong work ethic, and a genuine passion for classic American automotive history.
Preferred Qualifications (Bonus Skills)
Experience with custom paint preparation, airbrushing, or high-end show-quality paint finishes.
Familiarity with installing Vintage Air conditioning and heating systems.
Upholstery or interior restoration experience.
ASE or I-CAR certifications in structural repair or refinishing.
What We Offer
Pay Structure: Stable pay environment (not a high-stress, flat-rate collision environment).
Pride in Workmanship: The opportunity to work on unique, long-term, award-winning legacy projects from the ground up.
Team Environment: A collaborative culture working alongside technicians with decades of combined industry experience.
Up-to-date shop equipment and a clean, safe working environment.
Company Description American classics restoration is one of the largest classic cars and trucks restoration company in the central Indiana. Over 22,000 sq. ft. speed shop fully climate controlled with state-of-the-art equipment. Company specializes in introducing modern technology into classic cars and truck, making fun to drive and extremely reliable. Company Description American classics restoration is one of the largest classic cars and trucks restoration company in the central Indiana. Over 22,000 sq. ft. speed shop fully climate controlled with state-of-the-art equipment. Company specializes in introducing modern technology into classic cars and truck, making fun to drive and extremely reliable.