Career Resources
Compensation and salary insights for automotive careers.
What do classic, exotic and European car technicians actually get paid? We analyzed 115 real job postings on Classic Car Jobs to break down pay by brand, dealership vs. independent shop, region and role.
Tennessee mechanics average $23.50 to $36.50/hr, with Nashville custom truck builders and restomod fabricators earning $38.00 to $58.00+/hr—boosted by zero state personal income tax.
Georgia mechanics earn an average of $24.50 to $38.00/hr, while film industry picture-car fabricators and master restoration techs in Metro Atlanta command $40.00 to $60.00+/hr.
California mechanics earn $28.50 to $45.00/hr on average, with top restoration mechanics and master fabricators making $48.00 to $75.00+/hr in major metro markets like LA and the Bay Area.
There is no verified universal ranking that makes “exotic car mechanic” or “master technician” the highest-paid role in every market. Pay depends on the employer, location, responsibilities and compensation plan. Compare actual offers and occupational data on the same basis.
Classic Car Careers
Browse jobs at restoration shops, collector car businesses and specialty automotive companies.