Classic Car Mechanic / Engineer Required
Independent Classic Car Specialist in Orpington, Kent / South East London
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm (1 hour lunch)
Location: Orpington, Kent / South East London Salary: £32,000 - £40,000 Basic DOEOur client, a well-established independent Classic Car Specialist based in Orpington, is seeking a skilled Classic Car Mechanic / Engineer to join their dedicated team. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced mechanic with a passion for classic vehicles, particularly pre-2000 VWAG (Volkswagen Audi Group) models, including air-cooled and water-cooled systems, to contribute to a niche production line. Our client specialises in classic vehicles from post-war to 1989, with growing expertise in modern van conversions.
We’re reactively looking for the right Classic Car Mechanic to support our senior engine builder, who works three days a week, as part of our succession planning. If you’re a vehicle engineer with skills in engine fitting, building, machining, crankshaft grinding, or line boring, and you’re ready to work hands-on in a dynamic workshop, this Classic Car Mechanic role is for you.
Key Responsibilities of the Classic Car Mechanic / Engineer with our client:
Work in of three specialist automotive engineering departments: engine disassembly and cleaning, engine building, and engine fitting into classic vehicles - let us know what your speciality is on your cover letter!
Strip down, clean, and pallet old, greasy engines, with machining of core components
Build and install reconditioned engines, including long block (head-to-head) and turnkey solutions with accessories like exhausts and distributors
Diagnose and resolve mechanical and ancillary faults
Communicate with customers, providing technical expertise and covering office duties during breaks or absences
Maintain high standards of restoration for classic vehicles, ensuring mechanical integrity
Adapt to evolving needs, including expanding knowledge of modern modelsRequirements of the Classic Car Mechanic:
Proven experience in a mechanical workshop, ideally with classic vehicles, particularly pre-2000 VWAG models
Expertise in engine fitting, building, machining, crankshaft grinding, or line boring
Knowledge of air-cooled and water-cooled systems, with familiarity in long block and turnkey engine services
Ability to communicate confidently with customers and provide technical support
Experience with VW dealer background or T5/T6 models is a plus; willingness to train and learn is highly valued
Full UK Driving Licence
Based in or able to commute to the Orpington area
Comfortable with a structured workday, including set tea breaks and lunch with the teamWhy Apply?
Competitive salary of £32k - £40k DOE
Work in a specialist environment with a strong reputation in the classic car industry
Be part of a small, skilled, and flexible team where your expertise is valued
Enjoy a structured 5-day week (8am-5pm) with a collaborative team flow
Opportunity to grow with a company expanding, with training support availableIf you’re passionate about classic cars, skilled in engine work, and ready to join a team that values craftsmanship and automotive history, don’t miss this chance.
For more information or to apply, please contact Alex Perrin at Perfect Placement. We specialise in placing top talent within the automotive industry across the South East and the entire United Kingdom.
Perfect Placement are specialists in Automotive Recruitment. So if you are looking for a New Job in the Motor Trade, be sure to contact our team today