Metal Fabricator - Classic Car - Hot Rod - Performance

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.

Automotive Excellence Since 1973!Family-Oriented—State-of-the-Art FacilitySince 1973, "Buddy Isles" has been a trusted name in the Littleton community. What began as a one-bay shop founded by Buddy Isles Sr. has grown into a 55,000 sq. ft., state-of-the-art facility—now proudly led by Buddy Isles Jr. and his wife, Morgan. Built on passion, family values, and quality craftsmanship, our shop offers full-service automotive repair, restoration, body work, towing, tires, and custom builds—all under one roof.We’re more than just a place to work; we’re a family-oriented business that believes in taking care of our team. Our facility is clean, organized, and climate-controlled for year-round comfort. We offer competitive pay with bonus opportunities, paid training, health insurance, vacation, and major holidays off. Most importantly, we respect your time—no Saturdays required, so you can enjoy a true work-life balance. With a 4.7-star rating on Google and a supportive team culture, Buddy Isles Tire & Automotive is a place where you can grow your career and be proud of the work you do.If you’re passionate about the automotive industry and want to be part of something meaningful, we’d love to hear from you.