Also called: Chain Gang, Down Marker Operator
Holds the chains and down markers on the sideline during football games.
Crew members move the 10-yard chains and down box after every play, running with the action. When there's a close measurement, they bring the chains onto the field. Most are part-time volunteers or paid per game.
Estimate; NFL chain crews earn a few hundred dollars per game; it's a side gig.
Approximate: anchored on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for a broader job group.
No formal education, about 0 years after high school. No education required; selected by teams and officials.
Ways in: On-the-job training. Training cost: Under $15k.
Growing slowly. Tiny niche.
Low risk in 5 years, medium in 10. Electronic and optical first-down measurement is being tested; crews remain for now in this part-time role.
Age 16+. One way to start: Ask your high school athletic director or local officials association about working the chains
Classes: Physical education, Math, Speech.
Official data: O*NET occupation 27-2023.
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