Not all of us can play golf for a living, so what’s the next best thing? Here are 10 awesome jobs for people who love the game you probably never thought of.
Crane Guy
We get this list started off with a job that’s not for the those who have a fear of heights. You know those breathtaking views we get to see during the golf tournament from high above the course that provide a different perspective than a standard blimp shot? Well, those are taken from an actual person who’s perched 12 stories on a crane for hours at a time. The brave gentleman who has manned this position for the last 20 years for NBC is John “Bo” Boeddeker. He’s known as the “crane guy” and has even released a book full of photos he’s taken over the years entitled My Office Window.
“You ask me if I sometimes am thankful for the job, and it’s not SOMETIMES, it’s pretty much every single time I go up,” Boeddeker said, according to the San Diego Union Tribune. “And I can’t think of a place better than the Players. You get up there and see the colors, and the people and the movement, and it’s just awesome.
“I’m in my own little world,” he added. “It’s peaceful. And I don’t have anybody asking me where Tiger Woods is.”
Augusta National Champions Locker Room Attendant
While it may not be the most glamorous job out there, the fact is you will have access to golf’s heaven on Earth without ever having to win a green jacket or be invited to be a member. Sure you’ll be cleaning shoes and collecting towels, but trust us, it’ll be worth it.
Head Pro at Pebble Beach Golf Links
PGA teaching pros usually have a pretty decent gig getting paid to play the game they love every day without the pressures of winning on Tour. But if your plan is to become a teacher, you might as well try to take your talents to the Monterey Peninsula. Pebble Beach’s current head pro, Eric Lippert, is obviously doing it right.
Curator at World Golf Hall Of Fame
If you’re a golf nerd, it doesn’t get much better than spending your days surrounded by its history. As it turns out, you don’t need two major wins to apply for the job of curator. Just a burning passion for the game.
Sommelier at Silverado Resort and Spa
via silveradoresort.com
If you’re a wine and golf enthusiast, what better job is there than to hone your pallet in at a luxury golf resort. Silverado Resort and Spa in Napa, California would be a good place to start. Located in the heart of wine country, you’ll have the best of both worlds.
PGA Tour Standard Bearer
You can’t get much closer to the action at a PGA Tour event than being inside the ropes walking with the players. Granted, it’s usually an unpaid, volunteer gig, meaning you may need to get another job Monday to Wednesday to cover the bills. Sometimes the perks outweigh the pay.
Blimp Pilot
Another golf job with a view. Although this one requires a pilot’s license. It’s tough to beat the view of the world’s best courses from 2,000 feet in the air.
Original Golf Manufacturer Sales Rep
If sales and golf are your things, why not try to become an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) sales rep? Conduct your business on or around the course daily and get free clubs. Sounds like a no-brainer. Ideally, you’ll end up with your preferred manufacturer. If not, we’re sure the one you do land with will become your favorite in a hurry.
Bartender at Whisper Rock
via golfdigest.com
Being a bartender is an ideal way to get into some of the most exclusive golf clubs. Chat with the members who likely have done more with their lives than you have after their round and gain from their perspective. Whisper Rock Golf Club is where we suggest starting. The bar is known as “The Hang” and is heavily frequented by Tour pros, including Phil Mickelson. Plus the tips aren’t too shabby.
Caddie at a Hollywood Country Club
Being a caddie has its perks. You’re outside (not in an office), exercising, and making some decent cash. However, where you caddie really defines the experience. If you’re in the L.A. area, we suggest looping at clubs like Bel-Air, Sherwood, or Riviera. Chances are you’ll be caddying for some of Hollywood’s elite. So when your friend or spouse asks how your day was today, you can let them know Will Smith and Larry David say hello.
