Every hockey fan knows the players, the goals, and the excitement of the NHL. But have you ever wondered about the people who keep the game fair and flowing—like the linesmen?
TLDR: NHL linesmen earn a solid paycheck, though not as much as the players. Entry-level linesmen make around $200,000 per season. Veterans can earn up to $360,000. It’s a demanding job with lots of travel, stress, and sharp eyes required.
Who Are NHL Linesmen, Anyway?
Linesmen are part of the officiating team in an NHL game. They work alongside the referees to make sure rules are followed and the game runs smoothly. While referees call penalties, linesmen handle offside, icing, and face-offs, and they break up fights too.
Each NHL game uses two referees and two linesmen. The zebras you see skating around? Yep, those ones.
So, How Much Do They Make?
The NHL doesn’t post salaries for officials, but thanks to collective bargaining agreements and inside info, we have a pretty good idea.
- Entry-Level Linesmen: $200,000 to $250,000 per season
- Veteran Linesmen: Up to $360,000 per season
Not bad, right? It’s not player money, but it’s still a nice income for a career in sports.
What Affects Their Pay?
Like any job, several factors determine how much an NHL linesman makes.
- Experience: More years on the ice usually means more dollars in your pocket.
- Performance: Top linesmen get chosen for the Stanley Cup Playoffs. That means extra pay!
- Seniority: Senior staff usually lock in higher salaries and better game assignments.
The longer and better you perform, the more you can earn. It’s just like getting an upgrade within your job—skates included!
What About Working Conditions?
Now before you dream of quitting your job to become a linesman, let’s talk about the job itself.
Linesmen are on the go almost constantly. The NHL regular season has 82 games—per team! That’s a long schedule, plus preseason and possibly playoffs.
And forget home-cooked meals. These officials travel almost nonstop. It’s a grind.
Here are just a few job realities:
- Work 70-80 games per season
- Travel across North America regularly
- Deal with fast-paced action and high-pressure decisions
- Risk of injury from pucks, players, and tempers
It’s not all hockey glam—these folks put in real hustle.
Do They Get Benefits?
You bet! NHL officials are unionized and have solid benefits.
- Health insurance
- Retirement plans
- Per diem for travel
- Performance bonuses, especially during playoffs
The National Hockey League Officials Association (NHLOA) helps linesmen and referees negotiate salaries, maintain work conditions, and earn retirement benefits.
How Do You Become an NHL Linesman?
Sure, the money is good—but it ain’t easy to get this gig.
Most NHL linesmen started as players at younger levels. When not making it to the pros, many turn their passion into officiating. Through local leagues, junior games, and top minor leagues like the AHL, they climb the ladder.
The pathway looks something like this:
- Start officiating youth or amateur hockey
- Join officiating programs and camps
- Move on to junior leagues (CHL, USHL, etc.)
- Get scouted for minor professional leagues like the AHL
- Make the jump to the NHL
It’s not an overnight journey—it often takes years.
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Playoff Pay: The Bonus Round
Like the players, linesmen also get a big bonus during playoff time.
Only the best get invited to work during the Stanley Cup Playoffs. It’s considered a huge honor—and it comes with extra pay too!
Exact figures vary, but some playoff officials can earn an additional $25,000 to $30,000 if they make it deep into the postseason.
It’s the NHL’s way of saying: “Nice job out there—here’s some bonus cash.”
What Do Linesmen Say About Their Job?
Most of them truly love what they do. Even with the stress, most officials say they wouldn’t trade their job for anything else.
Here’s why:
- They stay close to the game they love
- They travel to hockey cities across North America
- They work with a tight-knit crew of professionals
And let’s be real—if you’re on the ice during Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final, that’s a memory for life.
Is It Worth It?
If you love hockey, don’t mind travel, and can take the pressure—yes, it’s totally worth it!
The pay is competitive, the job is exciting, and every night is game night. But it’s not all cheers and clean ice. It’s hard work. It demands a sharp eye, fast feet, and a thick skin when fans or coaches get heated.
But for those who make it, being an NHL linesman is more than just a job. It’s a dream on skates.
Final Whistle: Quick Recap
- Entry-level salary: Around $200K
- Top veterans: Up to $360K
- Travel and pressure: High
- Love of the game: Essential
So next time you see that stripes-clad person calling offside, give them a nod. They’ve worked hard to be there and earn every penny keeping the game honest—and exciting!