Based in Seattle, WA
About Laurel
Laurel is an AI-powered race technology platform built to help endurance events grow smarter, scale faster, and create deeper connections with their athletes. By combining industry-leading timing, live tracking, and real-time engagement with modern data, content, and insights, Laurel equips race directors to deliver safer, more dynamic, and more memorable race experiences – while unlocking new revenue streams and long-term participant value.
Driven by a mission to elevate every aspect of endurance events, Laurel seamlessly integrates fan engagement, event operations, safety, and runner experience into a single platform. Its patented AI-powered timing solution replaces traditional RFID mats with hundreds of micro-checkpoints, capturing precise, real-time performance data down to the tenth of a mile.
Trusted by more than 400+ premier races — including Bay to Breakers, Surf City, San Antonio Marathon, Ragnar Relay, Every Woman’s Marathon, and the Seattle Marathon — Laurel delivers a new standard of accuracy, scalability, and engagement that excites athletes, spectators, and partners alike.
Role Overview
The Head Timer owns the planning, setup, and execution of race timing operations at assigned events. This role is responsible for ensuring timing systems are deployed correctly, race data is captured accurately, and race-day timing operations run smoothly from start to finish.
Head Timers serve as the on-site technical lead for timing systems and work closely with race directors, Laurel operations, and event staff to ensure timing infrastructure integrates seamlessly with overall race execution.
This role is ideal for someone who thrives in high-pressure live-event environments, demonstrates strong technical proficiency, and can lead teams while maintaining precise operational execution.
Key Responsibilities
Race Timing Operations
- Forecast labor needs per race, including volume, roles, and required skill levels
- Own the setup, monitoring, and execution of timing systems during assigned events
- Ensure accurate athlete tracking and results capture across all timing points
- Monitor race data inputs and outputs, identifying and resolving discrepancies in real time
- Troubleshoot timing equipment and technical issues quickly to maintain operational accuracy
- Event Preparation & Equipment Management
- Prepare timing plans and equipment requirements for assigned races
- Coordinate equipment deployment including antennas, timing mats, networking hardware, and supporting systems
- Ensure all timing infrastructure is configured, tested, and operational prior to race start
- Oversee equipment breakdown, transport, and return to warehouse following events
On-Site Team Leadership
- Lead assistant timers and timing staff during race setup and execution
- Provide clear direction and training on race-day procedures
- Maintain professional communication with race directors, volunteers, and Laurel leadership
- Ensure timing teams execute roles effectively and maintain operational standards
Cross-Functional Coordination
- Work closely with Laurel operations, project managers, and race staff to align timing operations with overall race logistics
- Communicate timing needs, risks, and operational updates prior to and during race events
- Support post-race data review and ensure results are delivered accurately and efficiently
Qualifications & Skills
- Strong technical aptitude and comfort working with timing systems and hardware
- Excellent problem-solving ability and decision-making under pressure
- Ability to lead teams and provide clear direction during live event operations
- Professional communication and strong interpersonal skills when working with race directors and event staff
- Ability to remain organized and detail-oriented in fast-paced environments
- Experience with race timing systems or live event technical operations preferred
Success Looks Like
- Timing systems are deployed correctly and operational prior to race start
- Race data is captured accurately with minimal discrepancies
- Timing teams execute efficiently and confidently under clear leadership
- Technical issues are resolved quickly without disrupting race operations
- Race directors and Laurel leadership have confidence in the reliability of timing operations
Flexibility & Additional Duties
This job description is intended to describe the primary responsibilities and expectations for this role. Given the dynamic nature of a startup environment and live-event operations, the Head Timer may be asked to take on additional duties or projects as needed.
Such assignments will align with the individual’s skills and experience and do not change the fundamental ownership boundaries defined herein.
To apply for this job email your details to phil@laurelT.com