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Certified Soccer Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Youth Soccer Referee

Gurnee, IL ยท On-site

$21 - $31/hr

Under the direction and supervision of the Athletics Supervisor, the youth soccer referee will be ... Certifications : A minimum of a Grassroots Referee Certification is preferred, but not required to ...

Youth Soccer Referee

Gurnee, IL ยท On-site

$21 - $31/hr

Under the direction and supervision of the Athletics Supervisor, the youth soccer referee will be ... Certifications : A minimum of a Grassroots Referee Certification is preferred, but not required to ...

Certification as a referee through U.S. Soccer or other governing body preferred. Physical Requirements: * Ability to stand and move around for extended periods of time. * Ability to see and hear ...

Adult Soccer Referee

Peoria, IL ยท On-site

$35/hr

Duties : Under the supervision of the Athletics Coordinator, the Adult Soccer Referee is ... Previous experience and umpire certifications are a plus, but not required. Knowledge and Ability

Adult Soccer Referee

Peoria, IL ยท On-site

$35/hr

Duties : Under the supervision of the Athletics Coordinator, the Adult Soccer Referee is ... Previous experience and umpire certifications are a plus, but not required. Knowledge and Ability

Youth Soccer Referee

Peoria, IL ยท On-site

$25/hr

Duties : Under the supervision of the Athletics Coordinator, the Youth Soccer Referee is ... Previous experience and umpire certifications are a plus, but not required. Knowledge and Ability

Youth Soccer Referee

Peoria, IL ยท On-site

$25/hr

Duties : Under the supervision of the Athletics Coordinator, the Youth Soccer Referee is ... Previous experience and umpire certifications are a plus, but not required. Knowledge and Ability

SOCCER REFEREE

Santa Barbara, CA ยท On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate ... Complete required certifications within 60 days of hire * Complete all required Branch and Position ...

Youth Soccer Officials

Shoreview, MN ยท On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Accreditation from a nationally recognized soccer referee certification organization (e.g. U.S. Soccer Federation) OTHER Hours Fall League (September - October) Saturdays, 8:45am - 12:45pm, 2-4 hours ...

Avery Soccer Referee

Plainfield, IL ยท On-site

$17 - $18/hr

CPR, First Aid, AED certifications, Child Abuse Prevention and Sexual Harassment training prior to first day of hire. * Previous experience with diverse populations preferred. Physical Demands:

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Certified Soccer Referee information

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How much do certified soccer referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for certified soccer referee in the United States is $17.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is becoming a certified soccer referee worth it?

Becoming a certified soccer referee can be worthwhile for those interested in sports officiating, as it provides opportunities to earn income, develop communication and decision-making skills, and stay involved in the game. Certification typically requires training, passing exams, and maintaining good standing, which can lead to officiating at various levels from youth to adult leagues.

What challenges do certified soccer referees face during matches, and how can they manage them?

Certified Soccer Referees often encounter challenges such as managing player emotions, making quick and accurate decisions under pressure, and handling disagreements from coaches or spectators. To effectively manage these situations, referees rely on clear communication, a thorough understanding of the rules, and maintaining composure. Building experience through frequent officiating and participating in referee development programs can also help referees improve their confidence and conflict-resolution skills on the field.

What skills and qualifications are needed to be a certified soccer referee?

To thrive as a Certified Soccer Referee, you need a thorough understanding of the Laws of the Game, strong decision-making abilities, and official certification from a recognized soccer association. Familiarity with referee management systems, match reporting tools, and online training modules is commonly required. Excellent communication, impartiality, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills ensure fair, efficient game management and maintain the integrity and safety of competitive matches.

What is a certified soccer referee?

Certified Soccer Referees are individuals who have completed official training and certification to officiate soccer matches according to the rules of the game. They are responsible for enforcing the laws, ensuring fair play, and making decisions on the field during games at various levels, from youth to professional leagues. Certification typically involves passing courses, exams, and sometimes physical fitness tests. Referees may also be required to attend ongoing training to stay updated with rule changes. Their role is essential for maintaining the integrity and safety of the sport.

How to become a certified soccer referee?

To become a certified soccer referee, you typically need to complete a training course offered by your local or national soccer association, pass a written exam, and demonstrate knowledge of the rules of the game. Some organizations also require a physical fitness test and ongoing education to maintain certification.

What is the difference between Certified Soccer Referee vs Youth Soccer Coach?

AspectCertified Soccer RefereeYouth Soccer Coach
CertificationsReferee certification from local or national soccer associationsCoaching licenses or certifications, often from youth sports organizations
Work EnvironmentOn-field officiating during matchesTraining sessions, team practices, and game management
Employer & IndustryLeagues, tournaments, and sports organizationsSchools, clubs, community programs

While both roles involve soccer and require certifications, Certified Soccer Referees focus on officiating matches, ensuring rules are followed, whereas Youth Soccer Coaches develop players and manage team activities. Both are essential in youth soccer but serve different functions on the field.

More about Certified Soccer Referee jobs

What cities are hiring for Certified Soccer Referee jobs?

Cities with the most Certified Soccer Referee job openings:

What states have the most Certified Soccer Referee jobs?

States with the most job openings for Certified Soccer Referee jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Certified Soccer Referee jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Certified Soccer Referee jobs are:

Infographic showing various Certified Soccer Referee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $36,728 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Youth Soccer Referee

Gurnee Park District

Gurnee, IL โ€ข On-site

$21 - $31/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Under the direction and supervision of the Athletics Supervisor, the youth soccer referee will be responsible for following and enforcing league rules as they pertain to the different grade levels of soccer. They will also be responsible for maintaining the flow of the games and ensuring the safety of all participants.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Referee must attend a mandatory referee meeting/training prior to the start of a season
  2. Arrive at your scheduled game 15 minutes early to meet the teams and also perform a visual inspection of the field noting any deficiencies to the supervisor
  3. Check all teams for any jewelry prior to the start of a game
  4. Control the flow of the soccer game for the level on which they are assigned
  5. Ensure the safety of all players during a given game
  6. Be able to explain the rules to the players when making calls
  7. Communicate and interact effectively with a large, diverse group of players, parents and coaches
  8. Resolve any on-field issues between players, coaches or parents that are within your capability or comfort level when they happen; Any issues that cannot be resolved by the referee will be immediately communicated to the Site Supervisor and/or Athletic Supervisor
  9. Report/recap any incidents or problems with players, coaches or parents that happened during assigned games to the Site Supervisor and/or the Athletic Supervisor
  10. Hand out any materials to coaches as communicated by the Athletics Supervisor
  11. Report any red or yellow cards given during a game to the Site Supervisor or the Athletic Supervisor
  12. At the end of the day the referee will pick up all of the corner flags and bring them to the designated storage area after the last game

ADDITIONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

This position could require you to work some weeknight evenings for re-scheduled games due to cancellations for inclement weather. Referees must supply their own whistle, stopwatch and referee shirt in a color that is not blue or yellow.

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Experience: Must have a working knowledge of the rules of the game from either previous refereeing or playing experience
  • Skills: Ability to communicate effectively via e-mail, phone and in person with direct supervisor; They must also be able to communicate with a large diverse group of people participating in the soccer leagues with various ages
  • Certifications: A minimum of a Grassroots Referee Certification is preferred, but not required to start
  • Competencies: This position must possess a good knowledge of the game and be able to enforce and explain the rules

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

This position will require an employee to be on their feet for a majority of their shift in different types of weather. During the time on their feet the employee will experience different levels of exertion depending on the grade level they are officiating. At certain points in a season a referee might have to lift a box up to 25 lbs to hand out different items to teams or coaches, mainly coaches plaques.

We believe in taking care of our team and supporting our members both professionally and personally. As a valued addition to our team, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package dependent on your role. Check out our offeringshere.