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Mls Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Red Bull

2026 Internship, Fall - Event Operations

Harrison, NJ · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

... referees, league officials, vendors, partners, etc.) to ensure all needs are met. * Other designated assigned duties. The New York Red Bulls are one of 30 Major League Soccer (MLS) teams. RBNY, one ...

Red Bull

2026 Internship, Fall - Event Operations

Harrison, NJ · On-site

$16 - $21/hr

... referees, league officials, vendors, partners, etc.) to ensure all needs are met. * Other designated assigned duties. The New York Red Bulls are one of 30 Major League Soccer (MLS) teams. RBNY, one ...

Sporting Kansas City

... as per MLS rules. * Represent Sporting Kansas City Academy in a professional manner. * Always display respectful behavior toward the game, players, staff, referees, opponents and facilities.

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Mls Referee information

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$6

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$58

How much do mls referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for mls referee in the United States is $20.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are MLS referees?

MLS referees are trained and certified officials responsible for enforcing the rules of soccer matches in Major League Soccer, the top professional soccer league in the United States and Canada. They oversee games, make calls on fouls and infractions, and ensure fair play on the field. MLS referees are selected based on experience, fitness, and knowledge of the game, often progressing through lower leagues before officiating at the MLS level.

How do refs get hired?

MLS referees are typically hired through a certification process that includes completing training courses, passing written and practical exams, and gaining experience in lower-level leagues. They must also demonstrate good fitness, knowledge of the rules, and often undergo background checks before being appointed to professional matches.

How much do MLS refs get paid?

MLS referees typically earn between $30,000 and $50,000 per year, depending on experience and the level of matches officiated. They also receive per-game stipends and may work part-time or on a contract basis, often requiring certification from officiating organizations.

What are some common challenges MLS referees face during matches, and how can they effectively manage high-pressure situations?

MLS referees often encounter challenges such as managing on-field conflicts, making split-second decisions, and maintaining authority while under intense scrutiny from players, coaches, and fans. Effective communication, staying physically fit, and thorough knowledge of the latest rules are essential for handling these pressures. Referees are encouraged to participate in regular training, review match footage, and seek feedback from mentors to continuously improve their decision-making and composure during high-stakes moments.

How much does MLS next pay referees?

MLS Next referees typically earn between $50 and $150 per game, depending on experience and certification level. Payments are often supplemented by additional fees for travel and match responsibilities, and referees may also need to complete ongoing training and certification requirements.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an MLS Referee, and why are they important?

To thrive as an MLS Referee, you need comprehensive knowledge of the Laws of the Game, strong physical fitness, and formal certification from recognized soccer officiating bodies such as USSF. Experience with referee management systems, video assistant referee (VAR) technology, and fitness tracking tools is typically required. Excellent communication, decision-making under pressure, and conflict resolution skills set top referees apart. These abilities are vital to ensure fair play, maintain control of the match, and uphold the integrity of professional soccer.

How do I become an MLS referee?

To become an MLS referee, candidates typically need to complete certification through the Professional Referee Organization (PRO), which involves passing written and field tests, gaining experience as a referee at lower levels, and demonstrating knowledge of the rules of soccer. Maintaining fitness and staying current with rule changes are also essential for advancement to the professional level.

What is the difference between Mls Referee vs Soccer Referee?

AspectMls Referee
Required Certifications
Work Environment
Employer & Industry Usage
Comparison Summary

The main difference between an Mls Referee and a Soccer Referee is that Mls Referees are specifically certified and officiate Major League Soccer matches, often requiring advanced certifications and experience. Soccer Referees can officiate at various levels, including amateur and youth leagues, with different certification levels. Both roles involve officiating soccer matches, but Mls Referees operate at the professional, top-tier level within the industry, often with more rigorous training and higher standards.

What cities are hiring for Mls Referee jobs? Cities with the most Mls Referee job openings:
What states have the most Mls Referee jobs? States with the most job openings for Mls Referee jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Mls Referee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mls Referee jobs are:
Mls Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mls Referee job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,539 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

2026 Internship, Fall - Event Operations

Red Bull

Harrison, NJ • On-site

$16 - $21/hr

Internship

Posted 12 days ago

Red Bull rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 30 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

15th of 50 rated marketing agency

Job description

Red Bull New York ("RBNY") are one of 30 teams in Major League Soccer (MLS) and one of the league's ten original charter clubs. Founded in 1996, RBNY has competed in MLS since its inception. RBNY's First Team plays its home matches at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey and its Second Team plays its home matches at Montclair State University. RBNY are owned by the Austrian beverage company Red Bull GmbH, after which the team is named.
RBNY's First Team is a three-time MLS Supporters' Shield winner and a two-time Conference Champion, while the Second Team is the 2025 MLS NEXT Pro Champion. RBNY also operates one of the nation's premier youth soccer development programs, spanning local partnerships across New York and New Jersey. RBNY's Academy is ranked among the top development organizations in the country.
Purpose of this Internship
Red Bull New York are looking for a motivated and organized college student to join the Operations department. This 12-week program is an opportunity to join the club and gain comprehensive understanding of operations at RBNY and Sports Illustrated Stadium (SIS). The internship is a great opportunity for those interested in pursuing a career in sports. Experience will include working match days and non-match days at SIS, as well as Montclair State University. In addition to soccer events (MLS, MLSNP, NWSL), chosen applicants will likely be exposed to dark day assignments, special events, stadium projects, and potential requested support at the First team training ground.
This is an unpaid, for credit internship only (proof that you will receive credit is required).
RESPONSIBILITIES
Areas that play to your strengths
All the responsibilities we'll trust you with:
  • Red Bull New York (MLS) Matches @ SIS, NJ/NY Gotham FC (NWSL) Matches @ SIS, RBNY II (MLSNP) Matches @ Montclair State University.
  • Support in daily operation of SIS, as well as stadium setup, breakdown, staging and conversion for matches.
  • Coordinate with other Red Bull New York departments to ensure successful event planning and execution.
  • Liaise with outside parties (visiting teams, referees, league officials, vendors, partners, etc.) to ensure all needs are met.
  • Other designated assigned duties.

The New York Red Bulls are one of 30 Major League Soccer (MLS) teams. RBNY, one of the ten charter clubs of MLS, has competed in the league since its founding in 1996. The Red Bulls play home matches at Red Bull Arena (RBA) in Harrison, New Jersey. The three-time MLS Supporters' Shield Winners are owned by the Austrian beverage company Red Bull, for which the team is named. The New York Red Bulls offer one of the nation's premier youth soccer development programs, from local soccer partnerships across New York and New Jersey to Regional Development Schools and the Red Bulls Academy teams.
EXPERIENCE
Your areas of knowledge and expertise
that matter most for this role:
  • Student pursuing career in Sports Management and/or Event Operations, with 1-2 years of related experience.
  • An individual with the ability to lift 50+ pounds and perform moderate labor over the course of a full event (8-12 hrs). Must be able to work outdoors in varying weather conditions (heat, cold, rain, etc.).
  • Experience showing professionalism around pro athletes/teams, while maintaining composure and effectiveness under pressure and changing conditions in a team environment.
  • Ability to meet deadlines; accomplish work in order of priority; effectively multitask and deliver consistently at a high level.
  • Temporary

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