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Nfl Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

NFL FLAG Referee Locations: Colorado Springs and Castle Rock, Colorado Season: Fall 2026 -- Sundays, mid-September through mid-November Position Type: Seasonal, Part-Time, 1099 Independent Contractor ...

Position Overview NFL FLAG and Girls Play Flag Football are seeking dependable, level-headed, and professional referees to officiate youth flag football games during the Fall 2026 season. Our ...

NFL FLAG Referees play an essential role in creating a safe, fair, competitive, and enjoyable game-day experience for young athletes, volunteer coaches, and families. Referees are responsible for ...

As a Referee you will: * Officiate at sporting events, games, or competitions, to maintain ... Our professional athlete training programs propel elite athletes to new heights in the NFL combine ...

Referee

Plano, TX · On-site

As a Referee you will: * Officiate at sporting events, games, or competitions, to maintain ... Our professional athlete training programs propel elite athletes to new heights in the NFL combine ...

NFL FLAG Official

South Bend, IN · On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

RCX Sports is hiring NFL FLAG Officials (1099 Independent Contractors) to support NFL FLAG leagues ... Knowledgeable of the rules and referee signals. We will help teach the rules and mechanics.

RCX Sports is hiring NFL FLAG Officials (1099 Independent Contractors) to support NFL FLAG leagues ... Knowledgeable of the rules and referee signals. We will help teach the rules and mechanics.

NFL FLAG Official

Grand Rapids, MI · On-site

$12.50 - $15.50/hr

RCX Sports is hiring NFL FLAG Officials (1099 Independent Contractors) to support NFL FLAG leagues ... Knowledgeable of the rules and referee signals. We will help teach the rules and mechanics.

RCX Sports is hiring NFL FLAG Officials (1099 Independent Contractors) to support NFL FLAG leagues ... Knowledgeable of the rules and referee signals. We will help teach the rules and mechanics.

As a Basketball Referee you will: * Officiate at sporting events, games, or competitions, to ... Our professional athlete training programs propel elite athletes to new heights in the NFL combine ...

Basketball Referee

Rochester, NY · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

As a Basketball Referee you will: * Officiate at sporting events, games, or competitions, to ... Our professional athlete training programs propel elite athletes to new heights in the NFL combine ...

Ensure all programming follows NFL Flag Football rulesets and Sofive operational standards. * Communicate professionally with players, parents, coaches, referees, and facility leadership. * Assist ...

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Nfl Referee information

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How much do nfl referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for nfl 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 NFL referees?

NFL referees are officials responsible for enforcing the rules and maintaining order during professional American football games in the National Football League. They lead a crew of other officials, make crucial decisions on the field, and ensure fair play by interpreting and applying the game's rules. NFL referees must have a thorough understanding of the game, excellent judgment, and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure. They often have years of experience officiating at lower levels before reaching the NFL. Their decisions can significantly impact the outcome of a game.

How much do NFL referees pay?

NFL referees typically earn between $205,000 and $205,000 annually, with experienced officials earning higher salaries. They also receive per-game stipends and benefits, and must pass physical and knowledge tests to maintain their certification. Pay can vary based on experience, game assignments, and tenure.

Do NFL referees have day jobs?

NFL referees are typically part-time officials who work other jobs during the NFL season, as refereeing is considered an off-season or supplemental role. Many have careers in fields such as education, law enforcement, or business and undergo extensive training and certification to officiate games. The schedule involves weekly games during the season, but their primary employment is usually outside of officiating.

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

To thrive as an NFL Referee, you need an in-depth understanding of football rules, strong decision-making abilities, and years of officiating experience, typically beginning at lower levels and advancing through rigorous evaluation. Familiarity with instant replay systems, communication headsets, and NFL officiating mechanics is essential. Exceptional communication, confidence under pressure, and teamwork help referees effectively manage games and interact with coaches and players. These skills ensure fair, accurate, and authoritative enforcement of the rules in high-stakes, fast-paced professional football environments.

How hard is it to become an NFL referee?

Becoming an NFL referee requires extensive experience officiating at lower levels, such as college or semi-professional leagues, and passing physical and knowledge tests. Candidates often need years of officiating experience, strong knowledge of football rules, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations. The selection process is highly competitive and involves multiple evaluations and training programs.

What is the difference between Nfl Referee vs Nfl Umpire?

AspectNfl RefereeNfl Umpire
CertificationsOfficial NFL officiating certificationSame as referee, NFL officiating certification
Work EnvironmentOn-field, overseeing game callsOn-field, focusing on line of scrimmage and player safety
Roles & ResponsibilitiesMain game official, making final callsAssists with line of scrimmage calls, player safety

The NFL referee and umpire roles are both essential officiating positions with similar certifications and work environments. The referee typically has a broader role, overseeing the entire game, while the umpire focuses more on line of scrimmage and player safety. Both positions require NFL officiating certification and are vital to maintaining game integrity.

What are some common challenges NFL referees face during games, and how do they manage high-pressure situations?

NFL referees regularly encounter fast-paced and high-pressure situations, especially when making split-second decisions that can impact the outcome of games. One common challenge is maintaining focus and composure amid loud crowds, critical media attention, and real-time game dynamics. Referees rely on thorough rule knowledge, teamwork with other officials, and clear communication to resolve disputes and ensure fair play. Ongoing training, video reviews, and feedback sessions also help them continuously improve their decision-making and handle the intensity of each game.

How do you get a job as an NFL referee?

To become an NFL referee, candidates typically start by gaining experience officiating at lower levels such as college or semi-professional leagues, and must demonstrate strong knowledge of football rules and mechanics. They often attend officiating clinics, pass written and physical tests, and are evaluated on their performance before being considered for NFL assignments, which are awarded through a selection process by the league's officiating department.
More about Nfl Referee jobs
Infographic showing various Nfl Referee job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,539 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

NFL Flag Referee

Colorado NFL FLAG

Colorado Springs, CO

$20 - $35/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Contractor

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

NFL FLAG Referee

Locations: Colorado Springs and Castle Rock, Colorado
Season: Fall 2026 — Sundays, mid-September through mid-November
Position Type: Seasonal, Part-Time, 1099 Independent Contractor

Job Summary

Colorado NFL Flag is seeking dependable, professional, and enthusiastic referees to officiate youth flag football games during our Fall 2026 Sunday season in Colorado Springs and Castle Rock.

As an NFL FLAG Referee, you will play an important role in creating a safe, fair, and enjoyable game-day experience for players, coaches, and families. Referees are responsible for enforcing NFL FLAG rules, promoting sportsmanship, monitoring player safety, managing conduct, and making fair and unbiased decisions throughout each game.

The ideal candidate is level-headed, professional, dependable, and able to remain calm in fast-paced or challenging situations. Referees must communicate confidently, work well with others, and maintain a positive and impartial presence on the field.

This is a seasonal, part-time, 1099 independent contractor position.

Responsibilities

  • Officiate youth flag football games in accordance with NFL FLAG rules and league guidelines.

  • Promote fair play, player safety, and good sportsmanship throughout each game.

  • Monitor game play and penalize rule violations as needed.

  • Make timely, accurate, and impartial decisions regarding penalties, scoring plays, out-of-bounds calls, and other game situations.

  • Manage player and coach conduct in a calm and professional manner.

  • Address unsportsmanlike behavior and on-field disputes appropriately.

  • Communicate clearly and respectfully with players, volunteer coaches, parents, Field Managers, staff, and fellow referees.

  • Accurately record final game scores and report them to the Field Manager.

  • Assist with field and equipment setup and cleanup as needed.

  • Follow all referee uniform requirements, including wearing proper attire and bringing required officiating equipment.

  • Complete and maintain required NFL FLAG certification and league training.

  • Stay current on league rules, procedures, mechanics, and officiating expectations.

  • Attend weekly referee calls or review the recorded call each week during the season.

  • Participate in training and development opportunities throughout the year.

  • Maintain reliable Sunday availability throughout the Fall 2026 season.

  • Be available to officiate divisional tournaments and other scheduled league events.

Required Qualifications

  • Must be at least 17 years of age.

  • Ability to work as a 1099 independent contractor.

  • Level-headed, professional, and dependable.

  • Ability to remain calm and composed during fast-paced or challenging situations.

  • Strong communication, interpersonal, and conflict-resolution skills.

  • Ability to make quick, fair, and confident decisions under pressure.

  • Professional and impartial when working with players, coaches, parents, and staff.

  • Knowledge of football or flag football rules is preferred.

  • Reliable transportation to assigned league locations in Colorado Springs or Castle Rock.

  • Availability to work Sundays from mid-September through mid-November 2026.

  • Willingness to complete required NFL FLAG certification and league training.

  • Ability to attend weekly referee calls or review weekly call recordings.

  • Physically capable of running, jogging, standing, and remaining active throughout multiple games.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous experience officiating football, flag football, or other sports.

  • Current NFL FLAG certification or certification through another officiating program.

  • Experience working with children, families, coaches, or youth sports organizations.

  • CPR and First Aid certification is a plus.

Physical Requirements

Referees must be physically capable of standing, walking, jogging, and running throughout multiple games. This position requires working outdoors in varying Colorado weather conditions.

Compensation and Opportunities

  • Compensation is paid on a 1099 independent contractor basis.

  • Opportunities may be available to officiate additional regular-season games, tournaments, and special events.

  • Low-cost or no-cost training opportunities may be available for qualified candidates.

Join Our Team

If you enjoy football, work well in a fast-paced environment, and want to make a positive impact in youth sports, we encourage you to apply.

Join Colorado NFL Flag and help us provide a safe, fair, and enjoyable Fall 2026 season for players and families in Colorado Springs and Castle Rock.


Employment Type: Temp/Seasonal
Years Experience: 1 - 3 years
Salary: $20 - $35 Hourly
Bonus/Commission: No