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Nfl Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$22 - $25/hr

Key Responsibilities: Oversee operations for assigned NFL FLAG league locations Serve as the ... with referees to ensure readiness and alignment Assist in hiring staff and confirm weekly ...

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... referee games, prepare and maintain fields. * Expand and offer more leagues. * Supervise and ... Our professional athlete training programs propel elite athletes to new heights in the NFL combine ...

... referee games, prepare and maintain fields. * Expand and offer more leagues. * Supervise and ... Our professional athlete training programs propel elite athletes to new heights in the NFL combine ...

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Nfl Referee information

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How much do nfl referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 8, 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 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% 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.

Part - Time NFL Flag League Success Manager (Hybrid)

Colorado NFL FLAG

Denver, CO

$25 - $27/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Job description

Just Compete Sports is looking for a dependable, organized, kid-friendly, and customer-focused part-time League Success Manager to oversee 1-3 NFL FLAG league locations. This role is essential in delivering a high-quality experience for athletes, families, patrons, and staff while ensuring smooth and efficient league operations. The ideal candidate is tech-savvy, adaptable, level-headed, and able to balance strong customer service with consistent policy enforcement.

We are looking for someone who communicates with proper etiquette, takes ownership, asks questions when needed, and helps create a positive, welcoming environment for kids. If you have a passion for sports management, excellent communication skills, and a dedication to upholding the integrity of league operations, we invite you to apply. Join our team and help create a successful, positive, and memorable experience for our league participants, families, staff, and community partners.

Key Responsibilities: Oversee operations for assigned NFL FLAG league locations Serve as the primary point of contact for league participants and patrons Communicate in a timely, professional manner using proper etiquette with peers, staff, and patrons Build league schedules within budget guidelines Form teams and manage rosters in accordance with league policies Prepare leagues for season launch and manage in-season operations Support retention and soft sales efforts to grow league participation Assist with off-season marketing initiatives as needed Staff Communication & Coordination: Maintain weekly communication with Field Managers through calls and texts Communicate weekly with referees to ensure readiness and alignment Assist in hiring staff and confirm weekly availability before each weekend of games Collaborate with Admin and senior leadership on staffing and operational needs Be available on weekends during the season to assist at or run fields as needed Customer Experience & Leadership: Provide strong, professional customer service and resolve issues effectively Lead from the heart by helping kids feel welcome, supported, and part of a positive environment Keep the focus on the kids and the overall participant experience Be understanding with patrons while still following and enforcing company policies Remain calm, logical, and level-headed under pressure Be a good peer and strong teammate with excellent communication skills Qualifications: Strong customer service presence and communication skills Kid-friendly personality with a genuine passion for creating a positive experience for children Ability to multitask and stay organized in a fast-paced environment Highly proficient with technology, including the use of smartphones and mobile apps, Outlook, Google Workspace, ChatGPT prompts, and online systems Adaptable and comfortable learning new systems, programs, and processes Logical thinker who can make sound decisions under pressure Dependable, proactive, and accountable season after season Available on weekends during the season to support operations on the fields you oversee Must be able to pass a background check Preferred Experience: Background in sports management, league operations, or youth programming Experience coordinating staff or managing events Familiarity with scheduling, roster management, and online software What We’re Looking For: We are looking for someone we can count on season after season. This person should take ownership of their leagues, communicate clearly and professionally, support their team, and care deeply about creating a great experience for every child and family involved in our programs. At Just Compete Sports, it’s all about the kids.

Employment Type: Full Time Salary: $25 - $27 Hourly Bonus/Commission: No