Salary: $33.83 - $36.64 Hourly
Location : Community Center
Job Type: Part-Time Temporary
Department: Parks and Recreation
Division: Recreation Programs
Opening Date: 02/03/2026
Closing Date: Continuous
FLSA: Non-Exempt
The City of Gunnison is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
The City of Gunnison is dedicated to the principles of equal employment. We prohibit unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees on the basis of age over 40, race, sex, color, religion, national origin, disability, military status, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, or any other applicable status protected by federal, state or local law.
Description
The City of Gunnison Parks & Recreation Department is seeking enthusiastic and dependable
Sports Officials to support our youth and adult recreation programs. Sports Officials play a vital role in creating a safe, fair, and positive environment by officiating games, enforcing rules, and promoting good sportsmanship. This position offers a great opportunity to stay active, build leadership and communication skills, and be part of a team that supports community recreation and youth development.
This is a temporary, part-time position with flexible scheduling that typically includes evenings and weekends, depending on the sport and season. Officials may work baseball/softball, soccer, basketball, football, or other recreational sports. Ideal candidates enjoy working with people, can make quick decisions under pressure, and are committed to fostering a fun and inclusive experience for players and spectators alike. Training is provided, and prior officiating or playing experience is a plus.
Examples of Duties and Qualifications
General Purpose:
Sports Officials support the Parks & Recreation Department by ensuring that youth and adult athletic programs are conducted in a safe, fair, and sportsmanlike environment. Officials enforce the rules of the sport, manage game flow, and promote positive experiences for participants, coaches, and spectators. This position may include officiating baseball/softball, football, soccer, basketball, or other recreational sports as assigned.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
Game Management
- Officiate games in accordance with the rules, policies, and standards established by the Parks & Recreation Department and the governing sport.
- Maintain control of the game by managing play, enforcing rules, and making timely, accurate decisions.
- Ensure proper field/court setup, equipment safety, and readiness prior to each game.
- Start and end games on schedule, keeping play organized and efficient.
Safety & Conduct
- Monitor player safety and stop play when necessary to address injuries or unsafe conditions.
- Promote and model good sportsmanship for players, coaches, and spectators.
- Address unsportsmanlike behavior calmly and professionally, following department protocols for warnings, penalties, or ejections.
Communication
- Communicate clearly and respectfully with coaches, players, scorekeepers, and spectators.
- Explain rulings when appropriate and maintain a professional demeanor in all interactions.
- Report any incidents, injuries, or rule violations to the site supervisor or program coordinator.
Administrative Responsibilities
- Attend required trainings, meetings, and certification sessions as scheduled.
- Arrive on time, in proper uniform, and prepared with necessary equipment.
- Complete post-game reports or documentation when required.
- Maintain knowledge of current rules, updates, and department policies.
Other Duties and Responsibilities:
- Good interpersonal skills are necessary to communicate with players, other officials and the public.
- Perform duties as assigned by supervisor.
Job Qualifications
Required Education and Experience:
- Ages 15 and older with previous experience participating in and/or officiating the sport.
Other Necessary Requirements:
Required
- Basic knowledge of the rules and mechanics of the sport(s) assigned.
- Ability to make quick, confident decisions under pressure.
- Strong communication and conflict-resolution skills.
- Ability to work outdoors or indoors depending on sport and season.
- Must pass background checks required by the Parks & Recreation Department.
Preferred
- Prior officiating experience in recreational, school, or league settings.
- Certifications from recognized officiating organizations (e.g., NFHS, ASA/USA Softball, NFHS Football, etc.).
- Experience working with youth programs.
Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
- Represent the Parks & Recreation Department with professionalism and integrity.
- Foster a positive, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for all participants.
- Demonstrate fairness, impartiality, and consistency in all officiating duties.
Working Conditions
Work Environment:
- Part-time, seasonal, or event-based schedule depending on sport.
- Evening and weekend availability often required.
- Work performed on athletic fields, courts, or recreation facilities.
Physical Activities:
- Ability to stand, run, and move continuously for the duration of assigned games.
- Ability to lift and carry equipment up to a moderate weight.
- Ability to work in varying weather conditions for outdoor sports.
Tools and Equipment Used:
All necessary equipment will be provided by Parks & Recreation
Supervision Received:
Works under the general supervision of the Recreation Coordinator and/or Recreation Supervisor
- 48 hours of sick leave per year
- Gunnison Recreation Center membership cost covered for employee, discounted cost for group/family membership.
