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Professional Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Position Overview Colorado NFL Flag is seeking dependable, level-headed, and professional referees to officiate youth flag football games during the Fall 2026 season. NFL FLAG Referees play an ...

Referee

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$25/hr

Referees need to be professional, great communicators, organized, and capable of managing stressful situations. Responsibilities * Welcome teams onto the field * Review rosters and game schedules

Referee

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$25/hr

Referees need to be professional, great communicators, organized, and capable of managing stressful situations. Responsibilities * Welcome teams onto the field * Review rosters and game schedules

Referee

Las Vegas, NV · On-site

$25/hr

Referees need to be professional, great communicators, organized, and capable of managing stressful situations. Responsibilities * Welcome teams onto the field * Review rosters and game schedules

Referee

Lincoln City, OR · On-site

$15.05 - $17.55/hr

Description Part-Time Referee Parks and Recreation Department--Community Center Non-Represented/No ... Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively, respectfully, professionally and with confidence ...

REFEREE

Poulsbo, WA

$20 - $32/hr

Uphold professional standards, including punctuality, dress code, and ethical conduct. Stay current ... Referee positions.

Football Referee

Manteca, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

The Football Referee is responsible for enforcing the rules of the game during matches in a fair, consistent, and professional manner. This role is located at our Big League Dreams Manteca location ...

Tax Referee (Exempt)

Olympia, WA · On-site +1

$8.0K - $10K/mo

If you are motivated by thoughtful legal analysis, professional independence, and meaningful public service, we encourage you to apply. Why Join the Board of Tax Appeals? The work as a Tax Referee is ...

The primary focus of the Referee role will be officiating games for our members and programs ... Free professional development courses through internal learning management systems * Discounted ...

Manage games professionally and consistently to the standards of Arena Sports * Review game ... Referee games while assisting league players in understanding rules specific to indoor soccer

Referee must attend a mandatory referee meeting/training prior to the start of a season * Arrive at ... We believe in taking care of our team and supporting our members both professionally and personally.

Referee

Seattle, WA · On-site

Manage games professionally and consistently to the standards of Arena Sports * Review game ... Referee games while assisting league players in understanding rules specific to indoor soccer

Referee

WA · On-site

Manage games professionally and consistently to the standards of Arena Sports * Review game ... Referee games while assisting league players in understanding rules specific to indoor soccer

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Professional Referee information

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How much do professional referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional 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 the main challenges a Professional Referee faces during high-stakes matches?

Professional Referees often encounter high-pressure situations, especially during crucial moments in competitive matches. Managing intense emotions from players, coaches, and fans while maintaining impartiality can be demanding. Additionally, referees must make quick, accurate decisions in real time, sometimes with limited visibility, and handle instant feedback or criticism. Strong communication skills and mental resilience are essential to effectively manage these challenges and ensure fair play.

How much does a D1 ref get paid?

A Division 1 referee typically earns between $2,000 and $4,000 per game, depending on the league and level of competition. They often officiate multiple games per season and may need certification and experience to qualify for higher-paying assignments.

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

To thrive as a Professional Referee, you need in-depth knowledge of the applicable sport's rules, strong decision-making skills, and relevant certifications from governing bodies. Familiarity with officiating technologies like instant replay systems and wearable communication devices is often required. Outstanding focus, impartiality, and effective communication help referees manage high-pressure situations and maintain authority on the field. These abilities are crucial to ensure fair play, player safety, and the integrity of the competition.

What is the difference between Professional Referee vs Sports Official?

AspectProfessional RefereeSports Official
CredentialsCertifications in officiating sports, training in rules and regulationsCertifications vary by sport, includes rules knowledge and sometimes specialized training
Work EnvironmentStadiums, sports fields, arenas during gamesStadiums, gyms, sports complexes during events
Employer & IndustrySports leagues, associations, governing bodiesSports organizations, leagues, local clubs
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Both Professional Referees and Sports Officials are responsible for enforcing rules during sporting events. While their roles are similar, referees often have more responsibilities, such as making critical decisions and managing game flow. Both roles require specialized certifications and are employed by sports organizations. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the sports officiating industry.

What is the highest paying referee job?

The highest paying referee jobs are often in professional sports leagues, such as the National Football League (NFL), NBA, or Major League Baseball (MLB), where referees can earn six-figure salaries. These roles typically require extensive experience, certification, and the ability to work in high-pressure environments, with some officials earning over $100,000 annually depending on the league and level of competition.

What are Professional Referees?

Professional referees are officials who oversee and enforce the rules in sports competitions at a professional level. Their responsibilities include making impartial decisions, ensuring fair play, and maintaining the integrity of the game. Professional referees often undergo rigorous training, certification, and regularly participate in continuing education to stay updated on rule changes. They may work in various sports such as soccer, basketball, football, or hockey and are often employed by sports leagues or associations.

How much money do pro refs make?

Professional referees' earnings vary depending on the sport, level of competition, and experience. For example, top-tier referees in major leagues can earn from several thousand to over fifty thousand dollars per season, often supplemented by game fees, stipends, or per-match payments. Many referees also need certifications and must stay current with training requirements.

How can I become a professional referee?

To become a professional referee, you typically need to complete specific training and certification programs offered by sports governing bodies, gain experience officiating at lower levels, and demonstrate strong knowledge of the rules and good decision-making skills. Some leagues or organizations may require background checks and physical fitness assessments. Progression often involves advancing through different levels of officiating before reaching professional status.
What cities are hiring for Professional Referee jobs? Cities with the most Professional Referee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Referee jobs? The most popular types of Referee jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Referee jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Referee jobs include:
Infographic showing various Professional Referee job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, and 5% 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, Contractor

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Organizations: NFL FLAG and Girls Play Flag Football
Employment Type: Part-Time, Seasonal, 1099 Independent Contractor
Minimum Age: 16
Season: Mid-September through mid-November 2026
Schedule: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, depending on league location
Locations: Kansas City metropolitan area and surrounding Kansas and Missouri communities

Available League Locations

Referee opportunities may be available at the following league locations:

  • Overland Park, Kansas

  • Olathe, Kansas

  • Lawrence, Kansas

  • Liberty, Missouri

  • North Kansas City, Missouri

  • South Kansas City, Missouri

Game days vary by league location and may take place on Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays.

Assignments will be based on league needs, referee availability, experience, location preference, and proximity to each league location. Applicants may be considered for one or multiple locations.

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 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 enforcing league rules, monitoring player safety, promoting sportsmanship, managing game conduct, and making timely and impartial decisions on the field.

The ideal candidate communicates confidently, remains calm during challenging situations, works well as part of a team, and demonstrates sound judgment and professionalism. Previous officiating experience is preferred but not required.

Applicants must be reliable and able to commit to working each assigned weekend throughout the season. This is a seasonal, part-time, 1099 independent contractor opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

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

  • Promote player safety, fair competition, inclusion, and good sportsmanship.

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

  • Monitor game play and address rule violations appropriately.

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

  • Address unsportsmanlike behavior and on-field disagreements without escalating the situation.

  • Communicate clearly with players, volunteer coaches, parents, Field Managers, league staff, and fellow officials.

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

  • Assist with field and equipment setup or cleanup when needed.

  • Follow all referee uniform and equipment requirements.

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

  • Remain current on league rules, procedures, and officiating expectations.

  • Attend weekly referee calls or review the weekly call recording during the season.

  • Arrive on time and prepared for every assigned game day.

  • Maintain reliable availability for assigned weekends throughout the Fall 2026 season.

  • Notify the appropriate supervisor as early as possible when an unavoidable emergency affects availability.

  • Officiate divisional tournaments and other scheduled league events when assigned.

Required Qualifications

  • Must be at least 16 years old.

  • Able to work as a 1099 independent contractor.

  • Dependable, punctual, level-headed, and professional.

  • Able to commit to working each assigned weekend throughout the Fall 2026 season.

  • Able to remain calm and make fair decisions in fast-paced or challenging situations.

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

  • Able to interact respectfully and impartially with children, coaches, parents, staff, and fellow officials.

  • Reliable transportation to assigned league locations in Kansas or Missouri.

  • Available to work assigned Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays, depending on league location.

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

  • Able to attend weekly referee calls or review the recorded call each week.

  • Physically able to stand, walk, jog, and run throughout multiple games.

  • Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous experience officiating football, flag football, or another sport.

  • Knowledge of football or flag football rules and game procedures.

  • Current NFL FLAG certification or comparable officiating certification.

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

  • CPR or First Aid certification is a plus.

Physical Requirements

Referees must be physically capable of standing, walking, jogging, and running throughout multiple games. Officials must be able to keep pace with game play and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Reasonable accommodations may be considered for qualified individuals when they do not prevent the individual from performing the essential responsibilities of the position.

Compensation and Professional Development

  • Compensation is provided on a 1099 independent contractor basis.

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

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

  • Additional assignments may be offered based on performance, reliability, league needs, and availability.

Why Join Our Team?

This opportunity is a great fit for experienced officials, student-athletes, coaches, teachers, sports professionals, and individuals interested in building experience in youth sports.

As a referee, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Make a positive impact on young athletes.

  • Support both coed and girls’ flag football programs.

  • Build leadership, communication, and conflict-resolution skills.

  • Gain or expand sports officiating experience.

  • Work in an active, fast-paced, and team-oriented environment.

  • Be considered for additional games, tournaments, camps, and special events.

Apply Today

If you are dependable, confident, fair-minded, and passionate about creating a positive youth sports experience, we encourage you to apply.

Join our NFL FLAG and Girls Play Flag Football officiating team and help us provide a safe, fair, and enjoyable Fall 2026 season for athletes and families throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area.


Employment Type: Temp/Seasonal
Years Experience: Less than 1 year
Salary: $15 - $30 Hourly
Bonus/Commission: No