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Professional Referee Jobs in Kansas (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 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 ...

Represent The J and J Soccer with professionalism, enthusiasm, and a player-first mindset. Requirements * Experience working with children is preferred. * Coaching, playing, refereeing, teaching, or ...

Youth Soccer Official

Mission, KS · On-site

$16 - $20/hr

Positive attitude and a strong ability to build professional relationships * Ability to work a varied work schedule including weekends and some evenings (for the full duration of the season, ~7 weeks ...

Soccer/Sports Official

Kansas City, KS · On-site

$15 - $20/hr

Positive attitude and a strong ability to build professional relationships * Ability to work a varied work schedule including weekends and some evenings (for the full duration of the season, ~7 weeks)

... and professional appearance at all times Job Requirements: 1. Commitment to the YMCA mission ... Referee/scorekeeper Orientations and Sports Specific Trainings each season. 5. Secures and ...

Camp Program Instructor - Hyde

Viola, KS · On-site

$15.75 - $21.50/hr

... referee while maintaining a safe environment. The Camp Program Instructor will refer camper ... Must present a neat and professional appearance at all times. Job Requirements: * Commitment to the ...

... referee while maintaining a safe environment. The Camp Program Instructor will refer camper ... Must present a neat and professional appearance at all times. Job Requirements: * Commitment to the ...

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Professional Referee information

See Kansas salary details

$5

$18

$52

How much do professional referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional referee in Kansas is $18.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.72 and $19.71 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional referee?

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 a professional referee?

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 do you become a professional referee?

To become a professional referee, individuals typically need to complete relevant training and certification programs offered by sports governing bodies, gain experience through officiating at lower levels, and demonstrate knowledge of the rules and good judgment. Maintaining physical fitness and staying updated on rule changes are also important for advancement in the profession.
What are the most commonly searched types of Referee jobs in Kansas? The most popular types of Referee jobs in Kansas are:
Infographic showing various Professional Referee job openings in Kansas as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,830 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Part-time, Contractor

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


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