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Professional Soccer Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gurnee Park District

Youth Soccer Referee

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$21 - $31/hr

Under the direction and supervision of the Athletics Supervisor, the youth soccer referee will be ... We believe in taking care of our team and supporting our members both professionally and personally.

Gurnee Park District

Youth Soccer Referee

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$21 - $31/hr

Under the direction and supervision of the Athletics Supervisor, the youth soccer referee will be ... We believe in taking care of our team and supporting our members both professionally and personally.

City of Corvallis

Adult Soccer Referee

Corvallis, OR · On-site

Referees manage game flow, monitor player conduct, enforce fouls and misconduct rules, and handle disputes professionally and confidently. They must have a solid understanding of soccer rules, good ...

AEG

Thursday Soccer Referee (Part Time)

Miami, FL · On-site

$14 - $35/hr

Prior soccer referee experience is required * Must have reliable transportation to and from field ... Must value punctuality and professionalism * Experience in diffusing challenging situations a plus ...

Peoria Park District

Adult Soccer Referee

Peoria, IL · On-site

$35/hr

Duties : Under the supervision of the Athletics Coordinator, the Adult Soccer Referee is ... Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and ...

Peoria Park District

Youth Soccer Referee

Peoria, IL

$25/hr

Duties : Under the supervision of the Athletics Coordinator, the Youth Soccer Referee is ... Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and ...

Peoria Park District

Adult Soccer Referee

Peoria, IL

$35/hr

Duties : Under the supervision of the Athletics Coordinator, the Adult Soccer Referee is ... Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and ...

i9 Sports

Youth Soccer Referee

Seattle, WA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Positive attitude and a strong ability to build professional relationships * Ability to work ... soccer, basketball, baseball, volleyball, and lacrosse. To achieve our mission of helping kids ...

Peoria Park District

Youth Soccer Referee

Peoria, IL · On-site

$25/hr

Duties : Under the supervision of the Athletics Coordinator, the Youth Soccer Referee is ... Ability to be professional, respectful, accountable, innovative, to follow safety procedures, and ...

i9 Sports

Youth Soccer Referee

Seattle, WA · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

Positive attitude and a strong ability to build professional relationships * Ability to work ... soccer, basketball, baseball, volleyball, and lacrosse. To achieve our mission of helping kids ...

AEG

Soccer Referee & Host (Part-Time)

Denver, CO · On-site

$20 - $35/hr

Whether it's a performance sport like soccer, or a social activity like cornhole, Volo provides ... Must value punctuality and professionalism * Prior referee experience a plus, but not required

AEG

Referee - Soccer (Part-Time)

Boston, MA · On-site

$22.50/hr

Must value punctuality and professionalism * Prior referee experience a plus, but not required ... Have you played soccer before? * Have you refereed soccer before? * Are you confident refereeing ...

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Professional Soccer Referee information

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How much do professional soccer referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional soccer referee in the United States is $17.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are professional soccer referees?

Professional soccer referees are officials responsible for enforcing the rules and regulations of the game during matches at the professional level. They oversee play, make decisions on fouls, goals, and misconduct, and ensure that the game is played fairly and safely. Referees must have a deep understanding of the Laws of the Game, maintain physical fitness, and demonstrate impartiality at all times. They often work with assistant referees and video assistant referees (VAR) to make accurate decisions. Becoming a professional referee typically requires years of experience, formal training, and certification from recognized football associations.

How much does a soccer referee earn?

The earnings of a professional soccer referee vary depending on the level of competition and location. In general, referees can earn from a few hundred to several thousand dollars per match, with higher payments for professional and international games. Many referees also receive additional compensation for training, certifications, and travel expenses.

How do I become a professional soccer referee?

To become a professional soccer referee, you typically need to complete a certification course through your national or regional soccer association, gain experience by officiating at lower levels, and pass fitness and knowledge tests. Many leagues require referees to be at least 18 years old and to maintain ongoing training and assessments.

What are some common challenges faced by professional soccer referees during matches?

Professional soccer referees often face the challenge of making split-second decisions in high-pressure situations, sometimes under intense scrutiny from players, coaches, and fans. Managing on-field disputes and maintaining authority while ensuring fair play is another key aspect of the role. Additionally, referees must stay physically fit to keep up with the fast pace of the game and consistently apply the rules despite varying levels of player skill and tactics. Effective communication and teamwork with assistant referees are also essential to ensure accurate and consistent officiating throughout the match.

How to get a job as a soccer referee?

To become a professional soccer referee, you typically need to complete a certification course through a recognized governing body, such as the national or regional soccer association. This involves passing written and practical exams, gaining experience through local matches, and maintaining fitness standards. Advancing to higher levels often requires accumulating game experience and obtaining additional certifications.

How much money do pro soccer refs make?

Professional soccer referees typically earn between $50,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on the level of competition, experience, and the league they work in. Top referees in major leagues or international matches can earn higher salaries and additional bonuses for match assignments and performance evaluations.

What is the difference between Professional Soccer Referee vs Amateur Soccer Referee?

AspectProfessional Soccer RefereeAmateur Soccer Referee
CertificationsOfficial referee licenses, advanced trainingBasic certifications, local training
Work EnvironmentProfessional leagues, high-stakes matchesLocal clubs, community games
Employer & IndustrySports organizations, professional leaguesSchool, community, amateur clubs
Work ScheduleRegular season, travel for matchesWeekend/local games, flexible hours

Professional Soccer Referees operate at higher levels with official certifications, working in professional leagues and high-stakes matches. Amateur Soccer Referees typically officiate local or community games with basic certifications. The main differences lie in training, work environment, and the level of competition.

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

To thrive as a Professional Soccer Referee, you need an in-depth understanding of the Laws of the Game, excellent physical fitness, and usually certification from a recognized refereeing body. Familiarity with match officiating systems, communication headsets, and video assistant referee (VAR) technology is often required. Strong decision-making, leadership, and conflict resolution skills help referees manage players, coaches, and high-pressure situations. These abilities are crucial to ensuring fair play, maintaining control of the match, and upholding the integrity of the sport.
What cities are hiring for Professional Soccer Referee jobs? Cities with the most Professional Soccer Referee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Soccer Referee jobs? The most popular types of Soccer Referee jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Soccer Referee jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Soccer Referee jobs include:
Professional Soccer Referee jobs near you
Youth Soccer Referee

Youth Soccer Referee

Gurnee Park District

Gurnee, IL • On-site

$21 - $31/hr

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Under the direction and supervision of the Athletics Supervisor, the youth soccer referee will be responsible for following and enforcing league rules as they pertain to the different grade levels of soccer. They will also be responsible for maintaining the flow of the games and ensuring the safety of all participants.
PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  1. Referee must attend a mandatory referee meeting/training prior to the start of a season
  2. Arrive at your scheduled game 15 minutes early to meet the teams and also perform a visual inspection of the field noting any deficiencies to the supervisor
  3. Check all teams for any jewelry prior to the start of a game
  4. Control the flow of the soccer game for the level on which they are assigned
  5. Ensure the safety of all players during a given game
  6. Be able to explain the rules to the players when making calls
  7. Communicate and interact effectively with a large, diverse group of players, parents and coaches
  8. Resolve any on-field issues between players, coaches or parents that are within your capability or comfort level when they happen; Any issues that cannot be resolved by the referee will be immediately communicated to the Site Supervisor and/or Athletic Supervisor
  9. Report/recap any incidents or problems with players, coaches or parents that happened during assigned games to the Site Supervisor and/or the Athletic Supervisor
  10. Hand out any materials to coaches as communicated by the Athletics Supervisor
  11. Report any red or yellow cards given during a game to the Site Supervisor or the Athletic Supervisor
  12. At the end of the day the referee will pick up all of the corner flags and bring them to the designated storage area after the last game

ADDITIONAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
This position could require you to work some weeknight evenings for re-scheduled games due to cancellations for inclement weather. Referees must supply their own whistle, stopwatch and referee shirt in a color that is not blue or yellow.
QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience: Must have a working knowledge of the rules of the game from either previous refereeing or playing experience
  • Skills: Ability to communicate effectively via e-mail, phone and in person with direct supervisor; They must also be able to communicate with a large diverse group of people participating in the soccer leagues with various ages
  • Certifications: A minimum of a Grassroots Referee Certification is preferred, but not required to start
  • Competencies: This position must possess a good knowledge of the game and be able to enforce and explain the rules

PHYSICAL DEMANDS
This position will require an employee to be on their feet for a majority of their shift in different types of weather. During the time on their feet the employee will experience different levels of exertion depending on the grade level they are officiating. At certain points in a season a referee might have to lift a box up to 25 lbs to hand out different items to teams or coaches, mainly coaches plaques.
We believe in taking care of our team and supporting our members both professionally and personally. As a valued addition to our team, you'll enjoy a comprehensive benefits package dependent on your role. Check out our offerings here.

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