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Referee In Soccer Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Gurnee Park District

Youth Soccer Referee

Gurnee, IL

$21 - $31/hr

Referees must supply their own whistle, stopwatch and referee shirt in a color that is not blue or ... the soccer leagues with various ages * Certifications : A minimum of a Grassroots Referee ...

Gurnee Park District

Youth Soccer Referee

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$21 - $31/hr

Referees must supply their own whistle, stopwatch and referee shirt in a color that is not blue or ... the soccer leagues with various ages * Certifications : A minimum of a Grassroots Referee ...

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 work harmoniously with the public and fellow employees in an enthusiastic, cooperative ...

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 work harmoniously with the public and fellow employees in an enthusiastic, cooperative ...

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 work harmoniously with the public and fellow employees in an enthusiastic, cooperative ...

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 work harmoniously with the public and fellow employees in an enthusiastic, cooperative ...

YMCA

Avery Soccer Referee

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Seeking a dynamic and committed Youth Referee to supervise competitive and non-competitive ... In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality ...

TOCA Football

Soccer League Referee

Naperville, IL · On-site

About TOCA Soccer: At TOCA, we are passionate about people and the power of sport ... We believe in creating an environment that becomes the "third home" for our guests - where they ...

AEG

Flag Football & Soccer Referee (1099)

Evanston, IL · On-site

In order to be considered for this role, after clicking "Apply Now" above and being redirected, you ... About TOCA Soccer: At TOCA, we are passionate about people and the power of sport. We believe in ...

TOCA Football

Soccer League Referee

Naperville, IL · On-site

$30/hr

About TOCA Soccer: At TOCA, we are passionate about people and the power of sport ... We believe in creating an environment that becomes the "third home" for our guests -- where they ...

AEG

Soccer League Referee

Naperville, IL · On-site

In order to be considered for this role, after clicking "Apply Now" above and being redirected, you must fully complete the application process on the follow-up screen. About TOCA Soccer: At TOCA, we ...

i9 Sports

Youth Sports Coach and Referee

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $23/hr

Played varsity high school soccer or football or softball or T-ball.....or college level in any ... You'll lead practices, referee games, ensure fun, and be a role model while keeping safety first.

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Referee In Soccer information

What is a referee in soccer?

Referees in soccer are officials responsible for enforcing the rules of the game, ensuring fair play, and making decisions on the field. They oversee matches, control the start and stop of play, and make crucial calls such as awarding goals, penalties, or issuing yellow and red cards. Referees are supported by assistant referees and, in some competitions, by video assistant referees (VAR). Their role is essential to maintaining the integrity and flow of the game.

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

To thrive as a Referee in Soccer, you need a strong understanding of the Laws of the Game, excellent physical fitness, and typically must be certified by a recognized governing body. Familiarity with referee communication systems, match reporting tools, and sometimes video assistant referee (VAR) technology is important. Outstanding decision-making, confidence under pressure, and effective communication are crucial soft skills that set top referees apart. These skills ensure fair play, maintain control of the match, and uphold the integrity of the sport.

What are some common challenges soccer referees face during matches, and how can they effectively manage them?

Soccer referees often encounter challenges such as managing player emotions, making split-second decisions under pressure, and maintaining authority while fostering a fair playing environment. Handling dissent from players and coaches requires strong communication skills and composure. Referees can effectively manage these challenges by staying up to date with the latest rules, developing strong teamwork with assistant referees, and continuously improving their conflict-resolution skills through experience and training.

What is the difference between Referee In Soccer vs Umpire in Baseball?

AspectReferee In SoccerUmpire in Baseball
CertificationsReferee certifications from soccer associationsUmpire certifications from baseball leagues
Work EnvironmentSoccer fields, stadiumsBaseball diamonds, stadiums
Industry UsageSoccer matches worldwideBaseball games primarily in North America
Roles & ResponsibilitiesEnforce rules, make calls on fouls, penaltiesMake calls on balls, strikes, safe/out calls

While both referees in soccer and umpires in baseball enforce game rules and ensure fair play, they operate in different sports environments with distinct certification requirements. Soccer referees oversee continuous play on the field, whereas baseball umpires focus on specific calls related to pitches and base running. Understanding these differences helps clarify their unique roles within their respective sports.

Can you make a career as a soccer referee?

A career as a soccer referee is possible and involves progressing through local, regional, and national levels, often requiring certification from relevant sports authorities. Referees need strong knowledge of the rules, good decision-making skills, and physical fitness, with opportunities for advancement and specialization in different leagues or competitions.

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Referee In Soccer jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Referee In Soccer job openings:

Referee In Soccer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Referee In Soccer job openings in Illinois as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 15% Full Time, 77% Part Time, and 8% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Youth Soccer Referee

Gurnee, IL

Gurnee Park District
Public Administration • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Gurnee Park Districtexternal

$21 - $31/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 3 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 offeringshere.

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