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Referee In Soccer Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Youth Soccer Officials

Shoreview, MN ยท On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Games are played at various parks in Shoreview and the neighboring cities of Arden Hills, Fridley ... Accreditation from a nationally recognized soccer referee certification organization (e.g. U.S.

Youth Soccer Officials

Saint Paul, MN ยท On-site

$17 - $25/hr

Games are played at various parks in Shoreview and the neighboring cities of Arden Hills, Fridley ... soccer referee certification organization (e.g. U.S. Soccer Federation) OTHER Hours Fall League ...

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 Minnesota are hiring for Referee In Soccer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Referee In Soccer job openings in Minnesota as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 22% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Youth Soccer Officials

Shoreview, MN โ€ข On-site

City of Shoreview, MN
Public Administrationย โ€ขย 201 - 500 employees

$17 - $25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago


Job description

Salary: $17.00 - $25.00 Hourly
Location : Shoreview, MN
Job Type: Associate
Job Number: 2026.60
Department: Parks & Rec Dept - Sports Programs
Opening Date: 07/28/2026
DESCRIPTION
The City of Shoreview is now hiring soccer officials for our fall youth soccer leagues. Our Leagues focus on learning the basic skills, fundamentals, and rules of soccer. Our program works to improve participant's skill level in a fun and friendly atmosphere. Teams are coached by volunteers and scores/standings are not kept for these games.
Games are played at various parks in Shoreview and the neighboring cities of Arden Hills, Fridley, Mounds View, or New Brighton. Officials hired for this position will only officiate games played at fields located in Shoreview.
Fall Leagues
League divisions range between Grades Pre-K - 6. Games are played on Saturday mornings and will run September 12 - October 17. Games are scheduled to last around one hour and start at 9 am, 10:15 am, and 11:30 am.
DUTIES INCLUDE
  • Officiate games as assigned using the modified rules established for each age group.
  • Arrive 15 minutes prior to game time to check-in with the teams/coaches, and check the equipment and field.
  • Start games on time.
  • Tactfully communicate with players, coaches, and parents/spectators. Explain fouls and penalties to players.
  • Have the teams line up and shake hands at the end of the game.

QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Age 15 or older
  • General knowledge of soccer rules
  • Good interpersonal skills
  • CPR/First Aid/AED and concussion training (will be provided post-hiring if needed)

Desired Qualifications:
  • Previous officiating experience
  • Prior playing experience
  • Accreditation from a nationally recognized soccer referee certification organization (e.g. U.S. Soccer Federation)

OTHER
Hours
Fall League (September - October)
Saturdays, 8:45am - 12:45pm, 2-4 hours/week
Deadline: Open until filled
*** Free Community Center Membership ***
Physical Demands:
Employee frequently stands, walks, jogs, and runs while officiating youth soccer games for Pre-K through Grade 6 participants. Position requires visual focus, quick directional changes, and work on grass or turf fields. Duties include bending, reaching, and setting up or checking equipment. Employee may occasionally lift or carry up to 25 lbs.
Environmental Conditions:
Work is performed outdoors at Shoreview athletic fields with exposure to sun, rain, wind, humidity, and varying temperatures. Summer games occur weekday evenings June-July; fall games occur Saturday mornings September-October. Evening and weekend hours are required. Hazards are moderate and typical of youth sports officiating.
The City of Shoreview is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a
culturally diverse workforce and encourage all qualified candidates to apply.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, reasonable accommodations are offered to qualified individuals with disabilities. Prospective and current employees are encouraged to discuss potential accommodations with the employer.
Associate employees enjoy a free membership to the Community Center, free parking, direct deposit (required) and uniforms (where applicable).
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Please assist us in evaluating your skills and abilities by completing this supplemental questionnaire. The information you provide will be reviewed and used to determine your eligibility to move forward in the selection process. Incomplete responses, false statements, omissions, or partial information may result in disqualification from the selection process. Do you agree to answer each supplemental question truthfully and that your responses can be verified from the information included within the application?
  • Yes
  • No

02
Are you at least 15 years old?
  • Yes
  • No

03
If you answered No to the above question, when will you be 15 years old?
04
Do you have general knowledge of soccer rules?
  • Yes
  • No

05
How many years of experience do you have playing soccer?
  • I do not have this experience
  • Less than 1 year experience
  • 1 year experience
  • 2 or more years experience

06
How many years of experience do you have officiating soccer?
  • I do not have this experience
  • Less than 1 year experience
  • 1 year experience
  • 2 or more years experience

07
Have you acquired a soccer referee certification through a nationally recognized organization (e.g. U.S. Soccer Federation)?
  • Yes
  • No

08
If you answered Yes to the above question, through which organization and when does the certification expire?
Required Question