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Referee Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Colorado NFL FLAG

NFL Flag Referee

Colorado Springs, CO

$20 - $35/hr

NFL FLAG Referee Locations: Colorado Springs and Castle Rock, Colorado Season: Fall 2026 -- Sundays, mid-September through mid-November Position Type: Seasonal, Part-Time, 1099 Independent Contractor ...

Colorado NFL FLAG

NFL Flag Referee

Denver, CO

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 ...

Denver Public Schools

REFEREE, STUDENT

Denver, CO · On-site

$20/hr

** Applications will be received, interested applicants must apply online by visiting the Denver Public Schools job board at careers.dpsk12.org. ** About this job: Supports individual, team or ...

Denver Public Schools

REFEREE, STUDENT

Denver, CO · On-site

$20/hr

** Applications will be received, interested applicants must apply online by visiting the Denver Public Schools job board at careers.dpsk12.org. ** About this job: Supports individual, team or ...

TOCA Football

Soccer League Referee

Denver, CO · 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 learn, where they ...

TOCA Football

Soccer League Referee

Denver, CO · On-site

$35/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 learn, where they ...

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All JobsReferee JobsReferee Jobs in Colorado

Referee information

See Colorado salary details

$6

$22

$61

How much do referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for referee in Colorado is $22.01, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.64 and $23.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Referee?

A referee is an official who monitors a sport, such as football games, on the field of play to enforce rules, determine scores, and ensure fair play. Referees can be found at all levels of competition, beginning at the youth recreational level all the way up to the college and professional leagues. As a referee, your job duties also include monitoring player safety, assessing penalties for rules infractions, and keeping up with the amount of game time left to play in the match. You often work with a team of other officials to cover the entire field of play.

What qualifications do I need to become a referee?

To become a referee, you typically need to complete a certification or training course approved by the relevant sports or governing body, which covers rules, safety, and officiating techniques. Some positions may require a minimum age, good physical fitness, and knowledge of the sport's rules, with ongoing education or recertification often necessary to maintain qualification.

How to get hired as a referee?

To get hired as a referee, you typically need to obtain relevant certifications or training from a recognized sports organization, gain experience through volunteering or officiating smaller games, and demonstrate good communication and decision-making skills. Employers often look for a clean background check and a good understanding of the rules of the sport. Applying to local leagues, sports clubs, or officiating agencies is also common.

What is the difference between Referee vs Umpire?

AspectRefereeUmpire
CredentialsOften requires certification or training specific to the sportTypically requires sport-specific training and certification
Work EnvironmentOn-field, active participation in sports eventsOn-field or behind-the-scenes, depending on sport
Industry UsageCommonly used in sports like soccer, basketball, and hockeyUsed in sports like baseball, cricket, and tennis
Search & ComparisonOften searched by those interested in sports officiating rolesCompared for different sports officiating roles

While both referees and umpires officiate sports, referees generally oversee the entire game and make final decisions, whereas umpires focus on specific aspects or areas of play. Understanding these differences helps clarify job roles in various sports industries.

What are some common challenges referees face during high-stakes games, and how can they handle them effectively?

Referees often encounter intense pressure during high-stakes games, including dealing with passionate players, coaches, and fans, as well as making split-second decisions that can impact the outcome. Maintaining composure and clear communication is essential to manage on-field conflicts and ensure fair play. Referees can handle these challenges by staying up-to-date with rule changes, participating in regular training, and developing strong conflict resolution skills. Building rapport with teams and relying on support from officiating colleagues also helps manage stressful situations more effectively.

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

To thrive as a Referee, you need a deep understanding of the sport’s rules, quick decision-making abilities, and often certification from a recognized officiating body. Familiarity with scorekeeping systems, video review technology, and communication devices is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, assertiveness, and composure under pressure help referees manage players, coaches, and high-stakes situations. These competencies are crucial for ensuring fair play, maintaining order, and upholding the integrity of the game.

What are referees?

Referees are officials responsible for enforcing the rules and maintaining order during sporting events. They make decisions on plays, resolve disputes between players or teams, and ensure fair play. Referees use their knowledge of the game and quick judgment to keep competitions safe and fair for all participants. Their role is crucial in upholding the integrity of sports.

How much do refs get paid?

Referees' pay varies depending on the level of competition and location. For example, youth sports referees may earn $10 to $30 per game, while high school and college referees can earn $50 to $200 per game or more. Certification and experience often influence pay rates, and referees typically work on a part-time basis with flexible schedules.

What is the highest paying referee job?

The highest paying referee jobs are typically in professional sports leagues, such as the National Football League (NFL), Major League Baseball (MLB), or the National Basketball Association (NBA), where referees can earn six-figure salaries. These positions often require extensive experience, certification, and the ability to officiate at the highest competitive levels. Pay varies based on league, experience, and game frequency.
More about Referee jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Referee jobs in Colorado? The most popular types of Referee jobs in Colorado are:
What are popular job titles related to Referee jobs in Colorado? For Referee jobs in Colorado, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Referee jobs in Colorado look for? The top searched job categories for Referee jobs in Colorado are:
What cities in Colorado are hiring for Referee jobs? Cities in Colorado with the most Referee job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Referee jobs in CO? For Referee jobs in CO, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Referee job openings in Colorado as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 54% Full Time, 39% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,782 per year, or $22 per hour.

NFL Flag Referee

Colorado NFL FLAG

Colorado Springs, CO

$20 - $35/hr

Full-time, Part-time, Contractor

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

NFL FLAG Referee

Locations: Colorado Springs and Castle Rock, Colorado
Season: Fall 2026 — Sundays, mid-September through mid-November
Position Type: Seasonal, Part-Time, 1099 Independent Contractor

Job Summary

Colorado NFL Flag is seeking dependable, professional, and enthusiastic referees to officiate youth flag football games during our Fall 2026 Sunday season in Colorado Springs and Castle Rock.

As an NFL FLAG Referee, you will play an important role in creating a safe, fair, and enjoyable game-day experience for players, coaches, and families. Referees are responsible for enforcing NFL FLAG rules, promoting sportsmanship, monitoring player safety, managing conduct, and making fair and unbiased decisions throughout each game.

The ideal candidate is level-headed, professional, dependable, and able to remain calm in fast-paced or challenging situations. Referees must communicate confidently, work well with others, and maintain a positive and impartial presence on the field.

This is a seasonal, part-time, 1099 independent contractor position.

Responsibilities

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

  • Promote fair play, player safety, and good sportsmanship throughout each game.

  • Monitor game play and penalize rule violations as needed.

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

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

  • Address unsportsmanlike behavior and on-field disputes appropriately.

  • Communicate clearly and respectfully with players, volunteer coaches, parents, Field Managers, staff, and fellow referees.

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

  • Assist with field and equipment setup and cleanup as needed.

  • Follow all referee uniform requirements, including wearing proper attire and bringing required officiating equipment.

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

  • Stay current on league rules, procedures, mechanics, and officiating expectations.

  • Attend weekly referee calls or review the recorded call each week during the season.

  • Participate in training and development opportunities throughout the year.

  • Maintain reliable Sunday availability throughout the Fall 2026 season.

  • Be available to officiate divisional tournaments and other scheduled league events.

Required Qualifications

  • Must be at least 17 years of age.

  • Ability to work as a 1099 independent contractor.

  • Level-headed, professional, and dependable.

  • Ability to remain calm and composed during fast-paced or challenging situations.

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

  • Ability to make quick, fair, and confident decisions under pressure.

  • Professional and impartial when working with players, coaches, parents, and staff.

  • Knowledge of football or flag football rules is preferred.

  • Reliable transportation to assigned league locations in Colorado Springs or Castle Rock.

  • Availability to work Sundays from mid-September through mid-November 2026.

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

  • Ability to attend weekly referee calls or review weekly call recordings.

  • Physically capable of running, jogging, standing, and remaining active throughout multiple games.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous experience officiating football, flag football, or other sports.

  • Current NFL FLAG certification or certification through another officiating program.

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

  • CPR and First Aid certification is a plus.

Physical Requirements

Referees must be physically capable of standing, walking, jogging, and running throughout multiple games. This position requires working outdoors in varying Colorado weather conditions.

Compensation and Opportunities

  • Compensation is paid on a 1099 independent contractor basis.

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

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

Join Our Team

If you enjoy football, work well in a fast-paced environment, and want to make a positive impact in youth sports, we encourage you to apply.

Join Colorado NFL Flag and help us provide a safe, fair, and enjoyable Fall 2026 season for players and families in Colorado Springs and Castle Rock.


Employment Type: Temp/Seasonal
Years Experience: 1 - 3 years
Salary: $20 - $35 Hourly
Bonus/Commission: No