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Referee Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

InstantServe LLC

Courtroom Assistant

Colorado Springs, CO · On-site

$28.84/hr

Referee Clerk duties (as assigned): prepare trial files, coordinate subpoenas, print session minutes, and merge referee orders into case files. Minimum qualifications Education: High school diploma ...

i9 Sports

Basketball Official

Windsor, CO · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Benefits/Perks * Competitive Compensation * A team-based, positive atmosphere with a focus on Fun! * Opportunity for advancement * Opportunity to build coaching skills and be a role model for ...

i9 Sports

Weekend Youth Soccer Official

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$18/hr

Benefits: * Competitive salary * Flexible schedule * Free uniforms Youth Sports Official - SOCCER Must be 16+ to apply | Weekend Availability Required Position Overview We are seeking energetic and ...

i9 Sports

Weekend Youth Basketball Official

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$18/hr

Benefits: * Competitive salary * Flexible schedule * Free uniforms Youth Sports Official - Basketball Must be 16+ to apply | Weekend Availability Required Position Overview We are seeking energetic ...

i9 Sports

Soccer Official

Windsor, CO · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Benefits/Perks * Competitive Compensation * A team-based, positive atmosphere with a focus on Fun! * Opportunity for advancement * Opportunity to build coaching skills and be a role model for ...

i9 Sports

Weekend Youth Soccer Official

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$18/hr

Benefits: * Competitive salary * Flexible schedule * Free uniforms Youth Sports Official - Soccer Must be 16+ to apply | Weekend Availability Required Position Overview We are seeking energetic and ...

i9 Sports

Weekend Youth Soccer Official

Lakewood, CO · On-site

$17 - $19/hr

Benefits: * Flexible schedule * Bonus based on performance * Opportunity for advancement Youth Sports Official - Soccer Must be 16+ to apply | Weekend Availability Required Position Overview We are ...

i9 Sports

Weekend Youth Soccer Official

Lakewood, CO · On-site

Benefits: * Bonus based on performance * Flexible schedule * Opportunity for advancement Youth Sports Official - Soccer Must be 16+ to apply | Weekend Availability Required Position Overview We are ...

i9 Sports

Soccer Official

Windsor, CO · On-site

$17 - $22/hr

Benefits/Perks * Competitive Compensation * A team-based, positive atmosphere with a focus on Fun! * Opportunity for advancement * Opportunity to build coaching skills and be a role model for ...

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Referee information

See Colorado salary details

$6

$22

$61

How much do referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 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 June 2026, with employment types broken down into 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,782 per year, or $22 per hour.
SPORTS OFFICAL/SITE LEAD

SPORTS OFFICAL/SITE LEAD

PUEBLO WEST METROPOLITAN DISTRICT

Pueblo West, CO • On-site

$12.60 - $16/hr

Other

Posted 20 days ago

Job description

NOTICE: This is an ongoing opening applicants will be contacted based on need and current openings per sport season
Job Summary
This is a seasonal position working under the direction of the Parks and Programs Manager. Responsible for supervision and officiating of sports games, help with field preparation and cleanup and control of the overall game site. Assists the Programs Manager as needed. Perform other duties as assigned.
Essential Job Functions
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include any of the following representative duties, knowledge, and skills. This is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and duties performed by incumbents of this class; employees may be assigned duties which are not listed below; reasonable accommodations will be made as required. The job description does not constitute an employment agreement and is subject to change at any time by the employer. Essential duties and responsibilities may include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Referee all sporting events according to the rules set forth
  • Assist participants, respond to questions or concerns
  • Maintains a safe and positive work environment at all times
  • Give leadership to youth on the playing field
  • Enforce all rules for the specific sport, as well as all Parks and Recreation rules and philosophies
  • Keep current on all schedule changes
  • Maintain regular communication with the Programs manager
  • Notify Programs manager of problems and concerns regarding facilities, coaches, participants, and/or spectators
  • Notify Programs manager of needed supplies and equipment
  • Field/Court set-up and clean-up
  • Respond to all emergencies in a prompt manner
  • Attend all trainings and meetings relating to the position
  • Maintain a courteous, friendly attitude and be a positive role model
  • Be advocates promoting health and safety in the workplace

Knowledge
  • Strong background in the specific sport, referee experience preferred
  • Knowledge of designated sport and department rules
  • Knowledge of standard safety practices
  • Knowledge of department policies and procedures

Skills
  • Skill in using common tools, equipment and materials specific to a sport.
  • Strong oral and communication skills

Abilities
  • Ability to understand and effectively carry out oral and written instructions
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees and coaches

Required Qualifications (Note: Any acceptable combination of education, training and experience that provides the above knowledge, abilities and skills may be substituted.)
Qualifications
  • Must be at least 14 years of age
  • Experience playing or refereeing a variety of sports preferred
  • Must be able to work evenings and weekends (Saturdays)

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
  • This is a seasonal position that is paid through a contract agreement
  • Applicants for this position must have a flexible schedule as the hours will vary based on program needs
  • Potential shifts include evenings during the week 4:30pm to 9:30pm and Saturdays 7:00am to 3:00pm

Physical Demands
  • The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to stand, sit, talk, hear, read, and write. This position requires an employee to walk or run. He/she may periodically need to reach, stoop, crouch, or kneel. Employee may be asked to lift/carry and/or move equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.

Other Duties
  • Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Pueblo West Metropolitan District is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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