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Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Our referees play an essential role in creating a safe, fair, competitive, and enjoyable game-day experience for young athletes, volunteer coaches, and families. Referees are responsible for ...

Flag Football Referee

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

NFL FLAG Football Referee Position Summary The NFL FLAG Football Referee is responsible for officiating youth flag football (Grades K-8) games in a fair, consistent, and positive manner while ...

REFEREE

Ventura, CA

$17.50 - $19.50/hr

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game * Develop player's through teaching moments during the games * Start all ...

Referee

South Lake Tahoe, CA · On-site

$20.27 - $25.87/hr

Description The City of South Lake Tahoe is currently seeking referees to assist with the following leagues. The estimated hours are 24 - 32 hours per league. Youth Basketball Saturdays March 1 - ...

REFEREE

Ventura, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $19.50/hr

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game * Develop player's through teaching moments during the games * Start all ...

Our referees play an essential role in creating a safe, fair, competitive, and enjoyable game-day experience for young athletes, volunteer coaches, and families. Referees are responsible for ...

Referee

Boston, MA · On-site

We are currently seeking Intramural Referees for our intramural sports leagues within one of our university athletic facilities located in Boston, MA. The shift days and hours will vary. Job Overview:

Referee

Boston, MA · On-site

We are currently seeking Intramural Referees for our intramural sports leagues within one of our university athletic facilities located in Boston, MA. The shift days and hours will vary. Job Overview:

GENERAL SUMMARY Arena Sports Referees are an essential part of what makes us great. They provide a safe, fun, friendly, and structured environment for League players, helping to ensure a great ...

We are currently seeking Intramural Referees for our intramural sports leagues within one of our university athletic facilities located in Boston, MA. The shift days and hours will vary. Job Overview:

REFEREE

Ventura, CA

$17.50 - $19.50/hr

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game * Develop player's through teaching moments during the games * Start all ...

REFEREE

Ventura, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $19.50/hr

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game * Develop player's through teaching moments during the games * Start all ...

Youth Soccer Referee

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$21 - $31/hr

Referee must attend a mandatory referee meeting/training prior to the start of a season * Arrive at your scheduled game 15 minutes early to meet the teams and also perform a visual inspection of the ...

REFEREE

Falmouth, VA · On-site

Referees will support the work of the YMCA, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Now Hiring a Basketball Referee at the Macomb YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment * Employee ...

REFEREE

Falmouth, VA · On-site

Referees will support the work of the YMCA, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening the community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

REFEREE

Solvang, CA · On-site

$17.51 - $18.51/hr

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game * Develop player's through teaching moments during the games * Start all ...

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How much do referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for referee in the United States is $20.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $22.12 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 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 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 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.

Are referees in high demand?

Referees are generally in steady demand, especially in sports leagues, schools, and recreational organizations. Opportunities can vary based on the sport, level of competition, and region, with certifications often required to qualify for paid positions.

Can you make a living being a referee?

Referees can make a living depending on the level of competition, experience, and the sport. Professional referees in major leagues or tournaments often earn a full-time income, while amateur or youth referees typically supplement their income with other jobs. Certification and consistent scheduling are important for career advancement and earning potential.

What cities are hiring for Referee jobs?

Cities with the most Referee job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Referee jobs?

The most popular types of Referee jobs are:

What states have the most Referee jobs?

States with the most job openings for Referee jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Referee jobs?

For Referee jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Referee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,539 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Part-time, Contractor

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Organizations: NFL FLAG and Girls Play Flag Football
Employment Type: Part-Time, Seasonal, 1099 Independent Contractor
Minimum Age: 16
Season: Mid-September through mid-November 2026
Schedule: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, depending on league location
Locations: Kansas City metropolitan area and surrounding Kansas and Missouri communities

Available League Locations

Referee opportunities may be available at the following league locations:

  • Overland Park, Kansas

  • Olathe, Kansas

  • Lawrence, Kansas

  • Liberty, Missouri

  • North Kansas City, Missouri

  • South Kansas City, Missouri

Game days vary by league location and may take place on Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays.

Assignments will be based on league needs, referee availability, experience, location preference, and proximity to each league location. Applicants may be considered for one or multiple locations.

Position Overview

NFL FLAG and Girls Play Flag Football are seeking dependable, level-headed, and professional referees to officiate youth flag football games during the Fall 2026 season.

Our referees play an essential role in creating a safe, fair, competitive, and enjoyable game-day experience for young athletes, volunteer coaches, and families. 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 candidate communicates confidently, remains calm during challenging situations, works well as part of a team, and demonstrates sound judgment and professionalism. Previous officiating experience is preferred but not required.

Applicants must be reliable and able to commit to working each assigned weekend throughout the season. This is a seasonal, part-time, 1099 independent contractor opportunity.

Key Responsibilities

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

  • Promote player safety, fair competition, inclusion, and good sportsmanship.

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

  • Monitor game play and address rule violations appropriately.

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

  • Address unsportsmanlike behavior and on-field disagreements without escalating the situation.

  • Communicate clearly with players, volunteer coaches, parents, Field Managers, league staff, and fellow officials.

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

  • Assist with field and equipment setup or cleanup when needed.

  • Follow all referee uniform and equipment requirements.

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

  • Remain current on league rules, procedures, and officiating expectations.

  • Attend weekly referee calls or review the weekly call recording during the season.

  • Arrive on time and prepared for every assigned game day.

  • Maintain reliable availability for assigned weekends throughout the Fall 2026 season.

  • Notify the appropriate supervisor as early as possible when an unavoidable emergency affects availability.

  • Officiate divisional tournaments and other scheduled league events when assigned.

Required Qualifications

  • Must be at least 16 years old.

  • Able to work as a 1099 independent contractor.

  • Dependable, punctual, level-headed, and professional.

  • Able to commit to working each assigned weekend throughout the Fall 2026 season.

  • Able to remain calm and make fair decisions in fast-paced or challenging situations.

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

  • Able to interact respectfully and impartially with children, coaches, parents, staff, and fellow officials.

  • Reliable transportation to assigned league locations in Kansas or Missouri.

  • Available to work assigned Fridays, Saturdays, or Sundays, depending on league location.

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

  • Able to attend weekly referee calls or review the recorded call each week.

  • Physically able to stand, walk, jog, and run throughout multiple games.

  • Comfortable working outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous experience officiating football, flag football, or another sport.

  • Knowledge of football or flag football rules and game procedures.

  • Current NFL FLAG certification or comparable officiating certification.

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

  • CPR or First Aid certification is a plus.

Physical Requirements

Referees must be physically capable of standing, walking, jogging, and running throughout multiple games. Officials must be able to keep pace with game play and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.

Reasonable accommodations may be considered for qualified individuals when they do not prevent the individual from performing the essential responsibilities of the position.

Compensation and Professional Development

  • Compensation is provided on a 1099 independent contractor basis.

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

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

  • Additional assignments may be offered based on performance, reliability, league needs, and availability.

Why Join Our Team?

This opportunity is a great fit for experienced officials, student-athletes, coaches, teachers, sports professionals, and individuals interested in building experience in youth sports.

As a referee, you will have the opportunity to:

  • Make a positive impact on young athletes.

  • Support both coed and girls’ flag football programs.

  • Build leadership, communication, and conflict-resolution skills.

  • Gain or expand sports officiating experience.

  • Work in an active, fast-paced, and team-oriented environment.

  • Be considered for additional games, tournaments, camps, and special events.

Apply Today

If you are dependable, confident, fair-minded, and passionate about creating a positive youth sports experience, we encourage you to apply.

Join our NFL FLAG and Girls Play Flag Football officiating team and help us provide a safe, fair, and enjoyable Fall 2026 season for athletes and families throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area.

Employment Type: Temp/Seasonal
Years Experience: Less than 1 year
Salary: $15 - $30 Hourly
Bonus/Commission: No