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Soccer Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Gurnee Park District

Youth Soccer Referee

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$21 - $31/hr

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 ...

JCPRD

Soccer Referee - Youth

Olathe, KS · On-site

$14 - $16/hr

Referee youth soccer leagues. * Exercise knowledge in league rules. * Give your community opportunities to participate in recreation. Some experience you will gain at JCPRD: * Conflict Resolution

JCPRD

Soccer Referee - Youth

Olathe, KS

Referee youth soccer leagues. * Exercise knowledge in league rules. * Give your community opportunities to participate in recreation. Some experience you will gain at JCPRD: * Conflict Resolution

JCPRD

Soccer Referee - Youth

Olathe, KS · On-site

Referee youth soccer leagues. * Exercise knowledge in league rules. * Give your community opportunities to participate in recreation. Some experience you will gain at JCPRD: * Conflict Resolution

Sofive

Sports Associate Referee

Covina, CA · On-site

$20/hr

About Sofive Sofive, the home of 5-a-side soccer; a new kind of soccer center. We make "the ... Position: Sport Associate Soccer Referee Job Overview: Join our dynamic team at Sofive Soccer ...

JCPRD

Soccer Referee - Adult Leagues

New Century, KS · On-site

Referee adult soccer leagues * Exercise knowledge in league rules * Give your community opportunities to participate in recreation Some experience you will gain in working at JCPRD: * Conflict ...

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Soccer Referee information

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How much do soccer referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for soccer referee in the United States is $17.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.90 and $18.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

Is becoming a soccer referee worth it?

Becoming a soccer referee can be a rewarding way to stay involved in the sport, develop leadership and communication skills, and earn extra income. It requires certification, knowledge of the rules, and the ability to handle on-field decisions in various environments.

How much does a 13 year old referee get paid?

A 13-year-old soccer referee typically earns between $10 and $20 per game, depending on the league, location, and level of experience. Youth referees often start with lower pay and may need certification or training to officiate matches. Pay can vary based on the number of games and the referee's familiarity with the rules.

What is the difference between Soccer Referee vs Soccer Umpire?

AspectSoccer RefereeSoccer Umpire
CertificationsOfficial referee certification, often from national soccer associationsUmpire certification, sometimes less formal or specific to leagues
Work EnvironmentOn-field, outdoor soccer matchesOn-field, outdoor soccer matches
Employer/IndustryLeagues, clubs, sports organizationsLeagues, clubs, sports organizations
Common Search/ComparisonSoccer Referee vs Soccer Umpire

Both soccer referees and umpires officiate soccer matches, but referees typically hold official certifications and are recognized by national associations. Umpires may have less formal certification and are often used in amateur or local leagues. While both roles involve enforcing rules and ensuring fair play on the field, referees usually have broader authority and responsibilities.

How much does a soccer referee get paid?

Soccer referees typically earn between $20 and $100 per game, depending on the level of competition, location, and experience. Higher-level referees or those officiating professional matches can earn significantly more, sometimes exceeding $1,000 per game. Many referees also receive training and certification to qualify for different match types.

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

To thrive as a Soccer Referee, you need strong knowledge of the Laws of the Game, excellent physical fitness, and often certification from an official refereeing body. Familiarity with referee communication systems and scorekeeping tools is typically required. Quick decision-making, impartiality, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing players and maintaining control of the match. These abilities ensure fair play, uphold game integrity, and facilitate smooth, safe matches.

How to get a job as a soccer referee?

To become a soccer referee, you typically need to complete a certification course through a local or national soccer association, which covers rules, game management, and safety protocols. After certification, you can register with local leagues or organizations to start officiating matches, often requiring background checks and ongoing training. Strong knowledge of the game and good decision-making skills are essential for success in this role.

What are soccer referees?

Soccer referees are officials responsible for enforcing the rules and regulations of a soccer match. They ensure fair play, make decisions on fouls, goals, and misconduct, and manage the overall flow of the game. Referees use whistles, hand signals, and sometimes technology like VAR (Video Assistant Referee) to assist in making accurate decisions. Their role is crucial in maintaining the integrity and safety of the sport.

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

Soccer referees often encounter challenges such as managing player dissent, making quick decisions under pressure, and maintaining control in heated situations. To address these, referees rely on strong communication skills, comprehensive knowledge of the rules, and the ability to remain calm and impartial. Regular training, mentorship from experienced officials, and self-review of match performances help referees continuously improve their decision-making and conflict resolution abilities.
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Soccer Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Soccer Referee job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 18% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $36,728 per year, or $17.7 per hour.
Youth Soccer Referee

Youth Soccer Referee

Gurnee Park District

Gurnee, IL • On-site

$21 - $31/hr

Part-time

Posted 23 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 offerings here.

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