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Sports Referee Jobs in Kansas (NOW HIRING)

Applicants must be a minimum of 16 years of age and possess a background and experience in the sport of soccer, along with the ability to work effectively with children. The league sessions will ...

Applicants must be a minimum of 16 years of age and possess a background and experience in the sport of soccer, along with the ability to work effectively with children. The league sessions will ...

Showing results 21-28

Sports Referee information

See Kansas salary details

$5

$18

$52

How much do sports referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for sports referee in Kansas is $18.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.72 and $19.71 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sports referee?

Sports referees are officials responsible for enforcing the rules and maintaining order during athletic competitions. They make decisions on plays, ensure fair play, and address any violations of the game's regulations. Referees may work in a variety of sports, such as soccer, basketball, or football, and often use signals, whistles, or flags to communicate their decisions. Their role is crucial for ensuring that games are played safely, fairly, and according to the established rules.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sports referee?

To thrive as a Sports Referee, you need a thorough understanding of game rules, strong decision-making abilities, and, typically, official certification from a recognized sports body. Familiarity with timing devices, scorekeeping systems, and video review technology is often required, depending on the sport. Excellent communication, impartiality, and conflict resolution skills help referees maintain authority and manage interactions with players, coaches, and spectators. These competencies are vital to ensure fair play, uphold the integrity of the game, and manage high-pressure situations effectively.

What are some of the main challenges sports referees face during a game, and how can they effectively handle them?

Sports referees often encounter challenges such as making split-second decisions under pressure, handling disputes or disagreements from players and coaches, and maintaining impartiality throughout the game. To effectively handle these challenges, referees rely on thorough knowledge of the rules, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain calm and assertive in high-stress situations. Continuous training, experience, and feedback from peers or mentors also play a crucial role in helping referees refine their judgment and conflict resolution techniques.

How do I become a professional sports referee?

To become a professional sports referee, you typically need to complete relevant training and certification programs offered by sports governing bodies, gain experience officiating at lower levels, and pass practical exams. Maintaining good physical fitness and understanding the rules of the sport are essential for advancing to higher levels of officiating.

How much money do sports referees make?

Sports referees' earnings vary based on the level of competition, sport, and location. For example, high school referees typically earn $20 to $100 per game, while professional referees can make several thousand dollars per game or season, often supplemented by certifications and experience.

What are the most commonly searched types of Sports Referee jobs in Kansas?

The most popular types of Sports Referee jobs in Kansas are:

What are popular job titles related to Sports Referee jobs in Kansas?

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

Infographic showing various Sports Referee job openings in Kansas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 67% Full Time, 30% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $38,830 per year, or $18.7 per hour.

Youth Official I Volleyball - Seasonal

City of Manhattan Kansas

Manhattan, KS • On-site

$17.50/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

(Seasonal, Non-Exempt)
Starting Wage: $17.50/hour
Closing Date: 11/02/2026
Shift/Workdays and Hours: Weeknights and Weekends (Variable)
Must be 16 years or older; Uniforms provided
How to Apply: Using the "apply" button on this page, please complete the required online application. For general questions about the position, contact Parks and Recreation at 785-587-2757.
Job Summary
MPRD sports officials will officiate youth athletic events, and tournaments to maintain standards of play. Sports officiated include but are not limited to: Youth Baseball, Youth Softball, Youth Flag Football, Youth Volleyball, and Youth Basketball. All competitions will be facilitated through the Manhattan Parks and Recreation Department.
Job Duties
  • Officiate sports assigned.
  • Attend sport-specific training and meetings.
  • Make calls and instruct players on the rules of the game.
  • Provide communication to and from coaches and participants ? Maintain a safe and positive playing environment.
  • Concentrate and clearly communicate in situations with multiple distractions
  • Inspect sporting equipment and/or examine participants to ensure compliance with event and safety regulations.
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, department personnel and the public, and deal with them in a courteous and tactful manner.
  • Required weeknight and weekend availability.

Requirements
Required Knowledge & Skills
  • Work in a team environment and get along with coworkers and other MPRD staff members.
  • Strong knowledge of, or ability to learn, sport rules and regulations.
  • Possess characteristics of a strong work ethic, reliability, and attention to detail.

Preferred Knowledge & Skills
  • Previous related sport experience.

Physical Demands / Work Environment
  • Work facilities include: Anthony and Eisenhower Recreation Center, Peace Memorial Auditorium, Douglass Activity Center, City Park, Anneberg Park, CiCo Park, and Eisenhower Baseball Complex.
  • Noise level and activity level will be varied. You may be exposed to loud noises such as whistles, horns, buzzers, cheering, and/or yelling.
  • Stands, walks, jogs, runs, sits, uses hands, handles, feels, speaks, hears, climbs stairs, pushes, pulls, or lifts up to 50 pounds.

Other Information
  • Applicants must pass a background check.
  • Games typically played Monday-Thursday evenings ? Staff may be asked to work weekends and holidays.

The City of Manhattan is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value diversity and believe the best workplaces bring together employees with diverse skill sets, backgrounds, experiences, and viewpoints to achieve common goals. Applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran or disability status, or any basis protected by law.