Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Officiate at competitive athletic or sporting events. Detect infractions of rules and decide penalties according to established regulations. Includes all sporting officials, referees, and competition judges.
Median pay: $40,710/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: +5.7% projected growth, 2024–2034 — faster than average.
About 4,600 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Officiate at sporting events, games, or competitions, to maintain standards of play and to ensure that game rules are observed.
• Inspect game sites for compliance with regulations or safety requirements.
• Resolve claims of rule infractions or complaints by participants and assess any necessary penalties, according to regulations.
• Signal participants or other officials to make them aware of infractions or to otherwise regulate play or competition.
• Teach and explain the rules and regulations governing a specific sport.
• Inspect sporting equipment or examine participants to ensure compliance with event and safety regulations.
• Report to regulating organizations regarding sporting activities, complaints made, and actions taken or needed, such as fines or other disciplinary actions.
• Confer with other sporting officials, coaches, players, and facility managers to provide information, coordinate activities, and discuss problems.
What's the median pay for Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials?
The median pay for Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials is $40,710 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials?
Employment for Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials is projected to change +5.7% from 2024 to 2034 - faster than average.
What education is typically required for Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials?
Typical entry-level education: High school diploma or equivalent.
How many job openings are there each year for Umpires, Referees, and Other Sports Officials?
About 4,600 openings per year, on average, over the decade.