Sports Official

Salary: See Position Description
Location : 615 Patrick Henry Drive, Blacksburg, VA
Job Type: Part Time
Job Number: Sports Official 091126 PT
Department: Recreation
Division: Recreation - Athletics
Opening Date: 08/13/2026
Closing Date: 9/11/2026 5:00 PM Eastern


General Definition of Work
Officiate at recreational athletic or sporting events. Detect infractions of rules and decide penalties according to established regulations.


Pay will depend on sport that is being officiated per the following:

• Youth Baseball Official - $50/game
• Adult Softball Official - $30/game
• Head Football Referee - $50/game
• Football Referee - $45/game
• Basketball Official - $40/game
• Volleyball Official - $25/game

Shifts: Nights and Weekends, 3-10 hours/week
The Town of Blacksburg is an EEO Employer M/F/D/V

Essential Functions


To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable an individual with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Officiate at sporting events, games, or competitions, to maintain standards of play and to ensure that game rules are observed
• Signal participants or other officials to make them aware of infractions or to otherwise regulate play or competition
• Inspect sporting equipment and/or examine participants in order to ensure compliance with event and safety regulations
• Keep track of event times, including game times and elapsed time during game segments, starting or stopping play when necessary
• Start games and competitions
• Resolve claims of rule infractions or complaints by participants and assess any necessary penalties, according to 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 in order to provide information, coordinate activities, and discuss problems
• Teach and explain the rules and regulations governing a specific sport

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Communication skills Umpires, referees, and other sports officials must have good communication skills because they inform athletes on the rules of the game, discuss infractions, and settle disputes.

Decision making skills Umpires, referees, and other sports officials must observe play, assess various situations, and often make split-second decisions.

Good vision Umpires, referees, and other sports officials must have good vision to view infractions and identify any violations during play. In some sports, officials must also be able to observe an athlete's form for imperfections.

Physical stamina Many umpires, referees, and other sports officials are required to stand, walk, run, or squat for long periods during games and events.

Teamwork Because many umpires, referees, and other sports officials work in groups to officiate a game, the ability to cooperate and come to a mutual decision is essential.


Education and Experience
High school diploma or GED and moderate knowledge of officiating sport(s)
Special Requirements Valid driver's license with a satisfactory driving record

Physical Requirements

Physical Requirements
Good vision, stamina and the ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
No benefits are available for this position.