Job Description

Sports Officials

The City of Gunnison Parks & Recreation Department is seeking enthusiastic and dependable Sports Officials to support our youth and adult recreation programs. Sports Officials play a vital role in creating a safe, fair, and positive environment by officiating games, enforcing rules, and promoting good sportsmanship. This position offers a great opportunity to stay active, build leadership and communication skills, and be part of a team that supports community recreation and youth development.

This is a temporary, part-time position with flexible scheduling that typically includes evenings and weekends, depending on the sport and season. Officials may work baseball/softball, soccer, basketball, football, or other recreational sports. Ideal candidates enjoy working with people, can make quick decisions under pressure, and are committed to fostering a fun and inclusive experience for players and spectators alike. Training is provided, and prior officiating or playing experience is a plus.

General Purpose: Sports Officials support the Parks & Recreation Department by ensuring that youth and adult athletic programs are conducted in a safe, fair, and sportsmanlike environment. Officials enforce the rules of the sport, manage game flow, and promote positive experiences for participants, coaches, and spectators. This position may include officiating baseball/softball, football, soccer, basketball, or other recreational sports as assigned.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Officiate games in accordance with the rules, policies, and standards established by the Parks & Recreation Department and the governing sport.
• Maintain control of the game by managing play, enforcing rules, and making timely, accurate decisions.
• Ensure proper field/court setup, equipment safety, and readiness prior to each game.
• Start and end games on schedule, keeping play organized and efficient.
• Monitor player safety and stop play when necessary to address injuries or unsafe conditions.
• Promote and model good sportsmanship for players, coaches, and spectators.
• Address unsportsmanlike behavior calmly and professionally, following department protocols for warnings, penalties, or ejections.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with coaches, players, scorekeepers, and spectators.
• Explain rulings when appropriate and maintain a professional demeanor in all interactions.
• Report any incidents, injuries, or rule violations to the site supervisor or program coordinator.
• Attend required trainings, meetings, and certification sessions as scheduled.
• Arrive on time, in proper uniform, and prepared with necessary equipment.
• Complete post-game reports or documentation when required.
• Maintain knowledge of current rules, updates, and department policies.

Other Duties and Responsibilities: Good interpersonal skills are necessary to communicate with players, other officials, and the public. Perform duties as assigned by supervisor.

Job Qualifications:

• Required Education and Experience: Ages 15 and older with previous experience participating in and/or officiating the sport.
• Other Necessary Requirements: Basic knowledge of the rules and mechanics of the sport(s) assigned. Ability to make quick, confident decisions under pressure. Strong communication and conflict-resolution skills. Ability to work outdoors or indoors depending on sport and season. Must pass background checks required by the Parks & Recreation Department.
• Preferred: Prior officiating experience in recreational, school, or league settings. Certifications from recognized officiating organizations (e.g., NFHS, ASA/USA Softball, NFHS Football, etc.). Experience working with youth programs.
• Necessary Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Represent the Parks & Recreation Department with professionalism and integrity. Foster a positive, inclusive, and enjoyable environment for all participants. Demonstrate fairness, impartiality, and consistency in all officiating duties.
• Working Conditions:
• Work Environment: Part-time, seasonal, or event-based schedule depending on sport. Evening and weekend availability often required. Work performed on athletic fields, courts, or recreation facilities.
• Physical Activities: Ability to stand, run, and move continuously for the duration of assigned games. Ability to lift and carry equipment up to a moderate weight. Ability to work in varying weather conditions for outdoor sports.
• Tools and Equipment Used: All necessary equipment will be provided by Parks & Recreation.
• Supervision Received: Works under the general supervision of the Recreation Coordinator and/or Recreation Supervisor.

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