Umpire/Sports Official

GENERAL PURPOSE:

The Umpire/Sports Official is responsible for enforcing rules and maintaining fair play during athletic games and leagues organized by the Parks and Recreation Department. This role ensures a safe, respectful, and enjoyable environment for participants, coaches, and spectators. This position plays a critical role in fostering a positive recreational sports experience by promoting fairness, teamwork, and respect within the community.

PRIMARY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The following duties are not intended to serve as a comprehensive list of all duties performed by the individual in this classification, only a representative summary of the primary duties and responsibilities.  Incumbent(s) may not be required to perform all duties listed and may be required to perform additional, position-specific duties as assigned.

• Officiate assigned games (e.g., baseball, softball, basketball, soccer, or other recreational sports) in accordance with established rules and league guidelines
• Interpret and enforce rules consistently and fairly
• Maintain control of games to ensure safety and sportsmanship
• Inspect fields, courts, and equipment prior to games to ensure proper setup and safety compliance
• Start and end games on schedule and manage game flow
• Resolve disputes and handle conflicts calmly and professionally
• Communicate clearly with players, coaches, and league staff
• Report game results, incidents, injuries, or unusual situations to supervisors
• Ensure participants adhere to department policies, including conduct and safety rules
• Assist with setup and breakdown of equipment when needed

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Required knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• Strong knowledge of the rules and regulations of assigned sports
• Ability to make quick, accurate decisions under pressure
• Excellent verbal communication and conflict-resolution skills
• Ability to remain impartial, composed, and professional at all times
• Strong observational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work effectively with participants of all ages and skill levels

Education and Experience:

• Must be at least 14 years old
• Prior officiating experience preferred but not required
• Knowledge of applicable sports rules
• Ability to attend training and rules clinics as required
• Sports officiating certification (preferred)
• CPR/AED and First Aid certification (preferred)

Physical Requirements:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Ability to stand, walk, jog, or run for extended periods
• Ability to see and hear clearly to monitor gameplay
• Ability to lift and move equipment up to 25 pounds

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Work is performed outdoors and/or in gymnasium settings
• Evening and weekend hours are required
• Prolonged standing, walking, and physical movement
• Exposure to varying weather conditions (for outdoor sports)