Job Description

Job Location Leonhard Recreation Center - Champaign, IL 61821 Position Type Seasonal Salary Range $35.00 - $55.00 Hourly

Sports Official

Champaign Park District – Part-Time 2, Non-Exempt (not to exceed 19 hours per week on average; per-game basis)

About the Job

As a Sports Official with the Champaign Park District, you’ll play a key role in creating a fun, fair, and safe environment for youth and adult league participants. This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy sports, thrive in fast-paced settings, and take pride in promoting good sportsmanship while enforcing game rules with professionalism and confidence.

of Responsibilities

• Officiate youth and/or adult league games and tournaments according to league rules and Park District policies
• Ensure fair play, participant safety, and positive sportsmanship during all games
• Make quick, impartial decisions and clearly communicate calls to players and coaches
• Maintain control of games and resolve conflicts effectively
• Model professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality in all interactions
• Mentor and support less experienced officials as needed
• Attend required meetings, trainings, and workshops
• Uphold Park District safety policies, equal opportunity, and harassment policies
• Work evenings and weekends as scheduled
• Adapt to officiating new sports or recreation activities as needed
• Perform other related duties as assigned

Why Work With Us?

• Gain hands-on experience in sports officiating and recreation leadership
• Build communication, decision-making, and conflict-resolution skills
• Receive Park District–provided training and certifications
• Work in a supportive team environment that values professionalism and respect
• Make a positive impact on the community through youth and adult recreation

Benefits

Summary

• Paid training and certifications (First Aid, CPR/AED, concussion awareness, and more)
• Flexible, per-game scheduling
• Valuable work experience in parks and recreation
• Supportive supervision and ongoing development opportunities

About the Champaign Park District

The Champaign Park District is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in our community by providing safe, inclusive, and engaging parks, programs, and facilities. Our team is committed to fostering respect, teamwork, and positive experiences for residents and visitors of all ages.

Who This Position Is Ideal For

This role is perfect for individuals ages 13 and up who love sports, enjoy working with people, and can stay calm under pressure. If you’re looking to build leadership skills, gain officiating experience, and be part of a community-focused organization, this is a great opportunity to get involved.

The Champaign Park District is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or veteran status. We are committed to providing a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employees are required to comply with our equal opportunity and harassment laws, policies, and procedures.

Qualifications

• Must be at least thirteen (13) years old; candidates under sixteen (16) must have a valid work permit.
• Knowledge of rules for applicable sport(s)
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with staff, participants, and spectators.