With the 2026 FIFA World Cup coming to the United States, interest in US soccer jobs is soaring. Stadiums are filling, youth soccer programs are expanding, and more organizations are hiring. Whether you dream of leading training sessions on the field or supporting a soccer federation office, real opportunities are opening across the country. This guide breaks down the most common US soccer jobs, the salaries you can expect, the skills you should build, and the steps you need to take so you can move from fan to professional.
Types of US Soccer Jobs
Across the nation, clubs, schools, state associations, and the U.S. Soccer Federation all recruit individuals with diverse talents and abilities. Each role below explains what the job involves, average pay, and the education or experience that helps you stand out.
Coaching Jobs at Clubs, Schools, and Academies
Coaches shape players at every level, from early grassroots courses to elite pro academies. A youth coach at a neighborhood club might run weekday evening practices and weekend matches for children who simply love the game.
Salary
Entry pay usually ranges from $25,000 to $45,000 per year. College or academy coaches guide older athletes through more challenging competition, scout opponents, and create video analysis plans; these positions often offer salaries ranging from $50,000 to $80,000. Directors of coaching or technical directors who oversee an entire program can earn over $90,000.
Experience & Qualifications
Employers nearly always ask for a U.S. Soccer coaching license. Most people begin with an introduction to grassroots coaching through the Learning Center, then advance along the coaching license pathway from Grassroots to D and beyond. Degrees in physical education, kinesiology, or sports science are helpful.
Strong leadership, clear communication, and solid tactical knowledge remain essential because parents and players trust coaches to plan safe and productive training sessions.
US Soccer Federation Jobs
Headquartered in Chicago, the national soccer federation hires staff in administration, event planning, high-performance science, marketing, communications, finance, legal, and coaching education. Workers here manage nationwide tournaments, publish coaching education materials, oversee compliance with league rules, and support the men’s and women’s national teams.
Salary
Competitive pay usually starts around $30,000 and can reach $50,000 for managers and department directors. A bachelor’s degree in business, law, sports management, or a related field is the normal baseline.
Experience & Qualifications
Attention to detail, strong writing skills, and the ability to coordinate with state associations are prized traits.
Anyone interested in U.S. Soccer Federation jobs should monitor the official careers page and prepare a résumé that highlights both soccer experience and general business success.
US Youth Soccer Jobs
The largest youth organization in the country operates programs in every state, resulting in steady demand for coaches, tournament staff, outreach coordinators, and referee administrators. Individuals who enjoy mentoring young players, fostering positive environments, and explaining basic techniques thrive in these US Youth Soccer roles.
Salary
Typical pay ranges from $35,000 to $60,000 for roles such as program coordinators, event planners, and education staff. Senior state-level positions, such as technical directors or executive administrators, may earn over $75,000, and in some larger markets, six-figure salaries are attainable. Compensation often reflects both the scale of the local program and the availability of state or regional funding. Additional benefits may include travel reimbursements, health insurance, and professional development stipends.
Experience & Qualifications
Employers value backgrounds in education, child development, and sports administration. For coaching roles, a minimum of a Grassroots or D license, plus CPR, First Aid, and SafeSport certification, is almost mandatory because staff members interact with minors daily.
Operations and Event Management Roles
Every match relies on professionals who schedule fields, arrange travel, set up broadcast equipment, and welcome fans. Facility supervisors, travel coordinators, and tournament directors ensure that the lights turn on, referees arrive, and the scoreboard functions properly.
Salary
Pay typically ranges between $40,000 and $70,000, depending on the size and complexity of the events, as well as the level of responsibility. Those managing regional tournaments, multiple venues, or large-scale operations often earn salaries above $70,000. Some roles include seasonal bonuses, travel allowances, or overtime pay, which are often tied to frequent event schedules.
Experience & Qualifications
A degree in event management or sports administration is helpful, but hands-on experience running local tournaments can be just as valuable. Successful candidates demonstrate calm decision-making under pressure, excellent time management, and a proven track record of completing large projects on deadline.
Media, Marketing, and Digital Content Jobs
Clubs and federations share highlights, ticket deals, and community stories through social media, podcasts, and video channels.
Salary
Mid-level roles such as digital marketing specialists or communications managers generally range between $50,000 and $65,000. Senior content strategists, digital directors, and brand leads may earn between $70,000 and $90,000, especially at the national or league level. Remote work flexibility and freelance contracts are standard in this space and may affect overall compensation structures.
Experience & Qualifications
Employers look for degrees in marketing, journalism, or digital media, as well as practical skills such as writing match reports, filming interviews, editing graphics, and understanding what engages soccer fans online. Because many of these positions can be performed remotely, they offer a path to remote jobs with soccer organizations.
What Affects Pay in US Soccer Jobs
Salary swings depend on job type, location, experience, and certification level. A newly licensed grassroots coach in a small town will earn less than a seasoned academy coach in a major city, where the cost of living and job demands are higher. In larger metropolitan areas or for roles tied to national events, compensation tends to rise.
Administrative and federation staff often earn more because they oversee larger budgets, manage staff, and ensure that complex programs run smoothly.
In some cases, perks such as travel stipends, health benefits, and performance bonuses can significantly raise the overall compensation package. Bonuses also play a part, particularly when tournament revenue or team performance exceeds targets.
Earning a US Soccer Coaching License
For coaching roles, the first significant milestone is earning a license. The coaching license pathway is designed so that each level builds upon the one before it, providing coaches with a clear progression of skills and knowledge. Completing each level not only improves your skills and knowledge but also qualifies you for more competitive positions across clubs and academies.
In many cases, having the proper license is the difference between volunteering and securing a paid role.
Understanding License Levels
The entry point is usually a Grassroots license, ideal for parents and volunteers working with younger players. This level covers basic coaching principles, age-appropriate methods, and player safety. Following that is the D license, which enhances tactical understanding, match analysis, and session planning.
Coaches who want to lead high-level youth or college teams progress to the C, B, and A licenses,each focusing on team management, game models, and long-term development. At the top is the Pro license, required for coaching at professional clubs and national teams.
Here’s a quick breakdown of each level:
- Grassroots License – Covers foundational coaching techniques and age-appropriate activities. Prepares coaches to lead youth teams in recreational and entry-level competitive settings.
- D License – Introduces deeper tactical awareness, session design, and coaching methodology for players aged 12 and up.
- C License – Focuses on team organization, game model development, and the physical, mental, and tactical growth of players in more structured competitive environments.
- B License – Prepares coaches to manage competitive youth or adult amateur teams, with emphasis on long-term development and team performance.
- A License – Intended for advanced coaches working in elite youth academies, college teams, or semi-professional clubs.
- Pro License – Required to lead professional teams in sanctioned U.S. leagues. This license includes advanced game analysis, leadership, and organizational strategy.
How to Enroll and Start the Process
All licenses are managed through the US Soccer learning center, a web platform that lists upcoming courses across the United States. You create a free profile, choose the level that fits your background, and register for in‑person and online modules. The site tracks your progress, stores certificates, and connects you with peers.
Cost, Time Commitment, and Renewal
Grassroots courses often cost less than $300 and can be completed over a weekend, whereas upper-level licenses can exceed $1,000 and involve multi-week fieldwork, as well as online study. Most licenses must be renewed every few years through additional coaching education hours, which keeps knowledge fresh and aligns with modern best practices.
Additional Certifications Coaches May Need
Many employers, especially schools and youth clubs, also require certifications in CPR, First Aid, SafeSport, and strength and conditioning. These certificates reassure parents, meet insurance requirements, and improve overall safety during training sessions.
How the US Soccer Learning Center Supports Career Growth
The US Soccer Learning Center is more than just a registration portal. It serves as a personal hub where you can review upcoming coaching education workshops, submit match analysis assignments, and join discussion forums. It consolidates everything into one place, allowing coaches to stay organized as they progress through the various license levels. Whether you’re taking your first course or working toward renewal, the Learning Center helps keep your progress on track.
Key Features and User Experience
The dashboard shows completed licenses, pending coursework, and suggested next steps. Built-in messaging lets you ask instructors questions and download lesson plans for future training sessions. You can also set reminders for application deadlines or workshops and store important documents such as SafeSport certification and CPR records.
The system is designed to be user-friendly, even for people new to coaching.
Continuing Education and Networking
Regular webinars, regional conventions, and peer forums provide coaches with opportunities to exchange ideas and foster professional relationships. The platform also recommends continuing education sessions based on your license level or job goals.
Because the Learning Center maintains a digital record of every class you complete, employers can quickly verify your coaching history, which speeds up the hiring process. For coaches seeking long-term growth, this built-in network and education system provides a significant advantage.
How to Find and Land US Soccer Jobs
Breaking into the industry is easier when you follow a precise sequence. Whether you’re starting with limited experience or shifting from another profession, the steps below help you build momentum and credibility.
Step 1 – Gain Experience Through Volunteering or Internships
Offer to help with local youth soccer camps, high‑school teams, or small tournaments. Practical experience builds confidence and contacts. It also provides a clearer understanding of which roles align with your interests and skills. Many organizations hire from their pool of volunteers when paid roles become available.
Step 2 – Begin Licensing Through the Learning Center
Start your certification early. Even the introductory grassroots courses show future employers that you are serious and understand safety guidelines. Starting the license process also provides access to Learning Center resources and coaching communities, which can lead to job referrals and opportunities.
Step 3 – Join Professional Networks and Connect with Mentors
Attend state association meetings, follow coaching podcasts, and connect with experienced coaches on LinkedIn. Mentors often point you toward open positions before they are advertised. You can also join local or regional coaching associations that host clinics and share job leads.
Step 4 – Apply Strategically Through Trusted Job Boards
Focus on reputable sites such as JobsInSports and the official federation career portal. Tailor each application to highlight the exact skills listed in the job post. Always include coaching licenses, certificates, and real-world experience—even from volunteer work—as these demonstrate your expertise and help you stand out from other candidates.
Let JobsInSports Help You Find the Best US Soccer Jobs
JobsInSports.com lists fresh openings every week, covering youth soccer clubs, collegiate athletics, state associations, and national programs. The platform also offers résumé reviews, interview tips, and email alerts so you never miss new US soccer jobs.
Whether you want full‑time US Soccer Federation jobs or part‑time roles coaching eight‑year‑olds on Saturday mornings, JobsInSports connects you with the right employer. Start searching today, build your profile, and turn your passion into a profession.
