High School Game Clock Operator 2026-2027

Compensation: Per-game stipend

Position Summary

The High School Sports Game Clock Operator is a dedicated game-official role responsible exclusively for the precise management of the official game clock during home athletic events. Operating under the direct jurisdiction of the game officials (referees/umpires), this role ensures that timing regulations are strictly followed across multiple sports. Because this position focuses solely on the main game clock—delegating scorekeeping and play clocks to other staff—the ideal candidate must possess flawless concentration and instant reaction times to ensure absolute accuracy.

Key Responsibilities

• Official Game Clock Management: Operate the timing console to start, stop, and adjust the main game countdown or count-up clock exactly as dictated by the game rules and official hand signals.

• Multi-Sport Timing Execution: Transition smoothly between the varying game clock regulations across different sports, including:

  • Football: Managing complex clock stoppages (out of bounds, incomplete passes, first downs) and halftime intervals.

  • Basketball: Managing precise timing adjustments, mandatory media or team timeouts, and quarter/half intermissions.

  • Soccer/Lacrosse: Managing continuous time, official injury stops, and official stadium countdowns.

• Official Collaboration: Coordinate closely with the on-field/on-court officiating crew before the game to review specific hand signals (starts, stops, clock corrections) and sport-specific timing protocols.

• Scorer’s Table Synergy: Maintain constant communication with the separate Scoreboard Operator (who handles points/fouls), the Shot/Play Clock Operator, and the PA Announcer to ensure game flow is seamless.

• Console Verification: Arrive early to test the timing system, verify the horn/buzzer functions properly, and ensure the console synchronizes perfectly with the physical stadium or gym clock.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Flawless Focus & Reflexes: Exceptional attention to detail and rapid hand-eye coordination to start and stop the clock instantly upon an official’s whistle or signal. A split-second delay can impact the outcome of a game.

• Rules Knowledge: Solid understanding of National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) timing rules and clock stoppage triggers for various sports.

• Absolute Neutrality: Must maintain strict professionalism and emotional neutrality. As a game official, the clock operator cannot cheer, complain, or react to gameplay while at the console.

• Composure: Ability to handle high-stakes, fast-paced environments and remain completely composed if an official or coach requests a clock correction.

• Requirements: Minimum age of 18 (for varsity contests) and must pass a standard school district background check.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Must be available for afternoon, evening, and weekend athletic schedules.

• Extended periods of sitting at a scorer's table (indoors) or in an elevated press box (outdoors), requiring sustained visual focus on the game officials.

Sand Springs Public Schools provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.