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Center Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Center Referee information

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$58

How much do center referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for center referee in the United States is $20.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are center referees?

Center referees are the main officials responsible for enforcing the rules and maintaining order during a soccer match. They oversee the game from the field's center, make crucial decisions such as awarding free kicks or penalties, and ensure fair play throughout the match. The center referee also works closely with assistant referees to monitor offside calls and other incidents. Their authority extends to starting and stopping play, issuing yellow or red cards, and making final decisions on all matters related to the game.

What qualifications do I need to be a referee?

To become a center referee, candidates typically need to be at least 18 years old, complete a certified referee training course, and pass an exam on rules and game management. Some positions may require a background check and ongoing certification renewal through local or national officiating organizations.

What are some common challenges faced by Center Referees during matches, and how can they effectively manage them?

Center Referees often encounter challenges such as maintaining control of the game, managing player disagreements, and making quick decisions under pressure. To handle these effectively, referees must stay calm, communicate clearly, and apply the rules consistently. Building strong rapport with assistant referees and players, as well as staying physically fit and alert, helps ensure fair and safe gameplay. Regular training and reviewing match footage can also enhance decision-making and confidence on the field.

What is the difference between Center Referee vs Assistant Referee?

AspectCenter RefereeAssistant Referee
CertificationsReferee certification, CPR, first aidReferee certification, CPR, first aid
Work EnvironmentOn-field, central position overseeing entire gameOn-field, sidelines assisting the center referee
Industry UsageOfficially controls game, makes major callsSupports main referee, focuses on sidelines and offsides

Both roles require similar certifications and work in the same environment, but the center referee is responsible for the overall game management, while the assistant referee supports with specific calls like offsides and fouls along the sidelines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Center Referee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Center Referee, you need a deep understanding of the rules of the sport, strong decision-making abilities, and typically must possess official certification from a recognized governing body. Familiarity with tools such as referee communication systems, match reporting software, and sometimes wearable technology is often required. Outstanding soft skills include assertiveness, impartiality, and effective communication to manage players, coaches, and game flow under pressure. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining fairness, ensuring player safety, and upholding the integrity of the competition.

How much money do refs get paid?

Center referees typically earn between $20 and $50 per game, depending on the league, level of play, and location. Some referees also receive additional compensation for training, certification, and travel expenses, especially in higher-level or professional leagues.

What is a center referee?

A center referee is the official responsible for overseeing a sports game, enforcing the rules, and making decisions on fouls, goals, and game flow. They typically position themselves at the center of the field or court and must have knowledge of the sport's regulations and good judgment. Certification and physical fitness are often required for this role.

What jobs pay 2000 a day?

Center referees in professional sports leagues, such as basketball or football, can earn around $2,000 or more per game, especially at the top levels. High-paying freelance or consulting roles in specialized fields like law, finance, or executive management can also reach this daily rate, often requiring significant experience, certifications, or a strong reputation.
More about Center Referee jobs
What job categories do people searching Center Referee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Center Referee jobs are:
Referee/Official Youth Sports, Roper YMCA Family Center

Referee/Official Youth Sports, Roper YMCA Family Center

YMCA of Central Florida

Winter Garden, FL

Other

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Description

Position Summary

The Referee/Official for Youth Sports will be responsible for the integral part of monitoring sports activity (including but not limited to refereeing for basketball, soccer and/or volleyball games), making sure all rules are followed and the game is played fairly.


Our Culture

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you. We are the Y.


Job Responsibilities

  • Enforce the rules of the game. Enforce program rules/policies by maintain constant surveillance of program participants
  • Arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your first game scheduled
  • Complete score sheets at score table. Write in final score, circle winning team, initial games officiated
  • Facilitate/lead youth sports pledge before game
  • Ensure games starts on time
  • Take charge. Do not be afraid to blow the whistle
  • Ensure safety of participants/members
  • Actively engage with coaches. Always explain to the coaches how the game will be called. Explain your calls to players and coaches
  • Ensure goal heights are adjusted according to age division and proper size ball is used
  • Assist supervisor with set up/clean up as needed
  • Maintain control of game. Keep composure under pressure. Help keep a positive environment
  • Builds effective, authentic relationships with participants and parents, helping them connect with each other and the YMCA. Models welcoming, connecting, motivating and affirming behaviors.
  • Completes mandatory staff training and participates in required staff meetings.
  • Participates in special events as assigned.
  • Ensures completion of daily equipment checks and completes daily cleaning tasks.
  • Actively promotes all YMCA programs and activities and supports YMCA campaign initiatives.
  • Follows YMCA policies, procedures, and emergency procedures and able to demonstrate them.


Requirements

  • Minimum of 16 years of age with appropriate work permits; 18 years of age & high school degree preferred.
  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, and problem solving skills with the ability to communicate effectively with both participants and parents.
  • Knowledge of youth developmental stages, with ability to apply corresponding learning and physical traits to curriculum development and classroom management.
  • Within 60 days of hire, CPR/AED & First Aid certification

Work Environment & Physical Demands

  • Must be willing to work a flexible schedule, which may include weekends and holidays as needed.
  • Must be willing to work an on-call schedule rotation as required.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.
  • The physical activities of this position include: stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, pulling, lifting, grasping, feeling, and repetitive motions. Talking is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word. Hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels, with or without correction.
  • The employee must be able to perform medium work: exerting up to 50 to 100 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently, and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.
  • The employee is required to have close visual acuity, along with the visual acuity to determine the accuracy, neatness, and thoroughness of the work assigned or to make general observations of facilities or structures. The employee is required to have visual acuity to operate motor vehicles.
  • The employee is subject to both environmental conditions: activities occur inside and outside. The employee is subject to extreme heat: temperatures above 100 degrees for periods of more than one hour.
  • May be required to sit or stand for extended periods of time while demonstrating manual dexterity in order to accurately work on the phone, computer keyboard, and other equipment.

Disclaimers

  • Must complete a successful employment verification and background screening, which includes a DCF Level 2 Background Check (Additional information on Level 2 Background through Clearinghouse can be found here: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/)
  • All of the above duties and responsibilities are essential job functions subject to reasonable accommodation. The YMCA promotes an equal employment opportunity work place which includes reasonable accommodation of otherwise qualified disabled applicants and employees. Please see your manager should you have any questions about this policy or these job duties.
  • This job description may not be all-inclusive and employees are expected to perform all other duties as assigned and directed by management. Job descriptions and duties may be modified when deemed appropriate by management.