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Court Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... on-court situations. Experience in maintaining impartiality and making quick, accurate decisions ... Referees are responsible for understanding and enforcing rules and safety guidelines in a friendly ...

REFEREE

Poulsbo, WA · On-site

$20 - $32/hr

Knowledge of game mechanics such as positioning, signaling, and court/field coverage ... There are four (4) levels for Referees (Referee in Training, Referee, Lead Referee, Solo Referee ...

The Commission may also designate a referee to be present at the testimony given by a prosecutor ... court rules. Under the statute, the Commission is authorized to conduct a full range of ...

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Court Referee information

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How much do court referee jobs pay per hour?

As of May 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for court 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 the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Court Referee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Court Referee, you need a comprehensive understanding of law and court procedures, typically achieved through a law degree and bar admission. Familiarity with legal research databases, case management systems, and courtroom technology is often required. Strong analytical thinking, impartiality, and effective communication are vital soft skills for making fair decisions and articulating reasoning. These competencies are essential to ensure justice, maintain order, and support the efficient functioning of the legal system.

What are some typical challenges faced by a Court Referee in managing caseloads and ensuring timely decisions?

A Court Referee often manages a high volume of cases, which can make it challenging to review all materials thoroughly and issue timely recommendations. Balancing efficiency with fairness is crucial, as decisions must be well-considered and legally sound. Additionally, Court Referees must navigate interactions with attorneys, litigants, and sometimes unrepresented parties, requiring strong communication and conflict resolution skills. Staying current with legal precedents and procedural changes is also essential for consistent and accurate rulings.

What are Court Referees?

Court Referees are judicial officers who assist judges by handling specific legal matters, such as gathering evidence, conducting hearings, and making recommendations or decisions in certain cases. They often preside over preliminary hearings, family law matters, or small claims cases. While their authority varies by jurisdiction, their work helps streamline court processes and reduce judges’ workloads. In some courts, their decisions can be reviewed or approved by a judge.

What is the difference between Court Referee vs Court Commissioner?

AspectCourt RefereeCourt Commissioner
CredentialsLegal background, often with law degree or legal experienceLegal background, often with law degree or legal experience
Work EnvironmentAssists judges in court proceedings, often in civil or family casesPerforms judicial functions, including hearings and rulings, under judge supervision
Employer & IndustryCourts, government agenciesCourts, government agencies
Common UsageAssisting in court cases, mediations, and hearingsHandling specific judicial duties, such as issuing rulings or conducting hearings

Both Court Referees and Court Commissioners have legal backgrounds and work within the judicial system, assisting judges with court proceedings. While their roles overlap in supporting judicial functions, Court Referees often focus on mediations and civil cases, whereas Court Commissioners may handle a broader range of judicial duties, including hearings and rulings under judge supervision.

More about Court Referee jobs
What cities are hiring for Court Referee jobs? Cities with the most Court Referee job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Court Referee jobs? The top employers for Court Referee jobs are:
What states have the most Court Referee jobs? States with the most job openings for Court Referee jobs include:
Infographic showing various Court Referee job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,539 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Referee: Stratford Richardson YMCA

Referee: Stratford Richardson YMCA

Career Search

Charlotte, NC

Other

Posted 28 days ago


Job description

The Referee supports YMCA sports programs by officiating games, ensuring a positive and inclusiveenvironment, and promoting the values of sportsmanship and fair play. This entry-level position isresponsible for enforcing game rules, maintaining game flow, and serving as a role model to participants.Referees are essential in fostering a safe and enjoyable sports experience for youth and adults.

Culture Statement

The culture of the Y is rooted in our Christian mission and core principles. We strive every day tocollectively embody our purpose to love, serve and transform lives. Every day we show up to Lead withLove and Serve with Purpose.

WeLove unconditionally - showing genuine care and concern for everyone, making each interactionmeaningful and personal and ensuring every person feels valued, seen and welcomed. We elevateHope - promoting optimism by offering encouragement and practical solutions to challenges. We act with Care & Compassion - listening attentively without judgment, responding with empathy, and creating a senseof belonging by uplifting and supporting those around us. We demonstrate Generosity - sharing our time, skills, and resources freely and with joy.

We walk in Grace - showing patience and kindness, even in difficult moments. We ignite Faith - stayinggrounded in our mission, principles and purpose, inspiring others to trust in what is possible. Demonstrating consistency in our actions, helping others see how their efforts align with a greaterpurpose. We treasure Honesty - communicating openly and truthfully, admitting mistakes when theyoccur, and honoring commitments. We honor Humility - leading with a servant's heart by prioritizing theneeds of others above our own.


We live with Joy - celebrating small and big wins alike, inspiring connection and shared joy. We offer Respect - addressing everyone by name and honoring diverse perspectives and backgrounds. Wevalue Responsibility - performing every task timely with diligence and excellence and holding ourselvesaccountable by openly evaluating our performance. We engage in Service - going above and beyond in serving others by anticipating needs and delivering exceptional experiences.

Essential Functions

  • Officiate youth and/or adult sports games in accordance with YMCA and sport-specific rules and guidelines.
  • Promote and model the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility in all interactions.
  • Arrive prepared and on time for scheduled games, maintaining appropriate attire and equipment.
  • Maintain control of the game by managing participants, coaches, and spectators professionally.
  • Ensure safety by monitoring player behavior and game conditions and responding appropriately to injuries or conflicts.
  • Communicate clearly and consistently with players, coaches, and other referees to explain rules and decisions.
  • Assist in the setup and breakdown of game equipment and field or court layout as needed.
  • Document and report game results, rule infractions, injuries, or incidents according to YMCA protocols.
  • Provide encouragement and guidance to players to support skill development and confidence.
  • Participate in referee trainings, meetings, and ongoing development opportunities as required.

Performs other duties and tasks as assigned by leadership

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

  • Minimum age 16
  • Strong knowledge of at least one organized sport (e.g., basketball, soccer, flag football, volleyball)
  • Ability to remain fair, calm, and composed in high-energy or emotionally charged environments
  • Reliable, punctual, and able to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends
  • Strong verbal communication and interpersonal skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team

All YMCA team members are expected to maintain a current and active status for all safety, risk, and programming certifications defined by the YMCA of Greater Charlotte.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous experience as a referee, coach, or player (preferred but not required)

Working Conditions

  • Primarily indoor/outdoor gymnasium or field environment.
  • May involve standing for extended periods, running short distances, and occasional lifting (up to 25 lbs.)
  • Exposure to loud noise levels and varying weather conditions (for outdoor sports)
  • Requires evening and weekend availability during sports seasons

Competencies

  1. CRITICAL THINKING & DECISION MAKING: Makes informed decisions based on logic, data, andsound judgment
  2. ENGAGING COMMUNITY: Builds bridges with others in the community to ensure the Y's work iscommunity-focused and welcoming of all, providing community benefit
  3. EMOTIONAL MATURITY: Demonstrates ability to understand and manage emotions effectively inall situations
  4. DEVELOPING SELF & OTHERS: Develops self and supports others (e.g., staff, volunteers,members, program participants), both formally and informally, to achieve their highest potential

To learn more about our Y-USA Leadership Competencies, please click here