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Head Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Wheaton Academy

Assistant Track Coach

West Chicago, IL · On-site

Display God-honoring communication with other coaches, parents, athletes, and referees. * Maintain regular communication with the Head Coach and athletic department staff. * Demonstrate Christ-like ...

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How much do head referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for head 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 Head Referees?

Head Referees are the lead officials responsible for overseeing the conduct of a sporting event, ensuring that all rules and regulations are followed. They have the authority to make final decisions on disputes, supervise other referees or officials, and manage any disciplinary actions during the game. Their role is crucial in maintaining fairness and integrity throughout the competition, and they often serve as the main point of contact between coaches, players, and officiating staff.

What NFL referee got fined $500,000?

Referee Tony Corrente was fined $500,000 by the NFL in 2012 for violating league policies. NFL officials are subject to disciplinary actions for misconduct or rule violations, and such fines are part of league enforcement measures.

How does a Head Referee typically manage communication and decision-making during high-pressure matches?

As a Head Referee, effective communication is crucial, especially during fast-paced or high-stakes games. You'll coordinate closely with assistant referees and officials through radios or hand signals, ensuring that everyone is aligned on rules enforcement and player safety. Decision-making often requires quick judgment calls, sometimes under intense scrutiny from teams and spectators. Regular debriefings and clear protocols help maintain consistency and fairness throughout the match. Building trust with your officiating team and maintaining composure are key to successfully navigating challenging situations.

How much does a top level referee get paid?

Top-level referees, such as those officiating professional sports or major leagues, can earn from $50,000 to over $200,000 annually depending on the sport, level of competition, and experience. Many also receive per-game fees, travel allowances, and benefits, with higher compensation typically associated with more prestigious leagues and certifications.

What is the difference between Head Referee vs Assistant Referee?

AspectHead RefereeAssistant Referee
CertificationsReferee certification, advanced trainingReferee certification, specialized training
Work EnvironmentOversees entire game, makes final callsAssists Head Referee, focuses on specific areas
ResponsibilitiesLead decision-making, manage game flowSupport calls, monitor sidelines and offside lines

In summary, the Head Referee is responsible for overseeing the entire game and making final decisions, while the Assistant Referee supports the Head Referee by monitoring specific areas and assisting with calls. Both roles require similar certifications but differ in scope and responsibilities within the game.

What is the highest paying referee job?

The highest paying referee jobs are typically in professional sports leagues, such as the NFL, NBA, or Major League Baseball, where referees can earn six-figure salaries. These roles often require extensive experience, specialized training, and certification, and may include additional compensation for postseason or high-profile games.

How much does a head referee get paid?

The salary of a head referee varies depending on the sport, level of competition, and location, but typically ranges from $30,000 to $80,000 annually. Experienced head referees in professional leagues or higher levels can earn higher wages, often supplemented by per-game fees and benefits. Certification and years of experience also influence pay rates.

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

To thrive as a Head Referee, you need thorough knowledge of the sport's rules, strong decision-making abilities, and relevant officiating certifications. Familiarity with scorekeeping systems, instant replay technologies, and communication equipment is often required. Leadership, impartiality, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for managing teams, coaches, and other referees under pressure. These skills ensure fair play, uphold the integrity of the game, and maintain control in high-stakes, fast-paced environments.
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Head Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Head Referee job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, and 50% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,539 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Assistant Softball Coach

Assistant Softball Coach

Wheaton Academy

West Chicago, IL • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Coach varsity or junior varsity athletes as assigned by the varsity coach.

  • Attend all regular season and post-season practices and games.

  • Assist with team excursions, community and school service activities, college recruiting, and summer camp operations.

Job description

The Assistant Softball Coach collaborates with the Head Coach to lead a Christ-centered program pursuing excellence and the spiritual and athletic formation of student-athletes. The Assistant Coach exemplifies the heart of a Living Curriculum Coach by modeling faith, building relationships, and discipling students.
Essential duties include the following. Other duties may be assigned:
  1. Coach varsity or junior varsity athletes, as assigned by varsity coach.
  2. Attend all regular season and post-season practices and games.
  3. Serve as a Christian role model to students.
  4. Display God-honoring communication with other coaches, parents, athletes, and referees.
  5. Maintain regular communication with the Head Coach and athletic department staff.
  6. Demonstrate Christ-like behavior.
  7. Lead team devotions.
  8. Continue to pursue growth in skills as a coach by learning from other coaching staff and attending coaching clinics.
  9. Use requisite technology independently to perform coaching instructional and program operational duties.
  10. Assist with team excursions.
  11. Assist with community and school service activities.
  12. Assist with college recruiting.
  13. Assist with summer camp operations.
  14. Assistant coaches are assigned select roles by the head varsity coach. These could include strategy and coordination; development and oversight of other assistant coaches; assisting with communication; athletic trainer coordination

Requirements
Wheaton Academy employees must fully embrace the school's Educational Philosophy and Mission as expressed in its Protestant Statement of Faith and commit to upholding these principles. Participation in a Protestant church whose core beliefs align with Wheaton Academy's Statement of Faith is expected.
Employment at Wheaton Academy requires affirmation of an evangelical Protestant Christian faith, including a personal commitment to Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior and a desire to share the gospel message of salvation. Employees are expected to demonstrate spiritual maturity in character and conduct, reflecting the principles of I Timothy 4:12 within and beyond the school environment (Luke 6:40). They should exemplify discernment, dignity, respect, and Christ-centered living, setting a positive example for students, families, colleagues, and the broader community.
The ideal candidate has prior collegiate playing experience. This person is knowledgeable of the game and has prior coaching experience. This individual has proven leadership experience in directing others and a program toward the completion of a vision in coaching or other professional contexts.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed above are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

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