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Hockey Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

THE PLEX LLC

Hockey Referee

San Jose, CA · On-site

$18.45 - $20/hr

We are looking for a Hockey Referee who will be responsible for ensuring fair play, safety, and adherence to the rules of the game during hockey matches. They are responsible for making impartial ...

GOTO PLEX

Hockey Referee

San Jose, CA · On-site

$18.45 - $20/hr

We are looking for a Hockey Referee who will be responsible for ensuring fair play, safety, and adherence to the rules of the game during hockey matches. They are responsible for making impartial ...

Nashville Predators

Part-Time - Referee

Nashville, TN · On-site

Referee (Part-Time) Location: Centennial Ice Rink Job Reports To: Facility Operations Manager ... Officiate at hockey games or competitions to maintain standards of play and to ensure that game ...

DSE Hockey Centers LP

Hockey Programs Manager

Euless, TX · On-site

$50K/yr

... and referees for all games ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES: * Resolve and respond to all customer ... Serve as the liaison between all program participants and USA Hockey * Manage timecards for all ...

Spectate Group

Hockey Manager

Vernon Hills, IL · On-site

Schedules referees for non-league home games and tournaments related to Glacier Hockey * Hires qualified head and assistant coaches, including skills and goaltending * Establishes and enforces club ...

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Hockey Referee information

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How much do hockey referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for hockey 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 in the Hockey Referee position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hockey Referee, you need expert knowledge of the game’s rules, strong skating ability, sharp observational skills, and physical fitness. Certification from organizations like USA Hockey or Hockey Canada is typically required, as well as familiarity with officiating tools such as whistles, penalty cards, and game report systems. Exceptional communication, conflict resolution, and decisiveness help referees manage players, coaches, and high-pressure game situations. These abilities ensure safety, fairness, and efficient game flow, which are essential for successful officiating.

How hard is it to become NHL ref?

Becoming an NHL referee requires extensive experience officiating at lower levels, such as junior or minor leagues, and obtaining certification from relevant hockey associations. Candidates must demonstrate strong knowledge of the game, physical fitness, and the ability to make quick, accurate decisions under pressure. Progression through various levels and gaining recognition is a lengthy process that can take several years.

Do NHL refs get paid good?

NHL referees typically earn a competitive salary, with experienced officials making six-figure incomes annually. Their pay depends on experience, game assignments, and union agreements, and they often work long hours including nights and weekends. Many referees also receive benefits and travel allowances as part of their compensation package.

How do you become a hockey referee?

To become a hockey referee, you typically need to complete a certification course through your local hockey association or league, which covers rules, safety, and officiating techniques. After certification, referees often start at lower levels and gain experience, with some leagues requiring background checks and ongoing training to officiate at higher levels.

What is a Hockey Referee job?

A hockey referee is responsible for enforcing the rules of the game, ensuring fair play, and making judgment calls on penalties, goals, and other game situations. They skate alongside the players, communicate with coaches and officials, and maintain control over the game's flow. Referees use hand signals and whistles to indicate their decisions and must have strong skating skills, game knowledge, and quick decision-making abilities.

How much do hockey refs get paid?

Hockey referees typically earn between $25 and $75 per game, depending on the level of play, experience, and the league. Officials may also receive additional compensation for playoffs and travel, with some referees working multiple games per week. Higher-level leagues and experienced referees tend to earn more.

What are some common challenges faced by Hockey Referees during games?

Hockey Referees often encounter challenges such as making split-second decisions under pressure, managing disagreements or confrontations from players and coaches, and maintaining authority while ensuring player safety. The fast-paced nature of hockey requires constant focus, quick reactions, and the ability to keep up physically with play. Referees must also handle emotional intensity and maintain impartiality, even when crowds are vocal or the stakes are high. Successfully navigating these situations is an important part of upholding the integrity and smooth flow of the game.

More about Hockey Referee jobs
What cities are hiring for Hockey Referee jobs? Cities with the most Hockey Referee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Hockey Referee jobs? The most popular types of Hockey Referee jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Hockey Referee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Hockey Referee jobs are:
Hockey Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Hockey Referee job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, 29% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,539 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Hockey Referee

Hockey Referee

THE PLEX LLC

San Jose, CA • On-site

$18.45 - $20/hr

Other

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

The Plex is your premier destination for family fun, event planning, sports, dining, parties, and more. Our 3 operating businesses (The Plex Athletic Club, Sports, and The Penalty Box Bar and Grill) offers 240,000 square feet of entertainment space under one roof where you will find everything you need for fun, fitness, family activities, food & beverage, parties, and social events. Open 7-days a week, our facility offers an arcade of games, bocce ball, bouncy houses, wall climbing, cornhole, darts, pizza, sushi, tapas, a vast beer wall and so much more.

We are looking for a Hockey Referee who will be responsible for ensuring fair play, safety, and adherence to the rules of the game during hockey matches. They are responsible for making impartial decisions, enforcing penalties, and maintaining control over the game to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Duties/Responsibilities:

  • Arrive before the game and be fully dressed and on the rink at the scheduled start time.
  • Officiate hockey games in accordance with established rules and regulations from start to finish Each game is officiated by two hockey referees and one scorekeeper.
  • Check the nets and playing surface for pucks before the start of any game.
  • Inspect and ensure player equipment before the game to ensure it complies with safety standards, players are wearing elbow pads and a HECC approved helmet (full cages or full shields are required for all players; visors and no visors are not allowed). They must be wearing them throughout the game and during Warmups.
  • Wear an official hockey referee jersey with orange armbands, solid black pants (not tucked into skates), and a HECC approved helmet without a cage. (Visor or No Visor is allowed).
  • Manage the pace of the game, ensuring that it flows smoothly and without unnecessary delays.
  • Maintain control over confrontations and altercations between players.
  • Resolve disputes and conflicts between players, coaches, and other team officials in a fair and professional manner.
  • Assess and administer penalties to players (2, 4, 5, 10-minute penalties) that commit infractions stated in the Rollin Ice Rulebook.
  • Keep track of penalty time and ensure players serve their penalties appropriately.
  • Fill out a suspension form with a clear, detailed, and legible description of the incident that occurs and ensure all three officials (REF, REF, SK) sign the form.
  • Have a full understanding of the Rollin Ice Hockey Rulebook and apply the rules in the games officiated.
  • Make impartial and quick decisions on issues such as goals, penalties, and offside plays.
  • Consult with fellow officials when necessary to reach accurate decisions.
  • Communicate with players, coaches, and team captains to address concerns, provide explanations for calls, and maintain a respectful environment on the ice.
  • Address any safety concerns regarding player equipment promptly.
  • Help scorekeepers if necessary and ensure the scorekeepers are paying attention to the game. Act professionally on and off the rink when engaging with customers.

Required Skills/Abilities:

  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to make quick and accurate decisions under pressure.
  • Neutrality and the ability to remain impartial in the face of intense competition.

Education and Experience:

  • High school diploma or equivalent.
  • Entry level up to one-year of related experience required.
  • Previous hockey experience preferred, but not required.
  • Knowledge of hockey rules and regulations.
  • Prior experience as a hockey referee is preferred but not always required.

Physical Requirements:

  • Physical fitness and stamina to keep up with the fast-paced nature of the game.
  • Standing for prolonged periods
  • Able to Roller Skate forwards and backwards while keeping an eye on play.
  • Raising Arm to Call Penalties
  • Blowing a whistle loudly –
  • Irregular working hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, are common during the hockey season.
  • Good vision and hearing to track the action of the games.

Apply