ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Part Time Referee Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Northbrook Park District

Referee

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Join the Northbrook Park District as a Referee and help create a fun, safe, and positive ... Pay & Schedule: $16.00 - $18.00 Per Hour This is a part-time, non-exempt position, Saturdays from ...

NORTHBROOK PARK DISTRICT

Referee

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Join the Northbrook Park District as a Referee and help create a fun, safe, and positive ... Pay & Schedule: $16.00 - $18.00 Per Hour This is a part-time, non-exempt position, Saturdays from ...

TOCA Football

Soccer League Referee

Naperville, IL · On-site

$30/hr

On Demand Pay * Part Time, Flexible Scheduling * Career Growth amp; Development * Employee Assistance Program * Active amp; Fit Membership * Benefits Hub Discount Marketplace * So many TOCA Perks we ...

TOCA Football

Soccer League Referee

Naperville, IL · On-site

Competitive Pay & On Demand Pay * Part Time, Flexible Scheduling * Career Growth & Development * Employee Assistance Program * Active & Fit Membership * Benefits Hub Discount Marketplace * So many ...

YMCA

Youth Sports Volunteer

Rock Island, IL · On-site

Job Type: Part-time Description Year-Round Volunteer Opportunities Do you love playing sports? Do ... Lead by example among team parents to support the responsibilities of the referee and league ...

YMCA

Youth Sports Volunteer

Moline, IL · On-site

Job Type Part-time Description Year-Round Volunteer Opportunities Do you love playing sports? Do ... Lead by example among team parents to support the responsibilities of the referee and league ...

TWO RIVERS YMCA

Youth Sports Volunteer

Rock Island, IL · On-site

Job Type: Part-time Description Year-Round Volunteer Opportunities Do you love playing sports? Do ... Lead by example among team parents to support the responsibilities of the referee and league ...

Peoria Park District

Ice Rink Support

Peoria, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

On-Ice Referee * Facility Supervision * Ice Maintenance * Operation of Ice Re-Surfacer * Patron ... Perks : * Part-time employees enjoy discounted recreation classes and free admission to select Park ...

Peoria Park District

Ice Rink Support

Peoria, IL · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

On-Ice Referee * Facility Supervision * Ice Maintenance * Operation of Ice Re-Surfacer * Patron ... Perks : * Part-time employees enjoy discounted recreation classes and free admission to select Park ...

i9 Sports

Youth Volleyball Instructor/Coach

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Flexible schedule Youth Volleyball Instructor / Coach (Part-Time Weekend) Love Volleyball? Enjoy ... Referee youth games when needed * Encourage teamwork, confidence, and good sportsmanship * Help ...

i9 Sports

Youth Soccer Instructor/Coach

Chicago, IL · On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Flexible schedule Youth Soccer Instructor / Coach (Part-Time Weekend) Love Soccer? Enjoy working ... Referee youth games when needed * Encourage teamwork, confidence, and good sportsmanship * Help ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsReferee JobsPart Time Referee JobsPart Time Referee Jobs in Illinois

Part Time Referee information

See Illinois salary details

$6

$20

$56

How much do part time referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for part time referee in Illinois is $20.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.63 and $21.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much money do refs get paid?

Part-time 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, certifications, and travel expenses, with pay rates increasing for higher-level or professional leagues.

What are the responsibilities of a part-time referee?

A part-time referee is responsible for enforcing the rules and maintaining fair play during sports games or matches. Their duties include starting and stopping play, making judgment calls on rule infractions, and ensuring the safety of all participants. Part-time referees often work flexible hours, usually evenings or weekends, and may officiate at various levels from youth leagues to amateur adult competitions. Good communication, impartiality, and a thorough knowledge of the sport's rules are essential for this role.

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

To thrive as a Part Time Referee, you need a thorough understanding of the rules of the sport, quick decision-making abilities, and often a certification from a recognized sports authority. Familiarity with timing devices, scorekeeping systems, and sometimes digital reporting tools is typically required. Strong communication, impartiality, and conflict resolution skills help you effectively manage games and interactions with players, coaches, and spectators. These skills ensure fair play, safety, and smooth game operations, which are essential for maintaining integrity and enjoyment in sports events.

Is being a ref a good side hustle?

Being a part-time referee can be a suitable side hustle for individuals interested in sports and with good communication skills. It typically involves flexible hours, short-term commitments, and may require certification or training, making it a practical option for earning extra income on weekends or evenings.

How much do part-time NFL refs make?

Part-time NFL referees typically earn around $205,000 per season, with some earning less depending on experience and game assignments. They are paid per game, with additional compensation for playoff and Super Bowl officiating, and must pass certification and training requirements. Most refs work on a seasonal basis during the NFL season, which runs from September to January or February.

What are some common challenges faced by part-time referees during games?

Part-time referees often encounter challenges such as managing disputes between players and coaches, maintaining authority on the field, and making quick decisions under pressure. Balancing these responsibilities while ensuring fair play and safety can be demanding, especially when officiating games for different age groups or skill levels. Additionally, part-time referees may need to adapt to varying schedules and locations, requiring strong time management and communication skills.

What is the difference between Part Time Referee vs Part Time Umpire?

AspectPart Time RefereePart Time Umpire
Required CredentialsReferee certification, depending on sportUmpire certification, specific to sport
Work EnvironmentSports fields, gyms, arenasSports fields, courts, stadiums
Employer & Industry UsageSchools, leagues, sports clubsLeagues, tournaments, sports associations
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Part Time Referees and Part Time Umpires officiate sports events, ensuring fair play. While their certifications and specific duties may differ based on the sport, both roles require knowledge of game rules and good judgment. They work in similar environments like sports fields and stadiums and are employed by leagues, schools, or sports organizations. The main difference lies in the terminology used for different sports, but both roles serve the purpose of officiating part-time sports events.

Do NFL refs have part-time jobs?

NFL referees are typically full-time professionals who officiate games during the season and often have other careers or jobs during the off-season. Many referees work in related fields such as coaching, teaching, or other professions, but officiating at the NFL level is generally considered a full-time commitment. Some lower-level referees or officials in amateur leagues may hold part-time jobs, but NFL referees usually do not.
What are the most commonly searched types of Referee jobs in Illinois? The most popular types of Referee jobs in Illinois are:
What are popular job titles related to Part Time Referee jobs in Illinois? For Part Time Referee jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Part Time Referee jobs in Illinois look for? The top searched job categories for Part Time Referee jobs in Illinois are:
What cities in Illinois are hiring for Part Time Referee jobs? Cities in Illinois with the most Part Time Referee job openings:
Part Time Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Part Time Referee job openings in Illinois as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,190 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

Referee

Northbrook Park District

Northbrook, IL • On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Part-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Join the Northbrook Park District as a Referee and help create a fun, safe, and positive environment for athletes of all ages. We are looking for dependable individuals with a passion for sports and a commitment to fair play. This position is responsible for the officiating and maintaining control of an assigned game(s) or activity. Demonstrates commitment to the Mission, Vision and Guiding Principles of the District.
Pay & Schedule:
$16.00 - $18.00 Per Hour
This is a part-time, non-exempt position, Saturdays from 12:00 PM - 3:30 PM.
Anticipated Start Date: 8/17/26
Duties & Responsibilities:
  • Adhere to and enforce all rules as specified by the league.
  • Educate players and coaches on the rules of the game.
  • Be prompt for all games.
  • Ensures games are started and ended on schedule.
  • Enforce rules of the game(s), maintain control of the game and conduct of players.
  • Professionally enforces rules, regulations and policies of the Northbrook Park District.
  • Cancel or delay a game in progress due to hazardous field or weather conditions.
  • In case of a protest or another problem/situation arises, an official must give their input to the Supervisor/Director.
  • Report scores to Supervisor or Site Director.
  • Accurately completes and submits Accident Reports for all injuries and Incident Reports as needed.
  • Independently procures a substitute when unable to work and immediately informs Leisure Services Supervisor of impending absence.
  • Wears issued Northbrook Park District apparel at all times when on duty.
  • Diligently follows and adheres to all safety policies and procedures.
  • Collaborates with internal and external customers in a positive manner.
  • Follows safe work practices.
  • Attends trainings and meetings as required.
  • May be required to personally maintain or have access to facility keys, fobs, or codes for facility access.
  • Completes special assignments or tasks as requested by direct supervisor.
  • Performs related duties as assigned.

Benefits
All employees are eligible for the Recreation Benefits usage, which includes discounted and/or complimentary services.
To view job description, click here.
Must be 16 years of age or older and possess knowledge of the games supervised; or any equivalent combination of training and experience which provides the following knowledge, ability and skills.
Skills & Abilities
  • Possess leadership capabilities and the ability to take charge
  • Communicates effectively with co-workers and public in a professional manner during stressful situations
  • Become CPR/AED Certified

Knowledge
  • Possess in-depth knowledge of the assigned sport and its league rules
  • District safety policies and procedures

Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to use hands and fingers, handle or operate objects, tools or controls; and reach with hands and arms.
  • The employee frequently is required to stand and talk or hear. The employee is frequently required to walk; sit; climb or balance; stoop, kneel or crouch, or crawl; and smell.
  • The employee may be required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds. Lifting also requires bending, stooping, carrying and twisting.
  • Specific vision ability required by this job includes close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

Apply