1

Professional Referee Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

Senior Software Engineer

Fayetteville, GA ยท On-site

$107K - $141K/yr

... professional flexibility, and an empathic management style that builds bold teams and delivers ... serving coaches, referees, educators, Organization Members, players, parents, and other ...

Showing results 41-56

Professional Referee information

See Georgia salary details

$5

$17

$49

How much do professional referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional referee in Georgia is $17.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.14 and $18.65 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a professional referee?

Professional referees are officials who oversee and enforce the rules in sports competitions at a professional level. Their responsibilities include making impartial decisions, ensuring fair play, and maintaining the integrity of the game. Professional referees often undergo rigorous training, certification, and regularly participate in continuing education to stay updated on rule changes. They may work in various sports such as soccer, basketball, football, or hockey and are often employed by sports leagues or associations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a professional referee?

To thrive as a Professional Referee, you need in-depth knowledge of the applicable sport's rules, strong decision-making skills, and relevant certifications from governing bodies. Familiarity with officiating technologies like instant replay systems and wearable communication devices is often required. Outstanding focus, impartiality, and effective communication help referees manage high-pressure situations and maintain authority on the field. These abilities are crucial to ensure fair play, player safety, and the integrity of the competition.

What are the main challenges a professional referee faces during high-stakes matches?

Professional Referees often encounter high-pressure situations, especially during crucial moments in competitive matches. Managing intense emotions from players, coaches, and fans while maintaining impartiality can be demanding. Additionally, referees must make quick, accurate decisions in real time, sometimes with limited visibility, and handle instant feedback or criticism. Strong communication skills and mental resilience are essential to effectively manage these challenges and ensure fair play.

What is the difference between Professional Referee vs Sports Official?

AspectProfessional RefereeSports Official
CredentialsCertifications in officiating sports, training in rules and regulationsCertifications vary by sport, includes rules knowledge and sometimes specialized training
Work EnvironmentStadiums, sports fields, arenas during gamesStadiums, gyms, sports complexes during events
Employer & IndustrySports leagues, associations, governing bodiesSports organizations, leagues, local clubs
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Both Professional Referees and Sports Officials are responsible for enforcing rules during sporting events. While their roles are similar, referees often have more responsibilities, such as making critical decisions and managing game flow. Both roles require specialized certifications and are employed by sports organizations. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the sports officiating industry.

How do you become a professional referee?

To become a professional referee, individuals typically need to complete relevant training and certification programs offered by sports governing bodies, gain experience through officiating at lower levels, and demonstrate knowledge of the rules and good judgment. Maintaining physical fitness and staying updated on rule changes are also important for advancement in the profession.

What are the most commonly searched types of Referee jobs in Georgia?

The most popular types of Referee jobs in Georgia are:

What cities in Georgia are hiring for Professional Referee jobs?

Cities in Georgia with the most Professional Referee job openings:

Infographic showing various Professional Referee job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $36,764 per year, or $17.7 per hour.

Preschool Soccer Coach - Saturdays

Tiny Troops Soccer

Columbus, GA โ€ข On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Lead Saturday soccer coaching sessions for children ages 18 months to 4 years old using provided lesson plans and activities.

  • Communicate effectively with parents and administrative staff regarding coaching activities and child progress.

  • Attend mandatory virtual coach meetings and participate in online administrative tasks related to coaching responsibilities.


Job description

Calling All Teachers, Babysitters & Fun-Loving Leaders!
Do you have a gift for making little ones giggle, pay attention, and try new things? Can you roar like a dinosaur, hop like a frog, or chug like a train if it means teaching kids through play? Then Tiny Troops Soccer wants YOU!
We're a minority woman-owned business powered by military spouses that has proudly employed
750+ military spouses, dependents, and civilians worldwide. Our mission is simple but powerful: to serve military kids (ages 18 months-4 years old) and their friends by teaching them the beautiful game of soccer while building confidence, friendships, and a love of movement.
With Tiny Troops, you're not just a coach-you're a role model, a cheerleader, and a part of a global community dedicated to helping kids grow strong and resilient, both on and off the field.
WHAT YOU WILL LOVE ABOUT US
  • Bond with awesome kids - Our coaches roar, hop, and laugh right alongside their players.
  • Grow your leadership skills - Gain teaching and team-building experience using ready-to-go lesson plans.
  • Family perks - Free program participation for your child + extra incentives through our rewards program.
  • Future benefits - Access a 401(k) retirement plan to start immediately.
  • Specialized training - We'll give you lesson plans, activities, and equipment + professional coaching support.
  • Community & growth - Connect with fellow coaches through monthly trainings, online meetings, and fun events.
  • Have kids? Coaches' children can participate in our classes for FREE!

HOURS
Saturday availability is required. *No classes scheduled during holiday weekends.
Expect to work between 2 to 6 hours per week. Additional hours during the week will be required for online administrative tasks such as coach evaluations, Slack and email communications, lesson material reviews, training, and monthly coach meetings, which will take around 2-3 hours per month. Must be available to attend mandatory virtual coach meetings on the first Thursday of each month.
HOURLY SALARY
Start strong with a competitive $18-$19 hour for entry-level coaches. Administrative and off-field tasks are compensated at $15/hour.
RESPONSIBILITIES & REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Must be 18+ and a high school graduate.
  • Love working with kids and bringing high energy to every class.
  • Commit to at least 4 months of Saturday coaching (occasional Sundays if needed).
  • Must be available for the dates below.
  • Be comfortable leading independently and communicating with parents and administrative staff.
  • Reliable transportation to the field.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS
  • Experience in coaching, playing, refereeing soccer, babysitting, nannying, or teaching is a plus!

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
The candidate must demonstrate the physical capabilities of:
  • Stay active with the ability to remain upright, reach, squat, kneel, run, and move dynamically during coaching sessions.
  • Independently rise from a seated position to engage effectively in childcare activities.

CLASS SCHEDULE
*No classes scheduled during holiday weekends.
Join the fun on the field on these dates (first three Saturdays of each month):
  • September 12, 19, 26
  • October 3, 10, 17
  • November 7, 14, 21
  • **2027 dates to follow

EX: Saturday morning schedule
8:30 - 8:55 a.m. - 18 months - 24 months
9:00-9:25 a.m. - 2 year olds
9:45-10:30 a.m. - 3 year olds
10:45-11:30 a.m. - 4 year olds
FIELD LOCATION
Benning Park: 1441 Benning Dr., Columbus, GA 31903
This is more than a job-it's a chance to inspire confidence, spark joy, and make an impact on children (and their families) who need consistency, positivity, and fun.
Apply today and join Tiny Troops Soccer-where we build happy kids, strong communities, and lifelong soccer fans... one giggle at a time! โšฝ
PLEASE NOTE:
If your child participates in the classes you coach, ensure another adult is present at every class to assist or remove them from the field if needed.