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Professional Referee Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

RCX Sports

NFL FLAG Official

South Bend, IN · On-site

$12.75 - $16/hr

Maintain neutrality and professionalism, including de-escalating disputes when needed * Conduct pre ... Knowledgeable of the rules and referee signals. We will help teach the rules and mechanics.

i9 Sports

Soccer Official

Fishers, IN · On-site

$15/hr

Positive attitude and a strong ability to build professional relationships * Ability to work a varied work schedule including weekends and some evenings (for the full duration of the season, ~7 weeks)

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All JobsProfessional Referee JobsProfessional Referee Jobs in Indiana

Professional Referee information

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$5

$19

$55

How much do professional referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional referee in Indiana is $19.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.44 and $21.06 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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.

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 Indiana? The most popular types of Referee jobs in Indiana are:
What cities in Indiana are hiring for Professional Referee jobs? Cities in Indiana with the most Professional Referee job openings:
Professional Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Professional Referee job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,430 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Youth Sports - Basketball Referee

YMCA of Southwestern Indiana, Inc.

Evansville, IN • On-site

$10 - $20/hr

Part-time

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:
This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit, charitable organization committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. Under the supervision and guidance of the Youth Sports Coordinator, the Youth Basketball Referee is responsible for officiating youth basketball games for the Dunigan YMCA Youth Basketball Programs.
OUR CULTURE:
Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on a relentless quest to strengthen our community, beginning with you.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
  • Adhere to policies related to boundaries with youth.
  • Complete the required abuse risk management training.
  • Adhere to procedures related to managing high-risk activities and supervising youth.
  • Report suspicious or inappropriate behaviors and policy violations.
  • Follow mandated abuse reporting requirements.
  • Facilitate student learning.
  • Uphold the four core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility.
  • Create a positive and inclusive environment.
  • Referees will be expected to referee youth games, keeping the youth safe and the games under control while wearing a referee jersey and black pants/shorts.
  • Act professionally to serve as role models for the participants.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
  • The physical demands described here are representative of those required of an employee to perform the essential functions of this job successfully. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 10 pounds.
  • Specific vision abilities required for this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.

QUALIFICATIONS:
  • CPR/AED, First Aid, Oxygen, and Bloodborne Pathogen training required within 60 days of employment.
  • Child Abuse Prevention training is required before/on the first day of working with youth.
  • Must be familiar with the rules of basketball and the modified YMCA rules.
  • Must be able to communicate with Coaches to get games started promptly.
  • Must be able to run for extended periods.
  • Must be able to communicate schedule conflicts with supervisor.
  • Must be able to remain calm in a stressful, competitive atmosphere.

Apply