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Professional Sports Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Life Time, Inc.

Sports referee

Montvale, NJ · On-site

$60/hr

Position Summary The Sports Referee assists in the execution of LT Sport league play by officiating ... Training and professional development * Paid sick leave where required by law Full-time Team ...

Liberty

Intramural Sports Referee

Lynchburg, VA

$12.77/hr

The Intramural Sports Referee is responsible to fairly officiate Intramural Sports events ... an articulate and professional manner. * Strong organizational skills. Problem Solving

YMCA

Sports Instructor/Referee

Madison, WI

Officiate youth sports games in a fair, consistent, and professional manner. * Maintain control of ... Our referees serve as teachers and mentors by helping young athletes understand the game ...

YMCA

Basketball Instructor and Referee

Madison, WI

Officiate youth sports games in a fair, consistent, and professional manner. * Maintain control of ... Our referees serve as teachers and mentors by helping young athletes understand the game ...

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How much do professional sports referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for professional sports 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 some of the biggest challenges a professional sports referee faces during games, and how can they be managed?

Professional Sports Referees often face intense pressure to make quick, accurate decisions in fast-paced and emotionally charged environments. Managing conflict with players, coaches, and fans requires excellent communication and impartiality. Staying physically fit, keeping up with evolving rules, and participating in regular training sessions help referees perform at their best. Building resilience and a strong support network among fellow officials is also key to handling the stress and scrutiny that come with the role.

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

To thrive as a Professional Sports Referee, you need a deep understanding of the sport's rules, strong observational skills, and often formal certification from a recognized officiating body. Familiarity with video review systems, timekeeping devices, and communication headsets is typically required. Excellent decision-making, impartiality, and clear communication allow referees to maintain control and fairness during high-pressure games. These skills are vital to ensure the integrity of the sport, player safety, and the smooth flow of competitions.

How do I become a professional sports referee?

To become a professional sports referee, you typically need to complete training and certification through a recognized sports governing body, gain experience officiating at lower levels, and demonstrate knowledge of the rules and good judgment. Many referees also pursue ongoing education and physical fitness requirements to advance to higher levels of competition.

What is the difference between Professional Sports Referee vs Umpire?

AspectProfessional Sports RefereeUmpire
CertificationsSports-specific referee certificationsUmpire certifications, often sport-specific
Work EnvironmentStadiums, arenas, sports fieldsField, court, or pitch during games
Industry UsageMajor sports leagues (football, basketball, soccer)Baseball, cricket, tennis, and other sports
Job RoleEnforce rules, make calls, ensure fair playMake calls related to plays, outs, or faults

While both Professional Sports Referees and Umpires enforce game rules and ensure fair play, referees typically oversee sports like football and basketball, whereas umpires are common in baseball, cricket, and tennis. Both roles require sport-specific certifications and are essential for maintaining the integrity of the game.

What is a professional sports referee?

Professional sports referees are officials responsible for enforcing the rules and maintaining fair play during sporting events. They make decisions on infractions, monitor gameplay, and ensure the safety of the participants. Referees must have a thorough understanding of the sport’s rules, strong communication skills, and the ability to make quick, impartial judgments under pressure. Their presence is essential to uphold the integrity and flow of professional sports competitions.
What cities are hiring for Professional Sports Referee jobs? Cities with the most Professional Sports Referee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Sports Referee jobs? The most popular types of Sports Referee jobs are:
What states have the most Professional Sports Referee jobs? States with the most job openings for Professional Sports Referee jobs include:
Professional Sports Referee jobs near you

Sports referee

Life Time, Inc.

Montvale, NJ • On-site

$60/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 16 days ago

Life Time rating

6.5

Company rating: 6.5 out of 10

Based on 391 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 63 rated gym and leisure clubs

Job description

Position Summary
The Sports Referee assists in the execution of LT Sport league play by officiating league games. They work closely with Sports League Coordinators and players to ensure a respectful and fun league experience. LT Sport leagues may include but are not limited to basketball, volleyball and soccer.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
  • Officiates LT Sport league games fairly
  • Follows and enforces all LT Sport league rules during games
  • Interacts with players in a respectful, cooperative manner
  • Works closely with Sports League Coordinator to ensure member satisfaction
  • Promotes LT Sport products and Life Time to members and non-members
  • Communicates extensive knowledge of LT Sport and Life Time programs, products, services, policies, and procedures to prospective and current members

Position Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 1-year experience referee experience
  • General knowledge of applicable sport rules
  • Certified official in applicable sport by local governing body

Pay
This position pays a class rate between $25.00 and $60.00, based on experience, qualifications, and duration of the class. The class rate compensates for all working time associated with teaching classes (including without limitation, all time spent in class as well as all pre- and post-class working time).
Benefits
All team members receive the following benefits while working for Life Time:
  • A fully subsidized membership
  • Discounts on Life Time products and services
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with company discretionary match (21 years of age and older)
  • Training and professional development
  • Paid sick leave where required by law

Full-time Team Members are eligible for additional benefits, including:
  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage
  • Short term and long term disability insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Pre-tax flexible spending and dependent care plans
  • Parental leave and adoption assistance
  • Paid time off, including 5 to 20 vacation days per calendar year (based on tenure) and paid sick leave
  • Deferred compensation plan, if the team member meets the required income threshold

Life Time is a place for everyone. As an organization, we are committed to an inclusive, diverse and equitable workplace that respects and celebrates the unique contributions of each individual while ensuring we remain an equal opportunity employer that recruits, hires, trains and promotes based on merit and qualifications.

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