ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Professional Sports Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Life Time

Basketball Referee

Westwood, MA · 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 ...

Life Time, Inc.

Basketball Referee

Westwood, MA · 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 ...

Plus One Health Management

Referee

Beaverton, OR · On-site

We are currently seeking Sport Referees to work at a large retail's headquarters fitness centers in ... Free professional development courses through internal learning management systems * Discounted ...

Plus One, an Optum Company

Referee

Beaverton, OR · On-site

We are currently seeking Sport Referees to work at a large retail's headquarters fitness centers in ... Free professional development courses through internal learning management systems * Discounted ...

Plus One an Optum Company

Referee

Beaverton, OR · On-site

We are currently seeking Sport Referees to work at a large retail's headquarters fitness centers in ... Free professional development courses through internal learning management systems * Discounted ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsProfessional Sports Referee Jobs

Professional Sports Referee information

See salary details

$6

$20

$58

How much do professional sports referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 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.

How much do pro sports refs make?

Professional sports referees typically earn between $20,000 and $100,000 annually, depending on the league, level of experience, and the sport. Major league referees in sports like the NFL or NBA tend to earn higher salaries, often supplemented by per-game pay and benefits, while referees in lower leagues or amateur levels earn less. Certification, experience, and the sport's popularity influence earning potential.

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, and why are they important?

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.

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.

How do I become a professional referee?

To become a professional sports referee, you typically need to complete relevant training and certification programs offered by sports governing bodies, gain experience through officiating at lower levels, and demonstrate strong knowledge of the rules and good decision-making skills. Many leagues require passing exams and maintaining physical fitness to officiate at higher levels.

How much does a D1 ref get paid?

Division 1 referees in college sports typically earn between $2,000 and $4,000 per game, depending on the sport and conference. They often work multiple games per week during the season and may receive additional compensation for postseason tournaments. Experience, certifications, and the level of competition influence pay rates for college referees.

What sports refs make the most money?

Professional sports referees in high-profile leagues such as the NFL, NBA, and Major League Baseball tend to earn the highest salaries, often reaching six figures annually. Referees in these leagues require extensive experience, certification, and often work full-time, with earnings influenced by the league, level of competition, and game frequency.

What are professional sports referees?

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 - Basketball

YMCA San Antonio

San Antonio, TX • On-site

$13/hr

Part-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

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. With general guidance of the Sports Director the referee officiates practices and games. Will adhere to the child care policies and the goals of the YMCA, and directs each game in accordance with the mission statement of the YMCA of San Antonio and the standards of all regulatory agencies.

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 make our community stronger beginning with you.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  1. Officiate sports games for all levels of YMCA sports programming to include keeping time and identifying parents to volunteer as scorekeepers when appropriate.
  2. Must have knowledge of game rules and responsibilities as well as attend sport specific training as required.
  3. Monitor and respond to all horseplay.
  4. Promote participant safety and engagement in accordance with YMCA policies and procedures.
  5. Give answers to questions or seek others who can do so.
  6. Develop and maintain communication with the parents, players, and coaches.
  7. Enforce all YMCA rules and policies.
  8. Keep current on all game and practice schedule changes.
  9. Respond to all emergencies in a prompt manner.
  10. Responsible for cleanliness of facility sites.
  11. Maintain a courteous, friendly attitude, and be a positive role model.
  12. Attend all trainings and meetings relating to the position.
  13. Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

 

LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES:

  • Inclusion
  • Communication & Influence
  • Engaging Community

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • Must be at least 16 years of age.
  • Understand the basic principles of sports programs such as basketball, baseball, soccer, football, and volleyball.
  • Demonstrate diplomatic interpersonal skills.
  • Must be able to establish and maintain harmonious relationships by promoting caring, honesty, respect and responsibility with staff, YMCA members, and program participants.
  • Ability to relate to children and parents.
  • Must demonstrate courtesy and service to program participants and maintain a professional appearance.
  • Follow YMCA policies and decision in a supportive manner
  • Ability to intervene in conflict resolution.
  • Serve as a Primary responder.
  • Child Abuse Prevention training and certifications required before the first shift. Safety and prevention trainings are also required to be completed on an annual basis.
  • Certifications required within the first 60 days of hire: YMCA approved basic life saving skills such as CPR, First Aid, AED.

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

  • Work is performed in a fast-paced outdoor environment and requires work in off-site locations.
  • Visual acuity is required for monitoring potential hazards for children.
  • Job requires high levels of alertness and concentration.
  • Must be able to physically intervene in situations that might compromise safety
  • Ability to make sound decisions and judgments even when distracted by noise and activity.
  • Repetitive stooping and bending with occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds is required.
  • Ability to stand and walk for long periods at a time is also required.
  • Employee must be able to hear, speak and understand the words of others, as well as, the ability to manipulate keyboards, telephone keypads, writing utensils is essential.

Apply