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Professional Sports Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

i9 Sports

Youth Sports Referee

CA · On-site

$16.50/hr

Positive attitude and a strong ability to build professional relationships * Ability to work a ... We offer youth sports leagues, camps and clinics for kids ages 3 and up in today's most popular ...

YMCA of Metropolitan L.A.

Referee (4018)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18.47/hr

POSITION SUMMARY A Youth Sports Referee at the YMCA of Metropolitan Los Angles will officiate a ... Ability to remain calm and professional under pressure * Availability on weekends and evenings for ...

New

Millennium Health and Fitness, Inc.

$35/hr

Weeknights and weekends Job Summary We are looking for reliable and professional Sports Officials / Referees to officiate recreational and competitive games in the Anchorage area. Sports may include ...

New

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 ...

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How much do professional sports referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 15, 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' salaries vary widely depending on the league and level of competition. For example, NFL referees typically earn between $205,000 and $205,000 per year, while NBA referees can make around $600,000 annually. Many referees also receive per-game pay, benefits, and require certification and experience to qualify for higher-paying leagues.

How to become a referee for professional sports?

To become a professional sports 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 strong knowledge of the rules and good decision-making skills. Maintaining physical fitness and passing periodic assessments are also essential for advancement in the profession.

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 much does a D1 ref get paid?

Division 1 referees in college sports typically earn between $2,000 and $4,000 per game, with annual salaries varying based on experience, conference, and sport. Many refs also receive benefits such as travel stipends and per diem payments, and must complete certification and training to officiate at this level.

How much does a professional referee get paid?

The pay for a professional sports referee varies depending on the league, sport, and level of experience. In major leagues, referees can earn from several thousand to over fifty thousand dollars per season, with some top officials earning higher salaries and additional compensation for game assignments and travel. Many referees also need certification and ongoing training to maintain their positions.

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

Youth Sports Referee (Southwest)

Greater Austin YMCA

Austin, TX

Part-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

Why Your Role Matters

At the Greater Austin YMCA, youth sports are about more than just the game-they'reabout building character, teamwork, and confidence in every child. As a Youth Sports Referee, you play a crucial role in creating a safe, fair, and fun environment across multiple sports, including basketball, soccer, volleyball, and flag football. Your ability to enforce rules, encouragesportsmanshipand ensure player safety helps shape a positive experience for young athletes.

How You Make an Impact

  • Create a safe and welcoming environment where all players, families, and coaches feel included and valued.
  • Ensure fair play for everyone by officiating games with consistency, integrity, and respect.
  • Promote teamwork and sportsmanship by modeling positive behavior and encouraging players to support one another.
  • Keep the game safe and fun by identifying and addressing potential risks before each match begins.
  • Stay calm and confident when making calls, ensuring that every participant feels heard and respected.
  • Communicate effectively and with empathy, engaging with players, coaches, and families in a positive and professional manner.
  • Support smooth game-day operations byassistingwith equipment setup and takedown as needed.
  • Respond to injuries or emergencies with care and efficiency, ensuring all incidents are properly reported.
  • Continue to learn and grow by attendingtrainingsand meetings to enhance your officiating skills.
  • Demonstrate the YMCA's values in every interaction, fostering a positive culture and serving as an ambassador of our work to inspire others and strengthen our purpose within the community.
  • Complete allduties asassigned to support the success of the sportsprogram.

What You Bring to the Y

  • Minimumage of 16.
  • At least one year of experience in officiating, playing sports, or a similar role, with a willingness to learn new sports.
  • CPR and First Aid certification (must be obtained within30 daysofemployment).
  • Official certification is a plus but notrequired.
  • Strong decision-making skills with the ability to remain calm under pressure.
  • Growth Mindset:Learn and improveto better serve members and the mission.
  • Team Player:Work collaboratively with others and support a positive team environment.
  • Communicates Effectively:Listen actively and communicate clearly with members and peers.
  • Customer Focused:Anticipatesneeds and ensures quality, member-centered service.
  • Fosters Belonging:Ensure everyone feels welcomed, respected, and included.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, the employeeis regularly required tosit, stand, walk, bend, talk and occasionally lift and/or move items including equipment,furnitureand/or children. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

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