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Referee Umpire Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Moore County

Referee/Umpire

Carthage, NC

$21.28 - $42.58/hr

... umpire/referee clinics Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with coaches, participants, staff, and the general public Education and Experience Requirements Previous ...

Peoria Park District

Adult Soccer Referee

Peoria, IL · On-site

$35/hr

Duties : Under the supervision of the Athletics Coordinator, the Adult Soccer Referee is ... Previous experience and umpire certifications are a plus, but not required. Knowledge and Ability

Peoria Park District

Adult Soccer Referee

Peoria, IL · On-site

$35/hr

Duties : Under the supervision of the Athletics Coordinator, the Adult Soccer Referee is ... Previous experience and umpire certifications are a plus, but not required. Knowledge and Ability

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How much do referee umpire jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for referee umpire 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 is a referee umpire?

Referee umpires are officials who oversee sports games or competitions to ensure that rules are followed and fair play is maintained. They make important decisions such as calling fouls, scoring, and handling disputes between players or teams. Referee umpires are essential in maintaining the integrity of the game, and they often require thorough knowledge of the sport's rules, strong observational skills, and the ability to remain impartial under pressure. Their presence helps promote a safe and enjoyable environment for all participants.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a referee umpire, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Referee Umpire, you need a comprehensive understanding of the sport’s rules, strong decision-making skills, and usually official certification from a sports governing body. Familiarity with scorekeeping systems, instant replay technology, and communication equipment is often required. Exceptional focus, impartiality, and clear verbal communication help referees manage games and handle disputes effectively. These skills and qualities are essential for ensuring fair play, maintaining control, and upholding the integrity of the competition.

What are some common challenges faced by referee umpires during matches, and how are they addressed?

Referee Umpires often encounter challenges such as making split-second decisions, managing disputes between players or teams, and maintaining authority under pressure. To address these challenges, they rely on thorough knowledge of the rules, strong communication skills, and the ability to stay impartial and calm in high-stress situations. Continuous training and experience help Referee Umpires build confidence and improve their decision-making, while many also participate in post-match reviews to learn and refine their officiating techniques.

What is the difference between Referee Umpire vs Coach?

AspectReferee UmpireCoach
CredentialsSport-specific officiating certificationsCoaching certifications or licenses
Work EnvironmentSports fields, courts, or arenas during gamesTraining facilities, sidelines, or team offices
Industry UsageOfficially officiates games, enforces rulesDevelops players' skills, strategies

Referee Umpires and Coaches both work in sports but serve different roles. Referee Umpires officiate games, ensuring rules are followed, while Coaches focus on training and strategy development. Their credentials, work environments, and industry functions differ significantly, making each role essential for a successful sporting event.

How much do referees and umpires make?

Referees and umpires' earnings vary based on the sport, level of competition, and experience. For example, professional sports officials can earn from a few thousand to over $50,000 per year, while youth or amateur officials typically earn less, often paid per game or event. Certification and specialization can also influence pay rates.

How to become a referee umpire?

To become a referee or umpire, individuals typically need to complete training or certification programs specific to the sport, which cover rules, safety, and officiating techniques. Gaining experience through volunteering or officiating at lower levels can help build skills and credibility, and some leagues or organizations require background checks and ongoing education. Strong communication, decision-making, and knowledge of the sport are essential for success in this role.
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Referee Umpire jobs near you
Infographic showing various Referee Umpire job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 53% Full Time, 39% Part Time, 4% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,539 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Instructor I/II/III/IV - Referee/Umpire (Soccer Seasonal Summer)

Desert Recreation District

Mecca, CA

Temporary

Re-posted yesterday

Job description

DEFINITION: Under general supervision (Instructor I/II) or direction (Instructor III/IV), performs a combination of instructional and officiating duties in connection with District sports, recreation, and leisure programs. Officiates games, tournaments, and competitions; enforces rules and regulations; demonstrates techniques and skills; and ensures a safe, engaging, and positive environment for participants. Continuously monitors participant safety and well-being, maintains program records, and provides customer service while supporting program operations. Performs related work as required.

SUPERVISION RECEIVED AND EXCERCISED: Receives general supervision (Instructor I/II) or direction (Instructor III/IV) from assigned supervisory or management personnel. Exercises no direct supervision over staff.

CLASS CHARACTERISTICS:

Instructor I ? Referee/Umpire: This is the entry-level classification in the series responsible for performing basic instructional and officiating duties within assigned sports, recreation, and leisure programs. Incumbents assist in leading activities and officiating games for youth, teens, adults, and/or seniors, while developing knowledge of instructional techniques, rules of play, and program procedures. Positions at this level receive guidance and direction as needed.

Instructor II ? Referee/Umpire: This is the journey-level classification in the series responsible for independently performing instructional and officiating duties across a variety of sports and program areas. Positions at this level exercise judgment and initiative in conducting classes, activities, games, and tournaments, and require minimal supervision.

Instructor III ? Referee/Umpire: This is the intermediate journey-level classification in the series responsible for performing more complex and specialized instructional and officiating duties. Positions at this level require advanced knowledge, skills, and certifications, and exercise a high degree of independent judgment in program delivery and officiating competitive events.

Instructor IV ? Referee/Umpire: This is the advanced-level classification in the series responsible for performing the most difficult and specialized instructional and officiating duties. Positions at this level require extensive experience, advanced certifications, and subject matter expertise, and operate with a high degree of autonomy.

EXAMPLES OF TYPICAL JOB FUNCTIONS (ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY)

Management reserves the right to add, modify, change, or rescind the work assignments of different positions and to make reasonable accommodation so that qualified employees can perform the essential functions of the job.

  • Officiates games and competitions; interprets and enforces rules and regulations; assesses penalties; and ensures fair and safe play.
  • Demonstrates and instructs proper techniques, skills, and methods; provides guidance to promote skill development and safety.
  • Supervises participants during programs and events; maintains control of activities; and monitors conditions to prevent accidents and ensure participant safety and wellbeing.
  • Promotes good sportsmanship, teamwork, and a positive, inclusive environment.
  • Responds to questions, concerns, and complaints from participants and the public; resolves issues within established guidelines or refers to appropriate staff.
  • Inspects facilities, playing areas, and equipment to ensure safety and proper use; reports maintenance or safety concerns.
  • Assists with program setup, breakdown, and general operations.
  • Implements and follows District policies, procedures, and safety protocols, including administering first aid and CPR as necessary.
  • Documents game and/or tournament records and outcomes.
  • Provides effective customer service and maintains positive working relationships with participants, parents, staff, and the public.
  • Attends required trainings and meetings.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

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