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Referee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Ripken Baseball, Inc.

Football Referee

Manteca, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Football Referee Entity: Big League Dreams Manteca Reports to: General Manager Pay Rate: $20-25 per 45 minute game Location: Manteca, CA Anticipated Start Date: Immediately Availability: Part Time ...

City of South Lake Tahoe

Referee

South Lake Tahoe, CA

$20.27 - $25.87/hr

Description The City of South Lake Tahoe is currently seeking referees to assist with the following leagues. The estimated hours are 24 - 32 hours per league. Youth Basketball Saturdays March 1 - ...

City of South Lake Tahoe, CA

Referee

South Lake Tahoe, CA · On-site

$20.27 - $25.87/hr

Continuous Description The City of South Lake Tahoe is currently seeking referees to assist with the following leagues. The estimated hours are 24 - 32 hours per league. Youth Basketball Saturdays ...

Ripken Baseball, Inc.

Soccer Referee

Manteca, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Soccer Referee is responsible for enforcing the rules of the game during matches in a fair, consistent, and professional manner. This role is located at our Big League Dreams Manteca location and ...

THE PLEX LLC

Hockey Referee

San Jose, CA · On-site

$18.45 - $20/hr

We are looking for a Hockey Referee who will be responsible for ensuring fair play, safety, and adherence to the rules of the game during hockey matches. They are responsible for making impartial ...

GOTO PLEX

Hockey Referee

San Jose, CA · On-site

$18.45 - $20/hr

We are looking for a Hockey Referee who will be responsible for ensuring fair play, safety, and adherence to the rules of the game during hockey matches. They are responsible for making impartial ...

Sofive

Sports Associate Referee

Covina, CA · On-site

$20/hr

Position: Sport Associate Soccer Referee Job Overview: Join our dynamic team at Sofive Soccer Centers as a Sport Associate Soccer Referee. In this role, you will officiate in our leagues and ...

HSP & Companies

SC Village Chino Referee

Chino, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Referee (Paintball and Airsoft Park) Location: SC Village Paintball and Airsoft Park Chino// 8900 McCarty rd. Chino CA 91710 Department: Field Operations Employment Type: Part-Time / Weekend Pay: $16 ...

Beach City Life

Football Referee

Huntington Beach, CA

$25 - $30/hr

Each game has one referee and pays 25 dollars per game. Contact me if you are interested and we can set up an interview. Company Description We are an adult sports and social club that provides ...

THE PLEX LLC

Soccer Referee

San Jose, CA · On-site

$24.32 - $28.42/hr

Under direct supervision, the Soccer Referee is responsible for ensuring fair play, safety, and adherence to the rules of the game during soccer games. They are responsible for making impartial ...

Beach City Life

Football Referee

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Each game has one referee and pays 25 dollars per game. Contact me if you are interested and we can set up an interview. Company Description We are an adult sports and social club that provides ...

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Referee information

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How much do referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for referee in California is $20.66, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.88 and $21.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is a Referee?

A referee is an official who monitors a sport, such as football games, on the field of play to enforce rules, determine scores, and ensure fair play. Referees can be found at all levels of competition, beginning at the youth recreational level all the way up to the college and professional leagues. As a referee, your job duties also include monitoring player safety, assessing penalties for rules infractions, and keeping up with the amount of game time left to play in the match. You often work with a team of other officials to cover the entire field of play.

What qualifications do I need to become a referee?

To become a referee, you typically need to complete a certification or training course approved by the relevant sports or governing body, which covers rules, safety, and officiating techniques. Some positions may require a minimum age, good physical fitness, and knowledge of the sport's rules, with ongoing education or recertification often necessary to maintain qualification.

How to get hired as a referee?

To get hired as a referee, you typically need to obtain relevant certifications or training from a recognized sports organization, gain experience through volunteering or officiating smaller games, and demonstrate good communication and decision-making skills. Employers often look for a clean background check and a good understanding of the rules of the sport. Applying to local leagues, sports clubs, or officiating agencies is also common.

What is the difference between Referee vs Umpire?

AspectRefereeUmpire
CredentialsOften requires certification or training specific to the sportTypically requires sport-specific training and certification
Work EnvironmentOn-field, active participation in sports eventsOn-field or behind-the-scenes, depending on sport
Industry UsageCommonly used in sports like soccer, basketball, and hockeyUsed in sports like baseball, cricket, and tennis
Search & ComparisonOften searched by those interested in sports officiating rolesCompared for different sports officiating roles

While both referees and umpires officiate sports, referees generally oversee the entire game and make final decisions, whereas umpires focus on specific aspects or areas of play. Understanding these differences helps clarify job roles in various sports industries.

What are some common challenges referees face during high-stakes games, and how can they handle them effectively?

Referees often encounter intense pressure during high-stakes games, including dealing with passionate players, coaches, and fans, as well as making split-second decisions that can impact the outcome. Maintaining composure and clear communication is essential to manage on-field conflicts and ensure fair play. Referees can handle these challenges by staying up-to-date with rule changes, participating in regular training, and developing strong conflict resolution skills. Building rapport with teams and relying on support from officiating colleagues also helps manage stressful situations more effectively.

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

To thrive as a Referee, you need a deep understanding of the sport’s rules, quick decision-making abilities, and often certification from a recognized officiating body. Familiarity with scorekeeping systems, video review technology, and communication devices is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, assertiveness, and composure under pressure help referees manage players, coaches, and high-stakes situations. These competencies are crucial for ensuring fair play, maintaining order, and upholding the integrity of the game.

What are referees?

Referees are officials responsible for enforcing the rules and maintaining order during sporting events. They make decisions on plays, resolve disputes between players or teams, and ensure fair play. Referees use their knowledge of the game and quick judgment to keep competitions safe and fair for all participants. Their role is crucial in upholding the integrity of sports.

How much do refs get paid?

Referees' pay varies depending on the level of competition and location. For example, youth sports referees may earn $10 to $30 per game, while high school and college referees can earn $50 to $200 per game or more. Certification and experience often influence pay rates, and referees typically work on a part-time basis with flexible schedules.

What is the highest paying referee job?

The highest paying referee jobs are typically in professional sports leagues, such as the National Football League (NFL), Major League Baseball (MLB), or the National Basketball Association (NBA), where referees can earn six-figure salaries. These positions often require extensive experience, certification, and the ability to officiate at the highest competitive levels. Pay varies based on league, experience, and game frequency.
More about Referee jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Referee jobs in California? The most popular types of Referee jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Referee jobs in California? For Referee jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Referee jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Referee jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Referee jobs? Cities in California with the most Referee job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Referee jobs in CA? For Referee jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Referee job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,969 per year, or $20.7 per hour.
Football Referee

Football Referee

Ripken Baseball, Inc.

Manteca, CA • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Job Title: Football Referee
Entity: Big League Dreams Manteca
Reports to: General Manager
Pay Rate: $20-25 per 45 minute game
Location: Manteca, CA
Anticipated Start Date: Immediately
Availability: Part Time
Job Summary:
The Football Referee is responsible for enforcing the rules of the game during matches in a fair, consistent, and professional manner.
This role is located at our Big League Dreams Manteca location and requires a strong knowledge of the Laws of the Game, quick decision-making, excellent communication, and the ability to manage players, coaches, and game flow effectively.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Officiate football games by enforcing league-specific regulations
  • Start and end games on time, ensuring the correct length for each game
  • Make calls on the fields
  • Manage on-field behavior and resolve disputes in a calm, authoritative manner
  • Work alongside assistant referees (if applicable) to ensure accurate calls
  • Inspect field conditions and equipment before and during the game
  • 3 - 5 games per night are available

Requirements:
  • 1 year of referee experience necessary
  • In-depth knowledge of the Rules of the Game
  • Strong verbal communication and conflict resolution skills
  • Ability to remain neutral and composed under pressure

Working Conditions:
  • Outdoor work in varying weather conditions
  • Must be available for evenings and weekends

#BLD #US #TWparttime

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