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Referee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Channel Islands YMCA

REFEREE

Solvang, CA

$17.51 - $18.51/hr

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game * Develop player's through teaching moments during the games * Start all ...

Channel Islands YMCA

REFEREE

Ventura, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $19.50/hr

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game * Develop player's through teaching moments during the games * Start all ...

City of South Lake Tahoe

Referee

South Lake Tahoe, CA · On-site

$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 - ...

CHANNEL ISLANDS YOUNG MENS CHRISTIA

REFEREE

Ventura, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $19.50/hr

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game * Develop player's through teaching moments during the games * Start all ...

Channel Islands YMCA

REFEREE

Ventura, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $19.50/hr

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game * Develop player's through teaching moments during the games * Start all ...

CHANNEL ISLANDS YOUNG MENS CHRISTIA

REFEREE

Ventura, CA · On-site

$17.50 - $19.50/hr

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game * Develop player's through teaching moments during the games * Start all ...

CHANNEL ISLANDS YOUNG MENS CHRISTIA

REFEREE

Solvang, CA · On-site

$17.51 - $18.51/hr

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game * Develop player's through teaching moments during the games * Start all ...

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 ...

THE PLEX LLC

Hockey Referee

San Jose, CA

$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 ...

YMCA of Superior California

Referee Official

Oroville, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The referee is in charge of the safety of the players on the field or court. Officiates at games aacording to league and YMCA guidelines. * Actively participate in official's meetings and trainings ...

Channel Islands YMCA

REFEREE - BASKETBALL

Ventura, CA · On-site

$17.51 - $19.50/hr

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game * Develop player's through teaching moments during the games * Start all ...

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 ...

Channel Islands YMCA

SOCCER REFEREE

Santa Barbara, CA · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game * Develop player's through teaching moments during the games * Start all ...

YMCA of Superior California

Referee Official

Oroville, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The referee is in charge of the safety of the players on the field or court. Officiates at games aacording to league and YMCA guidelines. * Actively participate in official's meetings and trainings ...

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Referee information

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How much do referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 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 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 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 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.

Are referees in high demand?

Referees are generally in steady demand, especially in sports leagues, schools, and recreational organizations. Opportunities can vary based on the sport, level of competition, and region, with certifications often required to qualify for paid positions.

Can you make a living being a referee?

Referees can make a living depending on the level of competition, experience, and the sport. Professional referees in major leagues or tournaments often earn a full-time income, while amateur or youth referees typically supplement their income with other jobs. Certification and consistent scheduling are important for career advancement and earning potential.
More about Referee jobs

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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:

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Cities in California with the most Referee job openings:

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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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, and 43% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,969 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

REFEREE

Solvang, CA

Channel Islands YMCA
Fitness and Sports Centers • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Channel Islands YMCAexternal

$17.51 - $18.51/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

BENEFITS THAT BENEFIT YOU

  • FREE YMCA Family Gym Membership and Program Discounts
  • Education Assistance Program Up To $1,500 per year
  • YMCA Retirement Fund
  • Paid Sick Leave
  • Flexible Schedule

What does a Referee do?

  • Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety
  • Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game
  • Develop player's through teaching moments during the games
  • Start all games on time
  • Support, encourage, and develop all player's in the Y league
  • Set up and clean up for game space
  • Managing and supporting coaches, while keeping an eye on proper sportsmanship and coaching styles
  • Welcoming families, coaches, and players to game days
  • Address safety concerns for spectators and players
  • Assist in coach recruitment and training
  • Attend meetings/ trainings during each season
  • Respond to emergency situations in accordance with YMCA policy and procedures. Complete incident reporting
  • Provides exceptional customer service and fosters connections with members

Our Commitment to Belonging

At the Channel Islands YMCA, we are committed to building bridges within our communities. We aspire to create spaces, experiences, and a culture where all people belong and feel connected.

  • Must be at least 16 years old
  • Ability to obtain a criminal record clearance, if over 18 years old
  • High School Diploma or equivalent; valid work permit required if a minor
  • Previous related experience preferred
  • Complete required certifications within 60 days of hire
  • Complete all required Branch and Position specific trainings as required within two weeks of hire

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