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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 ...

Channel Islands YMCA

REFEREE

Solvang, CA · On-site

$17.51 - $18.51/hr

  • Retirement

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

Solvang, CA · On-site

$17.51 - $18.51/hr

  • Retirement

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 ...

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

$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 Metropolitan L.A.

Referee (4132)

Hollywood, CA · On-site

$18.47 - $20/hr

Referees are expected to promote teamwork, confidence, and physical activity in a safe, supportive environment while enforcing YMCA rules and regulations. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Officiates games in ...

YMCA of Metropolitan L.A.

Referee (4137)

Montebello, CA · On-site

$18.47 - $20/hr

Referees are expected to promote teamwork, confidence, and physical activity in a safe, supportive environment while enforcing YMCA rules and regulations. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Officiates games in ...

YMCA of Metropolitan L.A.

Referee (4142)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18.47 - $20/hr

Referees are expected to promote teamwork, confidence, and physical activity in a safe, supportive environment while enforcing YMCA rules and regulations. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Officiates games in ...

YMCA of Superior California

Referee Official

Oroville, CA · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 ...

YMCA of Metropolitan L.A.

Referee (4141)

Maywood, CA · On-site

$18.47 - $20/hr

Referees are expected to promote teamwork, confidence, and physical activity in a safe, supportive environment while enforcing YMCA rules and regulations. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Officiates games in ...

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 ...

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All JobsReferee JobsReferee Jobs in California

Referee information

See California salary details

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How much do referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 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 moderate demand, especially in sports with large audiences or youth leagues. Opportunities can vary based on the sport, level of competition, and geographic location, with some areas experiencing more openings due to seasonal needs or retirements. Certification and experience can also influence job availability and earning potential.

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 sports like football, basketball, or soccer often earn a full-time income, while amateur or youth referees typically supplement their income with other jobs. Certification and consistent scheduling are important factors in earning a sustainable income as a referee.

How do you get a job as a referee?

To become a referee, you typically need to complete relevant training or certification courses offered by sports organizations, pass a background check, and gain experience through officiating local games. Many referees start at youth or amateur levels before advancing to higher competitions. Strong knowledge of the sport's rules and good decision-making skills are essential.
More about Referee jobs

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For Referee jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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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 10% Full Time, 70% Part Time, 15% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,969 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Football Referee

Ripken Baseball, Inc.

Manteca, CA • On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 26 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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