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Referee Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

GOTO PLEX

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 ...

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

$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 ...

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 ...

Town of Mammoth Lakes, CA

Referee - Ice Hockey

CA · On-site

$43 - $47/hr

Referees are responsible for officiating adult co-ed and youth ice hockey games. If you have a passion for the sport of hockey, you're looking for some extra work, and want to join a team of ...

Life Time

Ultimate Hoops Referee

Irvine, CA

$60/hr

Position Summary The Sports Referee assists in the execution of LT Sport league play by officiating league games. They work closely with Sports League Coordinators and players to ensure a respectful ...

Life Time, Inc.

Ultimate Hoops Referee

Irvine, CA · On-site

$60/hr

Position Summary The Sports Referee assists in the execution of LT Sport league play by officiating league games. They work closely with Sports League Coordinators and players to ensure a respectful ...

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

Referee Official

YMCA of Superior California

Oroville, CA • On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago

Job description

Overview

Under the supervision of the Youth Sports Program Director facilitate the growth of a team through explanations of calls made, to encourage children to play as a team. To help players have fun, learn skills; discuss fair play, team work and sportsmanship. 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. 

Responsibilities
  • Actively participate in official's meetings and trainings prior to the start of the season
  • Have a thorough knowledge of the rules and officiating practices for the assigned sport
  • Ensure high program quality for assigned gym with impartial and consistent officiating by your team, keeping games on time, and fun
  • Assure the attainment of YMCA program goals by treating players, coaches, and parents with respect
  • Complete and turn in required documentation in a timely manner, including checklist of responsibilties, game score sheets, and accident reports 
  • Be a good role model to players and others
  • All other duties as assigned by your supervisor 
Qualifications
  • High School Student or High School Graduate
  • A minimum of two-years of experience as a player in the sport they are refereeing
  • Current certification in Standard First Aid, CPR
Benefits
  • Competitive compensation
  • Comprehensive health benefits - Medical, Dental, Vision for full-time employees - 60% YMCA covered medical benefits for full-time employees and their families
  • Retirement benefits - 10% employer contribution after completion of eligibility requirements
  • Employee Assistance Program for all employees that is available to help employees overcome emotional, family, or other personal problems; offers guidance on financial and legal issues; improves health and wellness, and much more. 
  • CPR/First Aid Certification provided by YMCA
  • Use of YMCA of Superior California Fitness facilities, camps, and rental facilities
  • Paid time off benefits for part-time and full-time employees upon completion of eligibility requirements
  • Training and staff development for all employees
Posted Salary RangeUSD $20.00 - USD $22.00 /Hr.Employment Type: PART_TIME

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