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Referee Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

ymcadetroit

Sports Referee Level 1

Southgate, MI · On-site

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Downriver YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

ymcadetroit

Sports Referee Level 1

Southgate, MI

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Downriver YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

ymcadetroit

Sports Referee Level 1

Milford, MI · On-site

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Carl's YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

ymcadetroit

Sports Referee Level 1

Milford, MI · On-site

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Carl's YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

Oakland Schools

Volleyball Referee

Commerce, MI · On-site

Position Type: Community Education/Other Date Posted: 11/17/2025 Location: Clifford H. Smart Middle School Date Available: 11/24/25 District: Walled Lake Consolidated Schools Please see attached

ymcadetroit

Sports Aide

Milford, MI · On-site

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

This includes coaching, refereeing, running the score clock, and running sport samplings or other classes. * Maintain the quality and inventory of the supplies, equipment and materials. * Assists in ...

ymcadetroit

Sports Aide

Southgate, MI · On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

This includes coaching, refereeing, running the score clock, and running sport samplings or other classes. * Maintain the quality and inventory of the supplies, equipment and materials. * Assists in ...

ymcadetroit

Sports Aide

Farmington, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

This includes coaching, refereeing, running the score clock, and running sport samplings or other classes. * Maintain the quality and inventory of the supplies, equipment, and materials. * Assists in ...

ymcadetroit

Sports Aide

Farmington, MI · On-site

$14.25 - $18.50/hr

This includes coaching, refereeing, running the score clock, and running sport samplings or other classes. * Maintain the quality and inventory of the supplies, equipment, and materials. * Assists in ...

ymcadetroit

Sports Aide

Milford, MI

$12.75 - $16.50/hr

This includes coaching, refereeing, running the score clock, and running sport samplings or other classes. * Maintain the quality and inventory of the supplies, equipment and materials. * Assists in ...

ymcadetroit

Sports Aide

Southgate, MI · On-site

$13.50 - $17.50/hr

This includes coaching, refereeing, running the score clock, and running sport samplings or other classes. * Maintain the quality and inventory of the supplies, equipment and materials. * Assists in ...

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All JobsReferee JobsReferee Jobs in Michigan

Referee information

See Michigan salary details

$5

$18

$51

How much do referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for referee in Michigan is $18.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.48 and $19.28 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 Michigan? The most popular types of Referee jobs in Michigan are:
What are popular job titles related to Referee jobs in Michigan? For Referee jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Referee jobs in Michigan look for? The top searched job categories for Referee jobs in Michigan are:
What cities in Michigan are hiring for Referee jobs? Cities in Michigan with the most Referee job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Referee jobs in MI? For Referee jobs in MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Referee job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $37,948 per year, or $18.2 per hour.

Sports Referee Level 1

ymcadetroit

Southgate, MI • On-site

Other

Posted yesterday

Job description

FIND A CAREER THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE
WITH A JOB AT THE Y!

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Downriver YMCA

YMCA Employee Benefits

  • FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Family-friendly Work Environment
  • Employee Assistance Program & Retirement Plan

Position Summary

This position is responsible for officiating games at a basic level, ensuring fair play and safety for all participants. The Sports Referee Level 1 supports the mission of the YMCA by providing a positive and encouraging environment for youth sports activities.

Education/Experience/Training/Certifications

  • Must be 16 years of age or older
  • Basic knowledge of the sport and ability to enforce rules.
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Experience working with children in a supervised setting is preferred.
  • Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

  • Arrives at games at least 15 minutes prior to game start time.
  • Demonstrates and enforces basic rules of the game to players and coaches.
  • Maintains a safe and enjoyable game atmosphere.
  • Stops play when necessary and explains violations in a clear and fair manner.
  • Builds rapport with players, coaches, and parents to foster a supportive community environment.
  • Follows all YMCA policies, rules, regulations, and procedures, including safety protocols.
  • Works effectively with varying age groups and manages small to medium-sized groups.
  • Attends required staff meetings, training sessions, and other YMCA program activities.
  • Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed.

For more opportunities to join our team, please visit the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit's career page (ymcadetroit.org/careers).

Apply