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Referee Jobs in Nebraska (NOW HIRING)

Hennessy & Roach, P.C.

Attorney

Omaha, NE · On-site

... judge or referee Represent the interests of the employer or insurer at hearings, trials, depositions, oral arguments, mediations, arbitrations and other proceedings Communicate with claims ...

Columbus YMCA

Assistant Sports Director

Columbus, NE

$16.83 - $19.23/hr

Support the recruitment, hiring, training, scheduling, and supervision of part-time staff, including referees, scorekeepers, coaches, and instructors. * Provide on-site leadership and guidance during ...

Streck, LLC

Distribution Clerk 1

La Vista, NE · On-site

$14.75 - $18/hr

Pack and ship orders - including standing orders, daily orders, international shipments, private label, promotional samples, and referee samples - following established work instructions. * Pull and ...

Streck, LLC

Distribution Clerk 1

La Vista, NE

$14.75 - $18/hr

Pack and ship orders - including standing orders, daily orders, international shipments, private label, promotional samples, and referee samples - following established work instructions. * Pull and ...

All JobsReferee JobsReferee Jobs in Nebraska

Referee information

See Nebraska salary details

$5

$19

$55

How much do referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for referee in Nebraska is $19.96, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.44 and $21.11 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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For Referee jobs in Nebraska, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Referee jobs in Nebraska are:

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Cities in Nebraska with the most Referee job openings:

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

Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Referee job openings in Nebraska as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 57% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $41,512 per year, or $20 per hour.

Blair Family YMCA - Sports Official/Referee

Ymca of Greater Omaha

Blair, NE • On-site

$12.12 - $20.38/hr

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY:

This position supports the work of the Y, a leading nonprofit committed to strengthening community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Sports Officials impact the lives of youth and families through implementing the rules, direct care, organization, supervision and well-being of participants in the sports activity.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

1. Creates a positive environment for all participants, ensuring growth and development.

2. Builds relationships among participants and spectators to pro-actively gain and retain members.

3. Exemplifies appropriate behavior at all times. Acts as a role model for participants and spectators.

4. Understands and implements rules of assigned sport, focusing on participant experience and safety at all times.

5. Provides interpretation and demonstration to all participants, including those with special needs.

6. Actively participates in department meetings and trainings.

YMCA COMPETENCIES (Leader):

Communication & Influence

Inclusion

Functional Expertise

Emotional Maturity

QUALIFICATIONS:

1. At least 16 years of age

2. Ability to work with participants of various ages with a focus on youth

3. Knowledge of the game being officiated and previous officiating and/or trainings a plus

4. Demonstrated maturity, sound judgment and strong sense of responsibility

5. Complete before first shift: program-specific training

6. Complete before first shift: YMCA sports official/referee training

7. Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community and successful clearance of background check

WORK ENVIRONMENT & PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• Indoor/outdoor environment, regular walking and running required.

• Sufficient strength, agility and mobility to perform essential functions required.

• Reliable transportation and on-site, regular weekend schedule required.


The YMCA of Greater Omaha is an Equal Opportunity Employer