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Referee Jobs in Ohio (NOW HIRING)

Ladgov Corporation

Basketball Referee

Columbus, OH · On-site

Basketball Official (Referee) Location: Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC) Fitness Center 3990 East Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43213 Schedule: * Games are typically held Mondays * Game times are ...

Ladgov Corporation

Basketball Referee

Columbus, OH · On-site

Basketball Official (Referee) Location: Defense Supply Center Columbus (DSCC) Fitness Center 3990 East Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43213 Schedule: * Games are typically held Mondays * Game times are ...

TOCA Football

Soccer Leagues Referee

Richmond, OH · On-site

About TOCA Soccer: At TOCA, we are passionate about people and the power of sport. We believe in creating an environment that becomes the "third home" for our guests - where they learn, where they ...

TOCA Football

Soccer Leagues Referee

Bedford, OH · On-site

$30/hr

About TOCA Soccer: At TOCA, we are passionate about people and the power of sport. We believe in creating an environment that becomes the "third home" for our guests -- where they learn, where they ...

Natures One Inc

Human Resources Manager

Heath, OH · On-site

... refereeing disputes, terminations, and administering disciplinary procedures. · Plans and conducts new team member orientations to foster positive attitude toward organizational objectives. · ...

Natures One Inc

Human Resources Manager

Heath, OH · On-site

... refereeing disputes, terminations, and administering disciplinary procedures. · Plans and conducts new team member orientations to foster positive attitude toward organizational objectives. · ...

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All JobsReferee JobsReferee Jobs in Ohio

Referee information

See Ohio salary details

$5

$19

$55

How much do referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for referee in Ohio is $19.90, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.44 and $21.01 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.
More about Referee jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Referee jobs in Ohio? The most popular types of Referee jobs in Ohio are:
What are popular job titles related to Referee jobs in Ohio? For Referee jobs in Ohio, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Referee jobs in Ohio look for? The top searched job categories for Referee jobs in Ohio are:
What cities in Ohio are hiring for Referee jobs? Cities in Ohio with the most Referee job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Referee jobs in OH? For Referee jobs in OH, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Referee job openings in Ohio as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 55% Full Time, 39% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,392 per year, or $19.9 per hour.

Parks & Rec Flag Football Referee (Grades 3-6)

City of Stow, OH

OH • On-site

$18 - $22/hr

Temporary

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Salary: $18.00 - $22.00 Hourly
Location : City Hall Building, OH
Job Type: Seasonal position
Job Number: 202500049
Department: Parks and Recreation
Division: Parks and Recreation Programs
Opening Date: 07/22/2026
Closing Date: 8/17/2026 11:59 PM Eastern
Position Title
Flag Football Referee (Grades 3-6)
Position Type: Seasonal, Part-Time Pay Rate: $18 - $22 per hour
Season: Saturdays, September 19 - November 7
Location: Stow Lakeview Stadium and Stow-Munroe Falls High School Stadium
Position Summary
The Stow Parks & Recreation Department is seeking enthusiastic and dependable individuals to serve as referees for its youth Flag Football League for students in grades 3-6. Referees play an important role in creating a safe, fun, and positive environment while ensuring games are conducted fairly and according to league rules.
Essential Functions
• Officiate youth flag football games for participants in grades 3-6.
• Enforce league rules consistently and fairly.
• Ensure player safety throughout each game.
• Start and manage games on schedule.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with coaches, players, parents, and Parks & Recreation staff.
• Make quick, impartial decisions during game play.
• Help foster good sportsmanship and positive behavior among players and spectators.
• Report any injuries, incidents, or concerns to league staff.
• Assist with basic game setup and cleanup as needed.
Qualifications
• Knowledge of flag football rules (youth officiating experience preferred but not required).
• Ability to remain calm, confident, and impartial in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and conflict resolution skills.
• Dependable, punctual, and professional.
• Ability to stand, walk, jog, and remain active throughout multiple games.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
Interested applicants with questions about the position should contact Anne Baranek at (330) 689-5152.
This position is not eligible for benefits.

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