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Referee Jobs in Tennessee (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

Youth Volleyball Referee

Chattanooga, TN

$14/hr

We are looking for referees who are available Monday-Friday from 8am-4pm. Responsibilities: * Officiate games according to YMCA rules * Build relationships with coaches * Secure volunteers to assist ...

YMCA

Youth Volleyball Referee

Chattanooga, TN · On-site

$14/hr

We are looking for referees who are available Monday-Friday from 8am-4pm. Responsibilities: * Officiate games according to YMCA rules * Build relationships with coaches * Secure volunteers to assist ...

Emerald

Volleyball Referees

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$25/hr

We're glad you're considering applying to become an Emerald Youth Volleyball Referee. Since 1991, Emerald Youth Foundation has worked to support Knoxville's youth and prepare generations of Godly ...

Nashville Predators

Part-Time - Referee

Nashville, TN · On-site

Referee (Part-Time) Location: Centennial Ice Rink Job Reports To: Facility Operations Manager Status: Non-Exempt Major Responsibilities/Activities: * Referee and Officials control the pace and ...

i9 Sports

Soccer Referee

Clarksville, TN · On-site

$150/day

Benefits: * Company parties * Competitive salary * Free uniforms Benefits/Perks A team-based atmosphere with a focus on Fun! Impact the lives of young athletes Online training opportunities Company ...

HAN Staff

Patient Services Rep - Clinic

Murfreesboro, TN · On-site

$16/hr

Referral Rewards - Receive referral bonuses for eligible healthcare professionals you refer .($400 referrer / $100 referee) * Personalized Support - Work with a dedicated recruiter committed to your ...

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Referee information

See Tennessee salary details

$5

$18

$53

How much do referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for referee in Tennessee is $19.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.91 and $20.10 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 Tennessee?

The most popular types of Referee jobs in Tennessee are:

What are popular job titles related to Referee jobs in Tennessee?

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

What job categories do people searching Referee jobs in Tennessee look for?

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

What cities in Tennessee are hiring for Referee jobs?

Cities in Tennessee with the most Referee job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Referee jobs in TN?

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

Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Referee job openings in Tennessee as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 58% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $39,517 per year, or $19 per hour.

Youth Basketball Referee - Hamilton Y

YMCA

Chattanooga, TN

$14/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

YMCA rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 1,987 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

571st of 772 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Are you passionate about basketball and creating a safe, fun, and structured environment for young athletes? If so, we have an opening for a highly skilled and motivated Youth Basketball Referee at the Hamilton Family YMCA.

We are seeking referees who are available for shifts Monday-Friday from 8am-4pm.

Responsibilities:

  • Officiate games according to YMCA rules
  • Build relationships with coaches
  • Secure volunteers to assist with timekeeping and bookkeeping
  • Ensure games start on time and begin with prayer
  • Discuss and clarify rules for coaches and players when necessary
  • Report any problems or incidents to supervisor and handle issues within YMCA guidelines
  • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

  • Minimum age of 15
  • Familiarity with YMCA rules for the specific sport
  • Must attend YMCA referee training
  • Must complete New Employee Orientation within first week of hire
  • Previous referee experience preferred
  • Previous experience playing basketball preferred

Physical Demands:

The role requires sufficient strength, agility, and mobility to perform essential functions and supervise program activities in various indoor and outdoor locations and temperatures.

Perks:

  • Free Y Membership

A BETTER US STARTS WITH U!
Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively impacts people's lives. We are seeking to add new members to our team who are motivated and committed to serving others. Whether you are experienced or not, we will provide the resources and training needed for you to grow and succeed. If you want more than just a job - if you're looking to discover a sense of purpose and opportunities to contribute to the greater good - then the Y is the place for you. Join us!

Education:no requirementsEmployment Type: PART_TIME

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