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Referee Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Benefits/Perks * A team-based atmosphere with a focus on Fun! * Be a role model for athletes * Online training opportunities Company Overview i9 Sports offers youth sports leagues, camps, and clinics ...

Soccer Official

Springfield, VA · On-site

$15 - $25/hr

Benefits/Perks * A team-based atmosphere with a focus on Fun! * Be a role model for athletes * Online training opportunities Company Overview Founded in Tampa, Florida, i9 Sports ® is the nation ...

Benefits/Perks * A team-based atmosphere with a focus on Fun! * Be a role model for athletes * Online training opportunities Company Overview i9 Sports offers youth sports leagues, camps, and clinics ...

Benefits/Perks * A team-based atmosphere with a focus on Fun! * Be a role model for athletes * Online training opportunities Company Overview i9 Sports offers youth sports leagues, camps, and clinics ...

Benefits/Perks * A team-based atmosphere with a focus on Fun! * Be a role model for athletes * Online training opportunities Company Overview i9 Sports offers youth sports leagues, camps, and clinics ...

Referee games on small-sided fields to ensure player safety and enforcement of game rules for each sport Qualifications * Excellent communication skills * Sport-specific coaching experience and ...

Referee games on small-sided fields to ensure player safety and enforcement of game rules for each sport Qualifications * Excellent communication skills * Sport-specific coaching experience and ...

Referee games on small-sided fields to ensure player safety and enforcement of game rules for each sport Qualifications * Excellent communication skills * Sport-specific coaching experience and ...

Shift Leader

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$13.50 - $16.50/hr

Referred EmployeesMust Be in Good Standing & Referee must be employed with Smashburger attime of payout. Bonus is paid in two distributions Shift LeaderResponsibilities * Reporting to the Restaurant ...

Shift Leader

Gainesville, VA · On-site

$13.50 - $16.75/hr

Referred EmployeesMust Be in Good Standing & Referee must be employed with Smashburger attime of payout. Bonus is paid in two distributions Shift LeaderResponsibilities * Reporting to the Restaurant ...

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Referee information

See Virginia salary details

$6

$20

$58

How much do referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for referee in Virginia is $20.75, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.92 and $21.92 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 do you do to become a referee?

To become a referee, you typically need to complete training and obtain certification from a recognized sports or officiating organization. This often involves passing written exams, attending practical training sessions, and gaining experience through officiating lower-level games before advancing to higher levels.

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 does a 14 year old ref get paid?

A 14-year-old referee typically earns between $10 and $20 per game, depending on the league, location, and level of competition. Payment may vary based on experience, certifications, and the organization’s pay structure.

How much do refs get paid?

Referees' pay varies depending on the level of competition and the sport. For example, youth sports referees may earn $10 to $30 per game, while professional referees can earn thousands of dollars annually, often supplemented by per-game fees, stipends, or contracts. Certification and experience influence earning potential in this role.

What is the highest paying referee job?

The highest paying referee jobs are typically in professional sports leagues, such as Major League Baseball, the NFL, or the NBA, where referees can earn six-figure salaries. These positions often require extensive experience, specialized training, and certification, and they may involve irregular schedules and high-pressure environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Referee jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Referee jobs in Virginia are:
What are popular job titles related to Referee jobs in Virginia? For Referee jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Referee jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Referee job openings:
What are popular job titles related to Referee jobs in VA? For Referee jobs in VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
Infographic showing various Referee job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 70% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,166 per year, or $20.8 per hour.

Sports Official - (Basketball & Soccer)

YOUNG MENS CHRISTIAN ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH HAMPTON

Virginia Beach, VA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 23 days ago


Job description

Description:

Imagine going to work knowing that what you do each day positively influences the health

and well-being of children, adults and families in your community. Working at the YMCA

you’ll discover more than a job – you will have the opportunity to make a lasting difference

in the community.


OUR CULTURE:

Our mission and core values are brought to life by our culture. In the Y, we strive to live our

cause of strengthening communities with purpose and intentionality every day. We are

welcoming: we are open to all. We are a place where you can belong and become. We are

genuine: we value you and embrace your individuality. We are hopeful: we believe in you

and your potential to become a catalyst in the world. We are nurturing: we support you in

your journey to develop your full potential. We are determined: above all else, we are on

a relentless quest to make our community stronger beginning with you.


POSITION SUMMARY:

The Sports Official assists the Regional Sports Director in providing exemplary service to

members and participants by officiating designated games. The Sports Official manages the

floor, table, players, coaches, and spectators and is expected to provide knowledge for the

rules of the game as well as structure for players. The Sports Official is approachable and

dedicated to providing participants with the most enjoyable experience possible and

incorporates the values of honesty, respect, caring, faith and responsibility into the daily

functions of the YMCA.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

  1. Arrives on time in appropriate attire, wearing staff shirt, name tag, and with a sports whistle
  2. Sets up and breaks down gym in a timely manner
  3. Ensures that games begin and end at scheduled times
  4. Understands and communicates the safety of players, coaches and parents is of utmost concern
  5. Administer rules for the appropriate sport and communicate YMCA sports philosophy and policy
  6. Shows up at scheduled time in order to make sure the equipment and entire playing surface is clean and safe before play (removing any possible hazards) and the coaches are ready to start on time
  7. Build relationships with players, coaches, and parents by interacting with them before, during, and after each game
  8. Start and end each game on time
  9. Communicate violations and explain to players and coaches why the violation was called in a positive manner
  10. Assist with the transition between games to allow for ample warm-up time for each team.
  11. Supervises coaches and participants at game sites
  12. Responds to injuries through administering first aid and proper reporting
  13. Settling on-field and on-court rule protests and disputes
  14. Monitors on and off-site activities and enforces rules and regulations
  15. Obtains feedback from players & spectators regarding their participation in the program
  16. Ensures all areas of responsibility are clean and free of potential safety risks
  17. Be enthusiastic, positive, and motivating to all members and participants
  18. Promotes the YMCA mission, vision, and character development
  19. Actively participates in annual fundraising campaigns
  20. Attends center and association meetings as appropriate and directed by supervisor
  21. Works to increase participation and retention of members/participants
  22. The development and maintenance of good staff/volunteer relations
  23. Assists with other duties as requested
Requirements:

QUALIFICATIONS:

  1. Minimum of 18 years of age
  2. Must have at least 1-3 years of officiating experience
  3. Nationally Recognized Certification
  4. Experience working with children in a supervised setting, preferred
  5. Certification in CPR/First Aid/AED/O2
  6. A professional, clean appearance and great attitude
  7. Strong customer service, organizational and communication skills
  8. Attention to details, accuracy and deadlines


YMCA LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES (Leader):

  • Engaging Community
  • Communication & Influence
  • Emotional Maturity
  • Critical Thinking & Decision Making


WORKING CONDITIONS:

  • Requires a person of maturity and good judgment, who can operate with a minimum of guidance from the appropriate Director
  • Requires ability to exercise appropriate independent judgment, to assess facts and issues, and make non-routine decisions regarding day-to-day operational problems and issues
  • Be physically present in the program. This requires most weekend and evening hours
  • Requires effective team-building and team-leadership skills
  • Must maintain cooperative, functional relationships with senior leadership team, peers, and subordinates
  • Must maintain a positive, energetic attitude toward YMCA work, goals, and values
  • Perform the duties of direct reports as needed
  • High energy from spectators, players, and coaches due to regular sporting activities. Including frustration, anger, and various conflicting emotions


ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS, PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

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.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is frequently required to:

  • May be required to walk, stand, run, kneel, climb and stoop
  • Must be able to sit on the floor and get back up
  • Continuous operations requiring attention to detail and multi-tasking
  • Must be able to lift, pull and pull up to 50 pounds
  • Must be able to stand or sit for long periods of time
  • Must be physically able to successfully complete required certifications


BACKGROUND CHECKS:

An offer of employment is contingent upon receipt of satisfactory results to meet minimum

requirements of the position. They may include criminal background and reference checks,

E-Verify, drug test, driver’s license record, and/or a Child Protective Services Check (CPS).

Additional driver’s license check, CPS, criminal background check, alcohol, and/or drug

testing may be required to be processed in the future in order to meet and/or maintain the

requirements of this position