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Referee Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

YMCA of Greater Boston

Referee

Brighton, MA

Referees will also be required to maintain these certifications by attending all necessary trainings. * An IAABO Certified Basketball official with at least 2 yrs experience (must show proof)

YMCA of Greater Boston

Referee

Brighton, MA

$40/hr

Referees will also be required to maintain these certifications by attending all necessary trainings. An IAABO Certified Basketball official with at least 2 yrs experience (must show proof) Knowledge ...

YMCA of Greater Boston

Basketball Referee

Reading, MA

$40 - $42/hr

Referees will also be required to maintain these certifications by attending all necessary trainings. An IAABO Certified Basketball official with at least 2 yrs experience (must show proof) Knowledge ...

Town of Lexington

Volunteer

Lexington, MA

Volunteer as a coach, referee, or scorekeeper. Therapeutic Recreation: Volunteers with Therapeutic Recreation may work in a variety of program settings. The volunteers role may be to assist with ...

Town of Lexington

Volunteer

Lexington, MA · On-site

Volunteer as a coach, referee, or scorekeeper. Therapeutic Recreation: Volunteers with Therapeutic Recreation may work in a variety of program settings. The volunteers role may be to assist with ...

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Referee information

See Boston, MA salary details

$6

$22

$63

How much do referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for referee in Boston, MA is $22.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $24.09 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 Boston, MA? The most popular types of Referee jobs in Boston, MA are:
What are popular job titles related to Referee jobs in Boston, MA? For Referee jobs in Boston, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Referee jobs in Boston, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Referee jobs in Boston, MA are:
What cities near Boston, MA are hiring for Referee jobs? Cities near Boston, MA with the most Referee job openings:
Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Referee job openings in Boston, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 50% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $47,439 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Referee

YMCA of Greater Boston

Brighton, MA

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

YMCA Of Greater Boston rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 8 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

628th of 771 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Description
Enforce and demonstrate a strong knowledge of all the rules of the YMCA Basketball League. The league rules are High School Rules with a few modifications. Work 2-4 games in any given night that you are assigned to work.
Pay:  $40 per hour/per game
Job Description: 

• Work score, stat sheets and scoreboard if needed
 • Arrive 15 minutes before schedule time
 • Receives and follows detailed instructions
 • Must be capable of working under pressure
 • Ability to resolve conflicts in a professional and tactful manner
 • Assist with the set-up of the gym before games and the cleanup
 • Ensure a safe and positive experience
 • Work closely with the league coordinator to ensure the league runs smoothly

 

Key Responsibilities
Job Requirements:

•Must be at least 21 years old
 • High School Diploma or GED
  • Obtain CPR and First Aide Certification within 90 days of employment.  Referees will also be required to maintain these certifications by attending all necessary trainings. 
 • An IAABO Certified Basketball official with at least 2 yrs experience (must show proof)
 • Knowledge of the High School Basketball rules of the State of Massachusetts
 • Be able to work Score, Stat sheets and a scoreboard if asked

Benefits
Why work at the Y? 
The YMCA of Greater Boston is an incredible place to have a fulfilling career or enjoy part-time employment — all while we are supporting and strengthening our communities, because our community is our cause. When you join us in your career here, you can look forward to:  
  • Developing your leadership skills in a caring, challenging & diverse working environment. 
  • Exploring a wide range of opportunities as you learn new skills and functions. 
  • Shaping the future of young children while making a difference each day for our communities and each other. 
  • Engaging in YMCA career training programs and working alongside those who have the same passion. 
  • A healthy work/life balance 
  • Comprehensive benefits including: 
  • FREE YMCA Membership for you. 
  • Discount on Specialty Programs like Personal Training and Swimming Lessons. 
  • Discounted or FREE family membership. 
  • Robust Retirement Plan up to 10%. (see eligibility requirement) 
  • Health, Dental, and Vision Benefit Package. 
  • Vacation and Sick Time (PT receive sick time) 

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