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Referee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Position Type: Recreation/Referee Date Posted: 2/24/2021Hiring Range: $15.00/game For more information regarding Athletics positions, please contact Tammy McMahon via email at tmcmahon@newlenoxparks ...

Seeking a dynamic and committed Youth Referee to supervise competitive and non-competitive activities and enforce the rules of various sports activities. Creates a safe and positive atmosphere that ...

New

Avery Soccer Referee

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Seeking a dynamic and committed Youth Referee to supervise competitive and non-competitive activities and enforce the rules of various sports activities. Creates a safe and positive atmosphere that ...

Youth Soccer Referee

Wilmette, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Referees are paid on a per-game basis. This is a PT 3 position, with the benefits listed below SUPERVISORY DUTIES: * None ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: * Create a safe, engaging environment ...

Referee

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Join the Northbrook Park District as a Referee and help create a fun, safe, and positive environment for athletes of all ages. We are looking for dependable individuals with a passion for sports and ...

Referee

Northbrook, IL · On-site

$16 - $18/hr

Join the Northbrook Park District as a Referee and help create a fun, safe, and positive environment for athletes of all ages. We are looking for dependable individuals with a passion for sports and ...

You'll lead practices, referee games, ensure fun, and be a role model while keeping safety first. Saturdays (daytime) & Sunday mornings. Humboldt Park & West Loop locations in Chicago. Why You'll ...

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 ...

Soccer League Referee

Evanston, IL · On-site

$25 - $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 ...

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Referee information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$6

$21

$60

How much do referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for referee in Chicago, IL is $21.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.40 and $22.79 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.
What are the most commonly searched types of Referee jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Referee jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What are popular job titles related to Referee jobs in Chicago, IL? For Referee jobs in Chicago, IL, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Referee jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Referee job openings:
Infographic showing various Referee job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 36% Part Time, 3% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $44,887 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Position Type:
Recreation/Referee
Date Posted:
2/24/2021Hiring Range: $15.00/game
For more information regarding Athletics positions, please contact Tammy McMahon via email at tmcmahon@newlenoxparks.org
Attachment(s):
  • Full Job Description - Referee.pdf