ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Referee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

TOCA Football

Soccer League Referee

Naperville, IL

$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 ...

TOCA Football

Soccer League Referee

Naperville, IL · 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 ...

i9 Sports

Youth Flag Football Coach

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20/hr

You'll lead practices, referee games, and be a role model while keeping safety first. Saturdays (daytime) & Sunday mornings. Humboldt Park & West Loop locations. Why You'll Love This Job * Stay close ...

i9 Sports

Summer Camp Sports Instructor

Chicago, IL · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Referee games, with an emphasis on learning the game and adjusting to the age level of players * Create a safe, positive, and encouraging environment for kids and parents What We're Looking For

Canlan Sports

League Convener

Barrington, IL

$18.25 - $20/hr

Liaise with team reps, referees, timekeepers and spectators as required. Experience: * Strong knowledge of multi-Sport rules (essential) * At least one year of experience in multi-sport field in an ...

Canlan Sports

League Convener

Barrington, IL · On-site

$18.25 - $20/hr

Liaise with team reps, referees, timekeepers and spectators as required. Experience: * Strong knowledge of multi-Sport rules (essential) * At least one year of experience in multi-sport field in an ...

Wheaton Academy

Assistant Track Coach

West Chicago, IL · On-site

$1.5K - $3.0K/yr

Display God-honoring communication with other coaches, parents, athletes, and referees. * Maintain regular communication with the Head Coach and athletic department staff. * Demonstrate Christ-like ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsReferee JobsReferee Jobs in Chicago, IL

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.
More about Referee jobs

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 job categories do people searching Referee jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Referee jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Referee jobs?

Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Referee job openings:

Referee jobs near you
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.

Soccer League Referee

TOCA Football

Naperville, IL

$30/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

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 live, and where TOCA becomes the place where they play. Whether they’re kicking a soccer ball for the first time, focused on finding their best, or rediscovering their passion for the game, we are here to support and guide them every step along the way. Everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the joy and fulfillment that sports can bring, regardless of background and skill levels. Our ultimate goal is to create a consistent and amazing experience for everyone who interacts with TOCA, whether it is our dedicated team members or esteemed guests.
What makes a TOCA Teammate? We value an individual that seeks to...
Play Hard
Care Deeply
Grow Together
Strive for Excellence
Create Awesome Experiences
Why You'll love being apart of the TOCA Team:
You'll have full access to our TOCA Treats, which includes (but is not limited to!):
  • Competitive Pay amp; On Demand Pay
  • Part Time, Flexible Scheduling
  • Career Growth amp; Development
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Active amp; Fit Membership
  • Benefits Hub Discount Marketplace
  • So many TOCA Perks we can't name all of them, but we'll try: 4 TOCA Training Sessions, 50% Off Classes, Free Pick/League Play, 1 Free Birthday Party, Food and Beverage Discount, and 2 Free Packages to share with your squad! Whew!
Job Highlights:
Job Title: Soccer Leagues Match Captain
Location: Naperville, IL
Report To: Leagues Manager or Coordinator
Hours Required: Part Time, Candidates must be able to work evenings and weekends
At TOCA, our Match Captains are the MVPs of our leagues. You’re not just calling fouls—you’re calling the shots to make sure every game is a total win for fun, excitement, and fair play. Love soccer? Love high-energy vibes? Then lace up your boots, because we’re looking for YOU!
Your Game Plan (Role Breakdown):
Game Day Playmaker (60%)
  • Be the captain of the match experience—hype up the energy, make sure the fun’s off the charts, and give players the TOCA vibe they’ll never forget.
  • Engage with players on the pitch, explain rules, and keep everything running smooth like a Messi dribble.
  • Keep games fair and flowing by enforcing the rules, but don’t forget—fun comes first!
Player amp; Guest Experience Coach (25%)
  • Be the friendly face of TOCA—greet players, keep things positive, and make everyone feel like a part of the team.
  • Share the scoop on upcoming games, leagues, and events. Make sure our soccer community is as tight as your ball-handling skills!
Stat Tracker amp; Gear Guru (15%)
  • Keep track of game time, player attendance, and those all-important stats.
  • Make sure equipment is game-ready—no deflated balls or mismatched jerseys on your watch!
TOCA Culture Champion (100!%)
  • Show off your passion for TOCA’s values— play hard, care deeply, grow together, strive for excellence and creating awesome experiences. You’re the heartbeat of our league, helping us create an epic soccer experience.
Your Skills on the Field
  • You’ve played high school soccer (or higher—bonus points for that!).
  • If you’ve reffed before, awesome. USSF license? Even better.
  • You’re a natural leader who thrives in high-energy, fast-paced environments.
#twparttime

Apply