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Referee Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

NFL FLAG Official

Saint John, IN · On-site

$11.75 - $14.75/hr

Knowledgeable of the rules and referee signals. We will help teach the rules and mechanics. * Strong people skills. Confidently interact with players, parents, and coaches to keep games moving ...

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 ...

Assistant Softball 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 ...

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 ...

Referee youth games when needed * Encourage teamwork, confidence, and good sportsmanship * Help athletes of all skill levels feel included and supported * Communicate positively with players and ...

Referee youth games when needed * Encourage teamwork, confidence, and good sportsmanship * Help athletes of all skill levels feel included and supported * Communicate positively with players and ...

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Referee information

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$60

How much do referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 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.

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 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 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.

Are referees in high demand?

Referees are generally in steady demand, especially in sports leagues, schools, and recreational organizations. Opportunities can vary based on the sport, level of competition, and region, with certifications often required to qualify for paid positions.

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 major leagues or tournaments often earn a full-time income, while amateur or youth referees typically supplement their income with other jobs. Certification and consistent scheduling are important for career advancement and earning potential.

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:

Infographic showing various Referee job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 35% Full Time, 52% Part Time, and 13% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $44,887 per year, or $21.6 per hour.

Youth Volleyball Supervisor - Saturdays - Must be at least 16 years old

Streamwood Park District

Streamwood, IL

$15/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Summary
Under the direction and supervision of the Recreation Manager, Youth Volleyball Supervisors are responsible for supervising youth volleyball games. Youth Volleyball Supervisors are responsible for performing the essential functions as outlined below. This is a part-time position runs on Saturdays. With occasional hours for tournaments and possible special events. 
Great job for teens or those looking to make a few extra dollars!
Saturdays during the following dates:
Spring Season Dates:   April 4 - May 9
Saturday mornings 9am-Noon or later
The hours may vary but will not exceed 8 per week.
This is an at-will position.
Qualifications









  • Candidate must be at least 16 years of age.
  • Candidate must have completed a minimum of two (2) years of high school.
  • Preference given to candidates with previous league supervision experience.
  • Candidate must have a valid driver's license or reliable means of transportation to and from the athletic facility.
  • Candidate must be task-oriented, organized, energetic, and detailed.
  • Candidate must be able to communicate effectively and professionally with patrons, the public, co-workers and supervisors.
  • Candidate must be CPR and AED certified within (3) months of hiring (District provided).

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

  • Employee must arrive to the court 1 hour prior to game start to begin set-up.
  • Employee must set up score table including table, chairs, possession arrows and scoreboard operating controls.
  • Employee must set up nets.
  • Employee must set up bleachers for participants.
  • Employee must set-up a seating area for both teams.
  • Employee must refer to the supervisory binder for important forms and rules.
  • Employee must maintain the nets as necessary.
  • While the game is being conducted, employee must:
    • Operate the scoreboard.
    • Keep track of substitutions.
    • Keep track of the score.
    • Keep track of each participant's fouls.
    • Complete the league scorebook.
    • Assist referees if necessary.
    • Enforce Streamwood Park District policies and rules.
  • Employee must deliver scoresheet information to Recreation Manager at game conclusion.
  • Employee must complete accident incident reports and forward to the Recreation Manager when necessary.
  • Employee must administer first aid when necessary.
  • At the conclusion of daily activities, employee must breakdown scorer's table, team seating and spectator seating.
  • Employee must be able to operate gym curtain divider and follow proper layouts for setting up courts for game play.
  • Employee must speak to coaches before the start of the game and answer any questions if presented in a cordial and respectful manner.
  • Employee must monitor gym and hallways for inappropriate use and take appropriate action.
  • Employee must supervise the safety of the games and provide assistance if injuries occur.
  • Employee must document any major safety issues with the Recreation Manager.
  • Employee must read all rules pertaining to the Streamwood Park District Volleyball League. Employees must have possession of rules available to them at each game.
  • Employee must act as a peacekeeper between parents, coaches, and referees during the course of game play.
  • Employee must return any player benches, nets, score clocks, and other materials to locked boxes or facilities at the end of the day's games.
  • Employee must perform all job tasks within the rules and guidelines of the Streamwood Park District's safety program.

 
Secondary Duties & Responsibilities

  • Employee must contact Recreation Manager with greater than 24-hour notice when not able to attend work schedule.
  • Employee must maintain a positive relationship with co-workers, participants, coaches and parents.
  • Employee is responsible for managing property and equipment through ensuring appropriate levels of safety and cleanliness.
  • Employee must maintain positive attitude and be supportive of the Park District.
  • Employee must maintain an appropriate customer service attitude.
  • Employee may be required to work Park District special events such as,but not limited to Tournaments and/or various youth and teen events.
  • Employee must adhere to Park District policies and procedures set forth in the Part-Time and Seasonal Personnel Policies Manual.
  • Employee must be available for other duties as assigned and/or needed.

Benefits
Please see applicable benefits at: SPD-PayTransparency-WebsiteDisclosure-2025.pdf
Salary
Non-Exempt, Not IMRF Eligible
Salary Range:
$15.00-15.00 per hour
Hiring Range:
$15.00-$15.00 per hour
If interested, please apply early. Recruiting and interviewing will begin soon.
The Streamwood Park District is an equal opportunity employer.