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Referee Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

ymcadetroit

Basketball Referee

Mount Clemens, MI

Now Hiring a Basketball Referee at the Macomb YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment * Employee ...

ymcadetroit

Basketball Referee

Mount Clemens, MI

Now Hiring a Basketball Referee at the Macomb YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment * Employee ...

ymcadetroit

Level 2 Sports Referee

Farmington, MI · On-site

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 2 at the Farmington YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

ymcadetroit

Level 2 Sports Referee

Farmington, MI · On-site

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 2 at the Farmington YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

Life Time, Inc.

Basketball Referee

Canton, MI · On-site

Position Summary The Sports Referee assists in the execution of LT Sport league play by officiating league games. They work closely with Sports League Coordinators and players to ensure a respectful ...

ymcadetroit

Sports Referee Level 1

Southgate, MI · On-site

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Downriver YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

ymcadetroit

Sports Referee Level 1

Southgate, MI · On-site

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Downriver YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

ymcadetroit

Level 1 Sports Referee

Farmington, MI

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Farmington YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

ymcadetroit

Sports Referee Level 1

Milford, MI · On-site

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Carl's YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

ymcadetroit

Sports Referee Level 1

Milford, MI · On-site

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Carl's YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

ymcadetroit

Level 1 Sports Referee

Farmington, MI · On-site

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Farmington YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

Oakland Schools

Volleyball Referee

Commerce, MI · On-site

Position Type: Community Education/Other Date Posted: 11/17/2025 Location: Clifford H. Smart Middle School Date Available: 11/24/25 District: Walled Lake Consolidated Schools Please see attached

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All JobsReferee JobsReferee Jobs in Detroit, MI

Referee information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$6

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$58

How much do referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for referee in Detroit, MI is $20.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.88 and $21.88 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.
More about Referee jobs

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The most popular types of Referee jobs in Detroit, MI are:

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For Referee jobs in Detroit, MI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Referee jobs in Detroit, MI are:

What cities near Detroit, MI are hiring for Referee jobs?

Cities near Detroit, MI with the most Referee job openings:

Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Referee job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 34% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $43,102 per year, or $20.7 per hour.

Basketball Referee

ymcadetroit

Mount Clemens, MI

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Job description

FIND A CAREER THAT MAKES A DIFFERENCE
WITH A JOB AT THE Y!

Now Hiring a Basketball Referee at the Macomb YMCA

YMCA Employee Benefits

  • FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Family-friendly Work Environment
  • Employee Assistance Program & Retirement Plan

Position Summary

The Basketball Referee is responsible for officiating games with a higher level of complexity, ensuring fairness, safety, and sportsmanship among players. This position plays a key role in supporting the YMCA's mission by providing leadership and guidance to sports program participants

Education/Experience/Training/Certifications

  • Must be 18 years of age or older
  • Thorough knowledge of the sport and ability to enforce rules effectively.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Experience refereeing sports preferred.
  • Previous experience working with children in a supervised setting preferred.
  • Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends.
  • Completion of YMCA Sports Referee Level 1 or 2 training.

Job Duties & Responsibilities

  • Arrives at games at least 15 minutes prior to game start time.
  • Demonstrates advanced knowledge of the sport and effectively enforces rules.
  • Conducts brief coach meetings before games and facilitates team gatherings.
  • Recites the Youth Sports Pledge to promote sportsmanship and respect.
  • Creates a positive and supportive game environment.
  • Stops play when necessary and explains violations consistently and fairly.
  • Develops authentic relationships with players, parents, and volunteers.
  • Encourages parent involvement and identifies potential volunteers.
  • Adheres to all YMCA policies, rules, regulations, and safety procedures.
  • Works with varying age groups and manages large groups effectively.
  • Attends required staff meetings, training sessions, and other YMCA activities.
  • Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as required.

For more opportunities to join our team, please visit the YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit's career page (ymcadetroit.org/careers).

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