ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Referee Jobs in Madison, WI (NOW HIRING)

YMCA

Sports Instructor/Referee

Sun Prairie, WI · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

If you are looking to make a difference in a child's life and create a fun environment, join the YMCA of Dane County as a Youth Sports Instructor. * Soccer * Basketball * Flag Football (Top needs)

previous page

Showing results 21-34

All JobsReferee JobsReferee Jobs in Madison, WI

Referee information

See Madison, WI salary details

$6

$21

$59

How much do referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for referee in Madison, WI is $21.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.12 and $22.31 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

What are popular job titles related to Referee jobs in Madison, WI?

For Referee jobs in Madison, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Referee jobs in Madison, WI look for?

The top searched job categories for Referee jobs in Madison, WI are:

What cities near Madison, WI are hiring for Referee jobs?

Cities near Madison, WI with the most Referee job openings:

Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Referee job openings in Madison, WI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 34% Full Time, 62% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,878 per year, or $21.1 per hour.

Youth Soccer Instructor and Referee

Madison School & Community Recreation

Madison, WI • On-site

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

Madison School & Community Recreation (MSCR) is Madison's public recreation provider. MSCR offers a wide variety of athletic, recreational, arts and enrichment activities and classes for all ages in an accessible, inclusive setting. Programs include swimming instruction, MSCR on the Move, arts & enrichment classes, youth summer camps, sports camps & clinics, adult & 50+ fitness, adult sport leagues including pickleball, softball and tennis, and a wide variety of outdoor pursuits including paddling sports, pontoon trips, camping, orienteering and challenge courses. 
As a department of the Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD), MSCR also provides afterschool enrichment activities, clubs and sports as well as summer programming in Madison elementary, middle and high schools, Allied Learning Center and Meadowood Neighborhood Center. Afterschool clubs and sports include: arts & enrichment, homework/academic clubs, drama, dance, skiing, soccer, basketball, volleyball, cross country and much more!

Program Description: 

MSCR Youth Sports Leagues provides participants with an experience that emphasizes skill and character development through non-competitive recreational leagues. Our youth leagues promote fun, participation, sportsmanship and fair play. MSCR offers soccer, T-ball, flag football and volleyball youth leagues throughout the year. All children are welcome to join our leagues regardless of skill level or sports experience. 

Job Description & Duties: 

Youth Soccer Referee/Instructor is responsible for promoting a positive, engaging and safe playing experience for youth. The emphasis is on skill building, fun, fitness, making new friends, sportsmanship and learning the sport. This position would work with the Child & Adult Programs (ages 2+) and with youth ages 3-10 years old.

Start Date: 9/12/26

Work Location: Stephens, Crestwood, Chavez, Toki, Cherokee, Nuestro Mundo, Lapham, Kennedy, and other sites as needed.

Hours/week: 2-18.5 hours per week.

Work hours: Weeknights (Monday/Wednesdays) and Weekends (Saturday AM, Sunday PM)

Apply