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Refereeing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Football Referee

Manteca, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Football Referee Entity: Big League Dreams Manteca Reports to: General Manager Pay Rate: $20-25 per 45 minute game Location: Manteca, CA Anticipated Start Date: Immediately Availability: Part Time ...

Soccer Referee

Manteca, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

The Soccer Referee is responsible for enforcing the rules of the game during matches in a fair, consistent, and professional manner. This role is located at our Big League Dreams Manteca location and ...

Referee

South Lake Tahoe, CA

$20.27 - $25.87/hr

... Previous refereeing or coaching experience is a plus, but not required Supplemental Information EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO) EMPLOYER The City of South Lake Tahoe is an Equal Employment ...

Referee

South Lake Tahoe, CA ยท On-site

$20.27 - $25.87/hr

... refereeing or coaching experience is a plus, but not required. Supplemental Information EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY (EEO) EMPLOYER The City of South Lake Tahoe is an Equal Employment Opportunity ...

Position: Sport Associate Soccer Referee Job Overview: Join our dynamic team at Sofive Soccer Centers as a Sport Associate Soccer Referee. In this role, you will officiate in our leagues and ...

We are looking for a Hockey Referee who will be responsible for ensuring fair play, safety, and adherence to the rules of the game during hockey matches. They are responsible for making impartial ...

Hockey Referee

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$18.45 - $20/hr

We are looking for a Hockey Referee who will be responsible for ensuring fair play, safety, and adherence to the rules of the game during hockey matches. They are responsible for making impartial ...

SC Village Chino Referee

Chino, CA ยท On-site

$16.90/hr

Referee (Paintball and Airsoft Park) Location: SC Village Paintball and Airsoft Park Chino// 8900 McCarty rd. Chino CA 91710 Department: Field Operations Employment Type: Part-Time / Weekend Pay: $16 ...

Referee Official

Oroville, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

A minimum of two-years of experience as a player in the sport they are refereeing * Current certification in Standard First Aid, CPR * Competitive compensation * Comprehensive health benefits ...

Referee Official

Oroville, CA ยท On-site

$20 - $22/hr

A minimum of two-years of experience as a player in the sport they are refereeing * Current certification in Standard First Aid, CPR Benefits * Competitive compensation * Comprehensive health ...

Soccer Referee

San Jose, CA ยท On-site

$24.32 - $28.42/hr

Knowledge of soccer rules, regulations, refereeing mechanics. Physical Requirements: * Run, stand, walk for prolonged periods. * Bend, reach overhead. * Ability to lift 50 pounds. * Flexible work ...

Each game has one referee and pays 25 dollars per game. Contact me if you are interested and we can set up an interview. Company Description We are an adult sports and social club that provides ...

Football Referee

Huntington Beach, CA ยท On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Each game has one referee and pays 25 dollars per game. Contact me if you are interested and we can set up an interview. Company Description We are an adult sports and social club that provides ...

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Refereeing information

See California salary details

$8

$25

$60

How much do refereeing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for refereeing in California is $25.79, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.83 and $30.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do refs earn a year?

Referees' annual earnings vary widely depending on the level of competition, location, and experience. For example, amateur referees may earn a few hundred dollars per game, while professional referees in major leagues can earn from $50,000 to over $400,000 annually. Many referees also receive additional compensation for playoffs, tournaments, and certifications.

What are some common challenges faced by referees during matches, and how can they effectively manage them?

Referees often encounter challenges such as managing heated emotions among players and coaches, making quick decisions under pressure, and ensuring consistent enforcement of the rules. Effective communication and maintaining a calm, assertive presence are key to diffusing tense situations. Staying up-to-date with rule changes and participating in regular training sessions can also help referees remain confident and fair during matches. Building strong teamwork with assistant referees and maintaining clear signals are essential for smooth match management.

How to get hired as a referee?

To get hired as a referee, you typically need to complete relevant training and obtain certification from a recognized sports or officiating organization. Experience in the sport, good communication skills, and knowledge of the rules are also important, and some positions may require background checks or physical fitness assessments.

What is the difference between Refereeing vs Coaching?

AspectRefereeingCoaching
Required CredentialsReferee certifications, sports-specific trainingCoaching certifications, sport-specific licenses
Work EnvironmentSports events, stadiums, gymsTraining sessions, team facilities, offices
Employer & Industry UsageSports leagues, associations, schoolsSports teams, academies, clubs
Common Search & Comparison IntentRefereeing vs Coaching

Refereeing involves officiating sports events, ensuring rules are followed, and maintaining fair play. Coaching focuses on training athletes, developing skills, and strategizing for competitions. While both roles are integral to sports, referees primarily enforce rules during games, whereas coaches prepare teams for success through training and guidance.

What are referees and what do they do?

Referees are officials who oversee sports games or competitions to ensure that the rules are followed fairly and consistently. They make important decisions during play, such as calling fouls, awarding points, and managing the flow of the game. Referees are responsible for maintaining order, ensuring player safety, and upholding the integrity of the sport. Their impartial judgment is crucial for a fair and enjoyable experience for players and spectators alike.

How much money do refs get paid?

Referees' pay varies depending on the level of competition and league. For example, youth referees may earn $20 to $50 per game, while officials in professional leagues can earn several hundred dollars per match or more. Many referees also receive additional compensation for training, certifications, and travel.

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 comprehensive knowledge of the rules of the sport, keen observational skills, and typically some formal certification or completion of official training courses. Familiarity with timing systems, scorekeeping software, and communication devices like wireless headsets is often required. Strong decision-making, composure under pressure, and effective communication with players and coaches distinguish top referees. These skills are essential for ensuring fair play, maintaining game integrity, and handling high-stress situations confidently.

What qualifications do you need for referee?

Referees typically need a good understanding of the sport's rules, often demonstrated through certification courses or training programs. Some positions require age minimums, background checks, and physical fitness assessments, depending on the level of competition. Strong communication skills and the ability to make quick decisions are also important qualifications.
What cities in California are hiring for Refereeing jobs? Cities in California with the most Refereeing job openings:
Infographic showing various Refereeing job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 63% Full Time, 33% Part Time, and 3% Temporary. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $53,653 per year, or $25.8 per hour.
Football Referee

Football Referee

Ripken Baseball, Inc.

Manteca, CA โ€ข On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Football Referee
Entity: Big League Dreams Manteca
Reports to: General Manager
Pay Rate: $20-25 per 45 minute game
Location: Manteca, CA
Anticipated Start Date: Immediately
Availability: Part Time
Job Summary:
The Football Referee is responsible for enforcing the rules of the game during matches in a fair, consistent, and professional manner.
This role is located at our Big League Dreams Manteca location and requires a strong knowledge of the Laws of the Game, quick decision-making, excellent communication, and the ability to manage players, coaches, and game flow effectively.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Officiate football games by enforcing league-specific regulations
  • Start and end games on time, ensuring the correct length for each game
  • Make calls on the fields
  • Manage on-field behavior and resolve disputes in a calm, authoritative manner
  • Work alongside assistant referees (if applicable) to ensure accurate calls
  • Inspect field conditions and equipment before and during the game
  • 3 - 5 games per night are available

Requirements:
  • 1 year of referee experience necessary
  • In-depth knowledge of the Rules of the Game
  • Strong verbal communication and conflict resolution skills
  • Ability to remain neutral and composed under pressure

Working Conditions:
  • Outdoor work in varying weather conditions
  • Must be available for evenings and weekends

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