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Refereeing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Football Referee

Manteca, CA · 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 · 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 · On-site

$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

Solvang, CA

$17.51 - $18.51/hr

  • Retirement

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game * Develop player's through teaching moments during the games * Start all ...

REFEREE

Solvang, CA · On-site

$17.51 - $18.51/hr

  • Retirement

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game * Develop player's through teaching moments during the games * Start all ...

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 ...

Referee

South Lake Tahoe, CA · 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 ...

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 ...

Referee (4132)

Hollywood, CA · On-site

$18.47 - $20/hr

Referees are expected to promote teamwork, confidence, and physical activity in a safe, supportive environment while enforcing YMCA rules and regulations. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Officiates games in ...

Referee (4137)

Montebello, CA · On-site

$18.47 - $20/hr

Referees are expected to promote teamwork, confidence, and physical activity in a safe, supportive environment while enforcing YMCA rules and regulations. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Officiates games in ...

Referee (4142)

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$18.47 - $20/hr

Referees are expected to promote teamwork, confidence, and physical activity in a safe, supportive environment while enforcing YMCA rules and regulations. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Officiates games in ...

Referee (4141)

Maywood, CA · On-site

$18.47 - $20/hr

Referees are expected to promote teamwork, confidence, and physical activity in a safe, supportive environment while enforcing YMCA rules and regulations. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS * Officiates games in ...

Hockey Referee

San Jose, CA · 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 ...

Referee Official

Oroville, CA

$20 - $22/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

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 - BASKETBALL

Ventura, CA

$17.51 - $19.50/hr

  • Retirement

Referee youth sports games to enforce rules, sportsmanship, and safety * Teach age-appropriate basic rules during the game * Develop player's through teaching moments during the games * Start all ...

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Refereeing information

See California salary details

$8

$25

$60

How much do refereeing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 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.

What is a referee?

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a referee?

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 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.

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.

Do referees get paid well?

Referees' pay varies depending on the level of sport, league, and location. While amateur referees often earn modest amounts, professional referees in major leagues can earn a competitive salary, sometimes reaching six figures annually, especially with additional match fees and endorsements. Experience, certifications, and the frequency of matches influence earning potential.

What are popular job titles related to Refereeing jobs in California?

For Refereeing jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Refereeing jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Refereeing jobs in California are:

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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 59% Full Time, 39% Part Time, and 2% Temporary. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,653 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

$20 - $25/hr

Part-time

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


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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