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Refereeing Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

i9 Sports

Youth Sports Coordinator

Novato, CA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Facilitate and referee games - understand rules, keep score and time, focus on player improvement, be vocal and have a coaching mindset! * Teach & demonstrate the i9 Sports Sportsmanship values

i9 Sports

Youth Sports Coordinator

Novato, CA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Facilitate and referee games - understand rules, keep score and time, focus on player improvement, be vocal and have a coaching mindset! * Teach & demonstrate the i9 Sports Sportsmanship values

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Refereeing information

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$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.
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What cities in California are hiring for Refereeing jobs? Cities in California with the most Refereeing job openings:
Refereeing jobs near you
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.
Athletic Official

Athletic Official

THE GROVE COMMUNITY CHURCH

Riverside, CA • On-site

$20/hr

Other

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Provide services to Referee/Umpire League games for Youth and or Adults League(s) ran by The Grove Community Church. Applicants will need to have thorough knowledge of the game and its' rules and provide a professional look to our Leagues. You will be expected to be able to maintain a calm atmosphere even is stressful situations that may arise.
The purpose of our League(s) is two-fold. 1) Help get people of The Grove connected with each other and build lasting relationships and 2) be a Bridge into our community so that people that may never come to a church service would come to a sporting event and allow us to build a relationship with them in hopes that they would begin a journey with us in a better understanding of what the Cross has done for them.
Reports to: Sport Ministry Pastor and/or League Director
Works with: Possibly Other Athletic Officials
Works: Part time, as needed, hours vary
Wage Range: $20.00-$20.00 per hour
Allocation of Specific Duties
  • Always be early for games
  • Run games with professionalism and courtesy
  • Maintain sportsmanship amongst teams
  • Model Biblical principles in interactions with parents and children

Before submitting a resume and cover letter, please read The Grove's Statement of Faith and Foundational Beliefs. All applicants confirm they have reviewed and are in full agreement with each part of the Statement of Faith and Foundational Beliefs. Submission of a resume and cover letter constitutes an affirmation of alignment with The Grove's Statement of Faith and Foundational Beliefs.

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