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Sport Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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

Basketball Referee

Mount Clemens, MI

Thorough knowledge of the sport and ability to enforce rules effectively. * Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. * Experience refereeing sports preferred. * Previous experience working ...

Life Time, Inc.

Sports referee

Montvale, NJ · On-site

$60/hr

Position Summary The Sports Referee assists in the execution of LT Sport league play by officiating ... LT Sport leagues may include but are not limited to basketball, volleyball and soccer. Job Duties ...

i9 Sports

Youth Sports Referee

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

... the sport(s) that you ref * Arrive on time to each scheduled shift * Communicate important game ... No prior refereeing experience is required, but having a basic knowledge of sports is preferred

Piedmont YMCA

$16 - $20/hr

The primary responsibilities of a YMCA Referee are to enforce the rules of the respective sport, to create a positive, fun, and safe game atmosphere, and to encourage sportsmanship and equal playing ...

Life Time, Inc.

Basketball Referee

South Jordan, UT · 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 ...

Life Time, Inc.

Basketball Referee

Henderson, NV · 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 ...

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How much do sport referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for sport referee in the United States is $20.93, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $22.12 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a sport referee?

Sport referees are officials who oversee and enforce the rules during sporting events. Their main responsibilities include making decisions on plays, ensuring fair competition, and maintaining the safety of participants. Referees use their knowledge of the sport's rules to judge actions, signal infractions, and resolve disputes between players or coaches. They often work at various levels, from amateur leagues to professional sports, and may also be responsible for starting and stopping play, keeping time, and reporting game results.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a sport referee, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Sport Referee, you need a thorough understanding of the sport's rules, strong decision-making abilities, and often certification from a recognized governing body. Familiarity with scorekeeping systems, timing devices, and sometimes video replay technology is typically required. Excellent communication, impartiality, and conflict resolution skills help referees manage players, coaches, and game situations effectively. These skills are crucial to ensure fair play, maintain game integrity, and foster respect on the field.

What are some common challenges sport referees face during games, and how can they effectively handle these situations?

Sport referees often encounter challenges such as managing high-pressure situations, dealing with disputes between players or coaches, and making split-second decisions that can impact the outcome of a game. Effective referees address these challenges by maintaining clear communication, staying impartial, and continuously updating their knowledge of the rules. Building strong conflict resolution skills and remaining calm under pressure are essential for earning respect and ensuring fair play.

What is the difference between Sport Referee vs Sports Official?

AspectSport RefereeSports Official
CredentialsUsually requires certification from sports governing bodiesOften holds similar certifications, may include specific training for different sports
Work EnvironmentOn-field during games, enforcing rules and making callsCan include on-field, sidelines, or event management roles
Employer & IndustrySports leagues, schools, recreational clubsSports organizations, leagues, tournaments
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

Both Sport Referees and Sports Officials are essential for maintaining fair play in sports. While referees typically focus on enforcing rules during games, sports officials may have broader roles including overseeing multiple aspects of sporting events. The certifications and work environments are similar, making them closely related roles within the sports industry.

How much money do sport referees make?

Sport referees' earnings vary based on the level of competition, sport, and location. They typically earn between $20 and $100 per game for amateur leagues and can make several hundred dollars or more per game at professional levels, with some earning annual salaries or stipends for regular officiating duties. Certification and experience often influence pay rates.

How to become a sport referee?

To become a sport referee, you typically need to complete relevant training or certification programs offered by sports governing bodies, which cover rules, safety, and officiating techniques. Gaining experience through volunteering or officiating lower-level games can also help, and some sports require passing written exams or practical assessments to obtain certification. Strong communication skills, knowledge of the sport, and the ability to make quick decisions are essential for success in this role.

What cities are hiring for Sport Referee jobs?

Cities with the most Sport Referee job openings:

What states have the most Sport Referee jobs?

States with the most job openings for Sport Referee jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Sport Referee jobs?

For Sport Referee jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Sport Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sport Referee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 57% Full Time, 39% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,539 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Sports Instructor/Referee

Madison, WI • On-site

YMCA of Dane County
See more jobs at YMCA of Dane Countyexternal

Part-time

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

If you're looking to make a difference in a child's life while helping create a fun, positive, and educational sports experience, join the YMCA of Dane County as a Youth Sports Referee.

Sports Include:

  • Basketball
  • Flag Football
  • Soccer
  • T-Ball
  • Volleyball
  • Other Youth Sports Programs

Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Officiate youth sports games in a fair, consistent, and professional manner.
  • Maintain control of the game while creating a safe and enjoyable environment for all participants.
  • Briefly explain rules and officiating decisions to players in an age-appropriate and respectful way.
  • Teach and reinforce the rules of the game throughout play.
  • Encourage sportsmanship, teamwork, and YMCA core values among players, coaches, and spectators.
  • Communicate effectively with volunteer coaches, parents, and YMCA staff.
  • Manage challenging situations calmly and confidently.
  • Assist with setting up and taking down equipment as needed.
  • Represent the YMCA with professionalism and a positive attitude.

What Makes YMCA Refereeing Different?

At the East YMCA, our referees do much more than blow the whistle. We are looking for individuals who are willing to go beyond simply officiating games. Our referees serve as teachers and mentors by helping young athletes understand the game, explaining calls when appropriate, promoting good sportsmanship, and creating a positive learning environment while maintaining control of the game. If you enjoy working with kids and want to help them grow both as athletes and as people, we'd love to have you on our team.

Qualifications:

  • Enjoy working with children.
  • Strong communication and conflict management skills.
  • Ability to confidently manage youth sporting events.
  • Positive attitude and professional demeanor.
  • Knowledge of sports rules (training provided as needed).
  • Officiating, coaching, or experience working with children is preferred but not required.

Weekend & Evening Hours Available

Job Type: Part-time

Benefits Offered:

  • FREE YMCA Membership!
  • Flexible scheduling.
  • Paid training opportunities.
  • The chance to make a lasting impact on young athletes while having fun.

The YMCA of Dane County is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, veteran status, or any other classification protected by applicable law.