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Sports Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Life Time, Inc.

Sports Referee

Burr Ridge, IL · On-site

$60/hr

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

Sports Referee Level 1

Southgate, MI · On-site

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Downriver YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

Life Time

Sports Referee

Burr Ridge, IL

$60/hr

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 ...

Piedmont YMCA

Sports Referee

Charlottesville, VA

$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 ...

ymcadetroit

Sports Referee Level 1

Southgate, MI

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Downriver YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

ymcadetroit

Sports Referee Level 1

Milford, MI · On-site

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Carl's YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

ymcadetroit

Sports Referee Level 1

Milford, MI

Now Hiring a Sports Referee Level 1 at the Carl's YMCA YMCA Employee Benefits * FREE Family Membership & Discounted Access to Programs * Flexible Scheduling * Family-friendly Work Environment

i9 Sports

i9 Sports Referee

Columbus, GA · On-site

$15/hr

Job Summary As an i9 Sports Referee (Sports Coordinator) , you are the face of the game-day experience. You will ensure games are called fairly while actively coaching and mentoring players and ...

YMCA

Youth Sports Referee/Sports Assistant

Monroe, WA · On-site

Under the supervision and guidance of the Sports Director or Coordinator, the Sports Referee is responsible for officiating youth, teen or adult sporting events including, but not limited to ...

Liberty

Intramural Sports Referee

Lynchburg, VA · On-site

The Intramural Sports Referee is responsible to fairly officiate Intramural Sports events, maintaining standards of play and ensuring that rules are adhered to. They are responsible for performing ...

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Sports Referee information

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How much do sports referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for sports 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.

How much does a D1 ref get paid?

Division 1 referees typically earn between $150 and $300 per game, with some earning higher rates for postseason or tournament assignments. Compensation varies based on the sport, level of experience, and the governing organization, and referees often need certification and ongoing training to officiate at this level.

What are some of the main challenges sports referees face during a game, and how can they effectively handle them?

Sports referees often encounter challenges such as making split-second decisions under pressure, handling disputes or disagreements from players and coaches, and maintaining impartiality throughout the game. To effectively handle these challenges, referees rely on thorough knowledge of the rules, strong communication skills, and the ability to remain calm and assertive in high-stress situations. Continuous training, experience, and feedback from peers or mentors also play a crucial role in helping referees refine their judgment and conflict resolution techniques.

What qualifications do I need to be a referee?

To become a sports referee, you typically need to complete a certification or training course specific to the sport, which covers rules, safety, and officiating techniques. Most positions require a good understanding of the game, strong communication skills, and sometimes background checks or age requirements. Certification requirements vary by sport and level of competition.

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

To thrive as a Sports Referee, you need a thorough understanding of game rules, strong decision-making abilities, and, typically, official certification from a recognized sports body. Familiarity with timing devices, scorekeeping systems, and video review technology is often required, depending on the sport. Excellent communication, impartiality, and conflict resolution skills help referees maintain authority and manage interactions with players, coaches, and spectators. These competencies are vital to ensure fair play, uphold the integrity of the game, and manage high-pressure situations effectively.

How much do sports refs get paid?

Sports referees' pay varies depending on the level of competition, location, and experience. For youth and amateur games, referees typically earn $10 to $50 per game, while those officiating professional or high school matches can earn from $50 to several hundred dollars per game or event. Many referees also receive additional compensation for travel and training certifications.

Is becoming an NFL ref hard?

Becoming an NFL referee is highly competitive and requires extensive experience officiating at lower levels, such as college or professional leagues, along with passing physical and knowledge tests. Candidates often need strong communication skills, a thorough understanding of the rules, and certification from officiating organizations. The process is demanding and involves ongoing training and evaluation.

What are sports referees?

Sports referees are officials responsible for enforcing the rules and maintaining order during athletic competitions. They make decisions on plays, ensure fair play, and address any violations of the game's regulations. Referees may work in a variety of sports, such as soccer, basketball, or football, and often use signals, whistles, or flags to communicate their decisions. Their role is crucial for ensuring that games are played safely, fairly, and according to the established rules.
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What cities are hiring for Sports Referee jobs? Cities with the most Sports Referee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Sports Referee jobs? The most popular types of Sports Referee jobs are:
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What job categories do people searching Sports Referee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Sports Referee jobs are:
Sports Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Sports Referee job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $43,539 per year, or $20.9 per hour.
Sports Referee

Sports Referee

Life Time, Inc.

Burr Ridge, IL • On-site

$60/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 15 days ago

Life Time rating

6.6

Company rating: 6.6 out of 10

Based on 379 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

22nd of 61 rated gym and leisure clubs

Job description

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 and fun league experience. LT Sport leagues may include but are not limited to basketball, volleyball and soccer.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
  • Officiates LT Sport league games fairly
  • Follows and enforces all LT Sport league rules during games
  • Interacts with players in a respectful, cooperative manner
  • Works closely with Sports League Coordinator to ensure member satisfaction
  • Promotes LT Sport products and Life Time to members and non-members
  • Communicates extensive knowledge of LT Sport and Life Time programs, products, services, policies, and procedures to prospective and current members

Position Requirements
  • High School Diploma or GED
  • 1-year experience referee experience
  • General knowledge of applicable sport rules
  • Certified official in applicable sport by local governing body

Pay
This position pays a class rate between $25.00 and $60.00, based on experience, qualifications, and duration of the class. The class rate compensates for all working time associated with teaching classes (including without limitation, all time spent in class as well as all pre- and post-class working time).
Benefits
All team members receive the following benefits while working for Life Time:
  • A fully subsidized membership
  • Discounts on Life Time products and services
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan with company discretionary match (21 years of age and older)
  • Training and professional development
  • Paid sick leave where required by law

Full-time Team Members are eligible for additional benefits, including:
  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage
  • Short term and long term disability insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Pre-tax flexible spending and dependent care plans
  • Parental leave and adoption assistance
  • Paid time off, including 5 to 20 vacation days per calendar year (based on tenure) and paid sick leave
  • Deferred compensation plan, if the team member meets the required income threshold

Life Time may use artificial intelligence ("AI") in connection with various aspects of its recruitment and hiring functions. Ultimate employment decisions are subject to human review and oversight. Life Time does not use AI in a manner that would have the effect of subjecting applicants to discrimination on the basis of protected classes or proxies or for engaging in any protected activity under applicable law.
Life Time is a place for everyone. As an organization, we are committed to an inclusive, diverse and equitable workplace that respects and celebrates the unique contributions of each individual while ensuring we remain an equal opportunity employer that recruits, hires, trains and promotes based on merit and qualifications.

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