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Sports Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Life Time, Inc.

Basketball Referee

Raleigh, NC · 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

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

Basketball Referee

San Antonio, TX · 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

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

San Antonio, TX · 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

Basketball Referee

Raleigh, NC · 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 ...

i9 Sports

Youth Sports Referee

CA · On-site

$16.50/hr

Online training opportunities Company Overview Founded in Tampa, Florida, i9 Sports ® is the nation's first and largest youth sports league franchise business in the United States with over 1 ...

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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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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.
Youth Sports Referee/Sports Assistant

Youth Sports Referee/Sports Assistant

Ymca Of Snohomish County

Everett, WA • On-site

$21.39 - $22.52/hr

Part-time

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description
The YMCA of Snohomish County provides jobs and careers with a cause. Every day, the Y makes a lasting impression in our communities through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Our unique work environment constantly changes to adapt to the needs of our communities. We are a non-profit, in the people business. This means that we help members meet a fitness or ability goal, see that children thrive in our child care programs, encourage family togetherness, and give youth an opportunity to learn life skills through water safety, sports, and teen programming.
Our Commitment to Inclusion:
The Y is made up of people of all ages and from every walk of life, working side by side to strengthen communities. Together we work to ensure that everyone, regardless of ability, age, cultural background, ethnicity, faith, gender, gender identity, ideology, income, national origin, race or sexual orientation, has the opportunity to reach their full potential with dignity. Our core values are caring, honesty, respect and responsibility-they guide everything we do.
We look forward to having you on our YMCA team!
*The YMCA is an Equal Opportunity Employer that celebrates diversity at all levels of our organization!
Job Summary:
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: basketball, soccer, flag football, volleyball, etc. This position requires individuals to monitor play, ensure safety of all coaches and participants. Provide direct supervision of participants in a safe, enjoyable, positive and inclusive environment that welcomes participants of all skill and activity level. Provide a quality experience to participants focused on YMCA core values: honesty, respect, responsibility, and caring.
Employee will be expected to referee sports games, keeping participants safe and the games under control. This position also requires referees to act professionally and to serve as role models for the participants. Referees are required to wear referee jerseys when working a game. This position also requires that referees communicate with adult coaches to ensure games start in a timely manner, prepare courts for play, recruit volunteer scorekeepers, and assist Gym Supervisors with opening, closing, and cleaning the gym. All employees of the YMCA including referees are expected to uphold the four core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. Preferred candidates will official multiple sports/season and is committed to provide a quality experience to participants.
Job Duties/Responsibilities:
• Provide safe supervision of participants
  • Officiate sports games for all levels of recreation and competitive Sport Programs.
    • Implement program activities that are culturally relevant, developmentally appropriate and consistent with YMCA core values
    • Adhere to program standards including safety and cleanliness standards
    • Follow YMCA policies and procedures, including those related to medical and disciplinary situations, child abuse prevention and emergencies
    • Develop and maintain positive effective relationships with our diverse members, participants and other staff
    • Perform other duties as assigned

Qualifications:
  • Minimum 16 years of age
    • Previous officiating experience preferred but not required
    • Current CPR Adult and Child and First Aid, or be willing to obtain
    • General knowledge of recreation sports programs and equipment
    • Must have willingness and desire to work with children and adults

Y Culture:
• Build relationships with a diverse membership base in culturally responsive ways, connect members with one another and to the YMCA
• Exhibit Caring, Honesty, Respect and Responsibility
• Complete required training and certifications within established guidelines
• Arrive on time ready for shift, clock in/out within timekeeping system

Apply