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Sports Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Life Time

Basketball Referee

Westwood, MA

$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 ...

Life Time, Inc.

Basketball Referee

Westwood, MA · 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 ...

YMCA Of Greater Seattle

Youth Sports Referee

Bothell, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $22/hr

This is an On-site, Part-Time Position Officiate a variety of sports programs for youth and teens. Create a safe, enjoyable, positive and inclusive environment that welcomes people of all skill and ...

YMCA Of Greater Seattle

Youth Sports Referee

Seatac, WA

$21.30 - $23/hr

Officiate a variety of sports programs for youth and teens. Create a safe, enjoyable, positive and inclusive environment that welcomes people of all skill and activity levels. Provide a quality ...

YMCA Of Greater Seattle

Youth Sports Referee

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $23/hr

Officiate a variety of sports programs for youth and teens. Create a safe, enjoyable, positive and inclusive environment that welcomes people of all skill and activity levels. Provide a quality ...

YMCA Of Greater Seattle

Youth Sports Referee

Auburn, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $23/hr

Officiate a variety of sports programs for youth and teens. Create a safe, enjoyable, positive and inclusive environment that welcomes people of all skill and activity levels. Provide a quality ...

YMCA of Central Texas

Sports Official

Round Rock, TX · On-site

$13 - $18/hr

Experience as a sports referee preferred but not required. * Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen, criminal history background check, sex offender registry check and reference checks.

YMCA Of Greater Seattle

Youth Sports Referee

Seatac, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $23/hr

Officiate a variety of sports programs for youth and teens. Create a safe, enjoyable, positive and inclusive environment that welcomes people of all skill and activity levels. Provide a quality ...

YMCA Of Greater Seattle

Youth Sports Referee

Auburn, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $23/hr

Officiate a variety of sports programs for youth and teens. Create a safe, enjoyable, positive and inclusive environment that welcomes people of all skill and activity levels. Provide a quality ...

YMCA Of Greater Seattle

Youth Sports Referee

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $22/hr

This is an On-site, Part-Time Position Officiate a variety of sports programs for youth and teens. Create a safe, enjoyable, positive and inclusive environment that welcomes people of all skill and ...

YMCA Of Greater Seattle

Youth Sports Referee

Seattle, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $23/hr

Officiate a variety of sports programs for youth and teens. Create a safe, enjoyable, positive and inclusive environment that welcomes people of all skill and activity levels. Provide a quality ...

YMCA of Central Texas

Sports Official

Round Rock, TX · On-site

$13 - $18/hr

Experience as a sports referee preferred but not required. * Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen, criminal history background check, sex offender registry check and reference checks.

YMCA Of Greater Seattle

Youth Sports Referee

Bothell, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $22/hr

This is an On-site, Part-Time Position Officiate a variety of sports programs for youth and teens. Create a safe, enjoyable, positive and inclusive environment that welcomes people of all skill and ...

YMCA Of Greater Seattle

Youth Sports Referee

Bellevue, WA · On-site

$21.30 - $22/hr

This is an On-site, Part-Time Position Officiate a variety of sports programs for youth and teens. Create a safe, enjoyable, positive and inclusive environment that welcomes people of all skill and ...

YMCA of Central Texas

Sports Official

Burnet, TX · On-site

$13 - $16/hr

Experience as a sports referee preferred but not required. * Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen, criminal history background check, sex offender registry check and reference checks.

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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 - Soccer - Wilson

Family YMCA of Greater Augusta

Augusta, GA • On-site

$10 - $21/hr

Part-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

General Statement of Duties: Manage youth sports matches played between teams according to official rules and regulations. The referee is expected to cooperate with coaches and other officials to develop a positive self-image in the players and to provide a good role model for all participants.
Education/Experience:
  • High School Diploma or General Education Degree (GED)
  • Working knowledge of sport's rules and regulations
  • Prior experience with soccer preferred.
  • Certifications required within 60 days of hire: CPR/AED, BBP, and First Aid
  • One to three years' related experience and/or training
  • Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to relate effectively to diverse groups of people from all social and economic segments of the community.

Personal Qualities:
  • Ability to work with children and volunteers.
  • Excellent character, integrity, and adaptability
  • Enthusiasm, sense of humor, patience, and self-control
  • Recognize and respond to opportunities for problem solving.
  • Desires the success of the program

Apply