ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Volunteer Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

West End YMCA

Volunteer-Youth Sports

Upland, CA · On-site

Volunteers are the backbone of the Y. Volunteers not only founded the Y, but also operated it in ... We are seeking energetic, enthusiastic, and positive coaches and referees for our various youth ...

Town of Lexington

Volunteer

Lexington, MA · On-site

Volunteer as a coach, referee, or scorekeeper. Therapeutic Recreation: Volunteers with Therapeutic Recreation may work in a variety of program settings. The volunteers role may be to assist with ...

YMCA OF METRO ATLANTA

Contract Referee

Marietta, GA · On-site

At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the ... The Contract Referee will be responsible for signing an independent contractor agreement.

Town of Lexington

Volunteer

Lexington, MA · On-site

Volunteer as a coach, referee, or scorekeeper. Therapeutic Recreation: Volunteers with Therapeutic Recreation may work in a variety of program settings. The volunteers role may be to assist with ...

YMCA OF METRO ATLANTA

Contract Referee

Kennesaw, GA · On-site

At the Y, we're an association of like-minded people (staff, volunteers, and members), on the ... The Contract Referee will be responsible for signing an independent contractor agreement.

TWO RIVERS YMCA

Youth Sports Volunteer

Moline, IL

Lead by example among team parents to support the responsibilities of the referee and league ... Complete volunteer packet and background check. * Signed Code of Conduct & Waiver * Signed and ...

YMCA

Youth Sports Volunteer

Rock Island, IL · On-site

Lead by example among team parents to support the responsibilities of the referee and league ... Volunteer Sports & Seasons Soccer * March-April * July-September Tumbling * Year-round Basketball

YMCA

Youth Sports Volunteer

Moline, IL · On-site

Lead by example among team parents to support the responsibilities of the referee and league ... Complete volunteer packet and background check. * Signed Code of Conduct & Waiver * Signed and ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsVolunteer Referee Jobs

Volunteer Referee information

See salary details

$6

$20

$58

How much do volunteer referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for volunteer 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 are some common challenges Volunteer Referees face, and how can they prepare for them?

Volunteer Referees often encounter challenges such as managing conflicts between players or coaches and making split-second decisions under pressure. Preparation involves thorough knowledge of the sport’s rules, effective communication skills, and maintaining composure during heated moments. Building confidence through training sessions, shadowing experienced referees, and practicing assertiveness can help volunteers handle difficult situations more smoothly and enjoy their officiating experience.

What is the difference between Volunteer Referee vs Paid Referee?

AspectVolunteer RefereePaid Referee
CredentialsOften no formal certification required, but some sports may prefer certificationsRequires official certifications or licenses depending on sport and level
Work EnvironmentCommunity events, amateur leagues, local sportsProfessional leagues, tournaments, higher-level competitions
Employer & Industry UsageNon-profit organizations, community clubs, schoolsSports associations, professional leagues, event organizers
Search & Comparison IntentPeople looking for volunteer opportunities or local sports rolesIndividuals seeking paid officiating positions in sports

Volunteer referees typically officiate at community or amateur levels without pay and may not require formal certifications, depending on the sport. Paid referees usually work at higher levels, require certifications, and are compensated for their officiating services. The main difference lies in compensation, certification requirements, and the level of competition officiated.

What are Volunteer Referees?

Volunteer referees are individuals who offer their time and skills without pay to officiate games or competitions, often in youth or amateur sports leagues. They are responsible for enforcing rules, ensuring fair play, and maintaining the integrity of the game. Volunteer referees typically receive training from the organizing body and play a vital role in making community sports possible. Their involvement helps keep sports accessible and enjoyable for all participants.

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

To thrive as a Volunteer Referee, a solid understanding of the sport's rules, strong decision-making abilities, and basic physical fitness are essential, often supported by completion of introductory referee courses or workshops. Familiarity with digital scorekeeping systems or league management platforms can be beneficial, depending on the sport and organization. Excellent communication, impartiality, and the ability to stay calm under pressure help build trust with players, coaches, and spectators. These skills and qualities ensure fair play, uphold the integrity of the game, and create a positive sporting environment.
More about Volunteer Referee jobs
What cities are hiring for Volunteer Referee jobs? Cities with the most Volunteer Referee job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Referee jobs? The most popular types of Referee jobs are:
What states have the most Volunteer Referee jobs? States with the most job openings for Volunteer Referee jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Volunteer Referee jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Volunteer Referee jobs are:
Volunteer Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Volunteer Referee job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% Internship, 34% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 3% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 22% Nights. 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

Stanwood, WA • On-site

$17.80 - $19.40/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 7 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