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Youth Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Greater Joliet Area YMCA

Morris Youth Referee

Morris, IL · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Seeking a dynamic and committed Youth Referee to supervise competitive and non-competitive activities and enforce the rules of various sports activities. Creates a safe and positive atmosphere that ...

YMCA

Morris Youth Referee

Morris, IL · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Seeking a dynamic and committed Youth Referee to supervise competitive and non-competitive activities and enforce the rules of various sports activities. Creates a safe and positive atmosphere that ...

YMCA

Avery Soccer Referee

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Seeking a dynamic and committed Youth Referee to supervise competitive and non-competitive activities and enforce the rules of various sports activities. Creates a safe and positive atmosphere that ...

YMCA

Avery Flag Football Referee

Plainfield, IL · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Seeking a dynamic and committed Youth Referee to supervise competitive and non-competitive activities and enforce the rules of various sports activities. Creates a safe and positive atmosphere that ...

YMCA

Youth Sports Referee (Frankfort)

Frankfort, KY · On-site

The person must be able to take initiative, have strong time management skills and work independently in performing the duties of Youth Referees. The person must have excellent human relation skills ...

YMCA

Youth Sports Referee (Frankfort)

Frankfort, KY

The person must be able to take initiative, have strong time management skills and work independently in performing the duties of Youth Referees. The person must have excellent human relation skills ...

YMCA

Youth Sports Referee (Frankfort)

Frankfort, KY · On-site

The person must be able to take initiative, have strong time management skills and work independently in performing the duties of Youth Referees. The person must have excellent human relation skills ...

YMCA

Youth Sports Referee

Lexington, KY · On-site

The person must be able to take initiative, have strong time management skills and work independently in performing the duties of Youth Referees. The person must have excellent human relation skills ...

YMCA

Youth Sports Referee (Frankfort)

Frankfort, KY · On-site

The person must be able to take initiative, have strong time management skills and work independently in performing the duties of Youth Referees. The person must have excellent human relation skills ...

City of New Berlin

Youth Soccer Referee

New Berlin, WI · On-site

$25 - $35/hr

POSITION SUMMARY Under the supervision of the Recreation Program Specialist, the Youth Soccer Referee is responsible for rules enforcement and the supervision of participants in the program. The ...

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How much do youth referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for youth 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 youth referee?

Youth referees are individuals who officiate sports games involving young athletes, typically in leagues for children and teenagers. They are responsible for enforcing the rules of the game, ensuring fair play, and maintaining a safe environment for all participants. Youth referees often work in sports like soccer, basketball, and baseball, and may be teenagers or adults who have received specialized training and certification. Their role is crucial in teaching young players about sportsmanship and the rules of the sport. Many youth referees also serve as mentors and positive role models for young athletes.

What does a youth referee do?

A youth referee officiates during children’s sports league games. As a referee, you may focus on officiating one type of sport or handle the refereeing responsibilities for different sports. Your duties include watching the game and ensuring that players abide by the rules of play. You determine when a penalty, foul, or other infraction occurs. You also keep track of the score and time for the game and stop play when required by the rules or to ensure the safety of players. In some youth sports leagues, you monitor play and explain the rules to young players during the game.

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

To thrive as a Youth Referee, you need a solid understanding of the rules of the sport, usually demonstrated by completing a referee certification course and passing an exam. Familiarity with officiating tools like whistles, score sheets, and sometimes digital apps for tracking scores or fouls is commonly required. Strong communication, conflict resolution, and leadership skills are essential for managing young athletes, coaches, and parents. These abilities ensure fair play, maintain safety, and foster a positive experience for all participants in youth sports.

What are some common challenges youth referees face on the field, and how can they effectively handle them?

Youth Referees often encounter challenges such as managing enthusiastic parents, ensuring fair play among young athletes, and maintaining authority while fostering a positive experience for all participants. Effective communication, a calm demeanor, and a thorough understanding of the rules are crucial in these situations. Building rapport with coaches and players before the match and using clear, confident signals during play can help reduce misunderstandings and create a supportive environment.

What is the difference between Youth Referee vs Youth Coach?

AspectYouth RefereeYouth Coach
Required CredentialsReferee certification, safety trainingCoaching certification, first aid
Work EnvironmentSports fields, stadiumsTraining sessions, sports facilities
Employer & Industry UsageSports leagues, community programsSchools, sports clubs
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

While both Youth Referees and Youth Coaches work in youth sports, referees focus on officiating games and ensuring rules are followed, requiring certification and safety training. Coaches, on the other hand, develop players' skills and strategies, often holding coaching certifications. Their work environments differ, with referees mainly on the field and coaches in training sessions. Understanding these distinctions helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

How to become a youth referee?

To become a youth referee, individuals typically need to complete a certification course offered by local sports organizations or governing bodies, which covers rules, safety, and officiating skills. They must often pass a background check and may need to be at least 14 or 16 years old, depending on the league. Gaining experience through volunteering or assisting at youth games can also help in developing refereeing skills.
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What states have the most Youth Referee jobs?

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Youth Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Youth Referee job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $43,539 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

YOUTH REFEREE

Blaine County Recreation District

Hailey, ID • On-site

Temporary

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

POSITION: Referee / Umpire

CLASSIFICATION: Temporary, Non-Exempt

REPORT TO: Kyle Caddo

REVISED: July 2026

BCRD MISSION:Blaine County Recreation District provides healthy, active, and diverse recreational opportunities for our community. 


JOB SUMMARY

The Youth Sports Referee is responsible for officiating youth recreational sporting events in a fair, consistent, and professional manner while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for participants. This seasonal position enforces league rules, promotes sportsmanship, and helps create a positive environment for athletes, coaches, and spectators. The ideal candidate demonstrates sound judgment, effective communication skills, and a commitment to fostering youth development through recreation.


JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Officiate youth sports games in accordance with league rules and recreation program policies.
  • Enforce rules fairly, consistently, and impartially while maintaining control of games.
  • Promote good sportsmanship and respectful behavior among players, coaches, and spectators.
  • Ensure participant safety by monitoring game play and responding appropriately to unsafe conditions or conduct.
  • Conduct pre-game inspections of playing areas and equipment to identify and report safety concerns.
  • Start, manage, and end games according to established schedules and league procedures.
  • Communicate rule interpretations and game decisions clearly and professionally.
  • Resolve conflicts calmly and effectively while maintaining a positive game environment.
  • Complete game reports and incident documentation as required.
  • Attend required meetings, trainings, and officiating clinics.
  • Assist recreation staff with equipment setup and takedown as needed.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND QUALIFICATIONS
  • Knowledge of the rules and mechanics of one or more youth sports.
  • Previous officiating experience is preferred but not required; training may be provided.
  • Strong communication, conflict resolution, and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with children, coaches, parents, and recreation staff.
  • Successful completion of a background check as required for working with youth.
  • Minimum age requirement may apply based on program needs.
  • Ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 25 pounds.
  • Visual and auditory ability to observe game play, enforce rules, and respond to participant needs.

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