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Youth Sport Referee Jobs (NOW HIRING)

i9 Sports

Youth Sports Referee

Wake Forest, NC · On-site

$13 - $15/hr

It's the way youth sports should be. What does your company do? Job Summary The referee is ... the sport(s) that you ref * Arrive on time to each scheduled shift * Communicate important game ...

ymcadetroit

Level 2 Sports Referee

Farmington, MI

Thorough knowledge of the sport and ability to enforce rules effectively. * Excellent communication ... Recites the Youth Sports Pledge to promote sportsmanship and respect. * Creates a positive and ...

ymcadetroit

Level 2 Sports Referee

Farmington, MI

Thorough knowledge of the sport and ability to enforce rules effectively. * Excellent communication ... Recites the Youth Sports Pledge to promote sportsmanship and respect. * Creates a positive and ...

YMCA

Basketball Instructor and Referee

Madison, WI · On-site

Youth Sports Referee - East YMCA If you're looking to make a difference in a child's life while helping create a fun, positive, and educational sports experience, join the YMCA of Dane County as a ...

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How much do youth sport referee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for youth sport 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 sport referee?

Youth sport referees are officials who oversee games and competitions for children and teenagers in various sports. Their main responsibilities include enforcing the rules, ensuring fair play, and maintaining a safe environment for all participants. They make crucial decisions during games, such as calling fouls or determining if a goal is valid. Youth sport referees often work with coaches, players, and parents to help young athletes learn the rules and values of good sportsmanship.

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

To thrive as a Youth Sport Referee, you need a solid understanding of game rules, strong decision-making abilities, and often a referee certification specific to the sport. Familiarity with scorekeeping systems, timing equipment, and sometimes online scheduling tools is typically required. Excellent communication, conflict resolution, and impartiality are vital soft skills for managing young athletes, coaches, and parents. These skills ensure fair play, safety, and a positive sporting environment for all participants.

What are some typical challenges youth sport referees face during games, and how can they effectively handle them?

Youth Sport Referees often encounter challenges such as managing emotional reactions from players, coaches, and parents, as well as enforcing rules consistently across varying skill levels. Effective communication and conflict resolution skills are essential for diffusing tense situations and maintaining a positive sporting environment. Referees can benefit from ongoing training, mentorship, and peer support to navigate these challenges and foster fair play. Building rapport with the teams and staying calm under pressure are key to success in this role.

What is the difference between Youth Sport Referee vs Youth Sports Coach?

AspectYouth Sport RefereeYouth Sports Coach
CertificationsUsually requires officiating certifications or trainingRequires coaching certifications or training
Work EnvironmentOn-field officiating during gamesTraining sessions and game strategy planning
Employer & IndustryLeagues, schools, sports clubsSchools, sports clubs, community programs
Primary RoleEnforce rules, make game callsDevelop skills, motivate players

While both Youth Sport Referees and Youth Sports Coaches work in youth sports environments, referees focus on officiating and enforcing game rules, requiring specific officiating certifications. Coaches concentrate on training, strategy, and player development, often holding coaching certifications. Understanding these differences helps parents and organizations choose the right role for their youth sports programs.

How to become a youth sport referee?

To become a youth sport referee, individuals typically need to complete training or certification courses specific to the sport, which cover rules and officiating techniques. Many leagues require referees to be at least 14 or 16 years old and to pass a background check; some also require first aid certification. Gaining experience through assistant officiating or shadowing can help develop skills for officiating youth sports effectively.
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Youth Sport Referee jobs near you
Infographic showing various Youth Sport Referee job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% Internship, 50% Full Time, 46% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $43,539 per year, or $20.9 per hour.

Part-time Youth Sports Referee

Rancho Simi Recreation and Park District

Simi Valley, CA • On-site

$17.90 - $19.10/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 27 days ago

Job description

THE POSITIONUnder coordination of the Recreation Coordinator the position is to perform the duties and responsibilities of the Youth Sports Referee to the best of their ability and as a reasonable and prudent individual. This is a part-time, seasonal position. Works evenings, weekends and holidays; hours and schedule may vary.EXAMPLE OF DUTIESThe essential functions of this position include but are not limited to:Learns and understands the rules of the sport referring.Referees youth sports in a game setting.Maintains control of the game while instructing participants on proper procedures and rules.Applies the rules fairly.Helps facilitate the overall positive experience of the youth participating in the program.The position may perform other related non-essential work as assigned. EMPLOYMENT STANDARDSApplicants must be 16 years of age at time of hire. Applicants under 18 years of age must obtain a valid work permit. Knowledge of the sport is important and needed to officiate in the league. Applicants must attend the District youth sport staff training sessions.PHYSICAL ACTIVITY REQUIREMENTSThis position requires standing and/or walking approximately 70% of the time or more. Some lifting, carrying, and pushing/pulling loads of up to 30 pounds; some bending, kneeling/squatting, reaching overhead/stretching; occasional climbing of stairs, some climbing of ladders, some handling and dexterity. Position works indoors.
Job Posted by ApplicantPro