Basketball Referee

Location: Laguna Beach, CA, 92651 (Canyon Branch)

Classification: Non-Exempt or 1099 Contractor

Schedule: Schedule varies based on league, tournament, and program needs.

Pay Range: $30 per Game

Reports to: Athletic Director

Contact: Faye Cartmale, Chief Human Resources Officer

Mission

To empower and enable all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach their full potential as productive, caring, and responsible adults.

Established in 1952, the Boys & Girls Club of Laguna Beach, which also serves Saddleback Valley, is a 501(C)3 purpose-driven non-profit and a chartered member of the Boys & Girls Club of America. We are a nationwide organization composed of autonomous, community-based organizations that work at the local level to help young people of all backgrounds develop the qualities they need to become responsible adults and leaders.

Position Summary

The Basketball Referee is responsible for officiating youth basketball games in a fair, safe, consistent, and professional manner. Referees are expected to enforce league rules, maintain game control, promote sportsmanship, and provide a positive experience for youth participants, coaches, and spectators while ensuring a safe playing environment. This is an independent contractor (1099) position with assignments based on league schedules, tournaments, and organizational needs.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Officiate youth basketball games according to league and organization rules.


• Enforce game rules consistently, fairly, and impartially.


• Manage game flow, timing, and player conduct.


• Monitor participant safety and take appropriate action when unsafe conditions exist.


• Communicate clearly and professionally with coaches, players, scorekeepers, and spectators.


• Address conflicts or disputes calmly and professionally.


• Assess technical fouls, warnings, and disciplinary actions when appropriate.


• Arrive at assigned game locations at least 15–30 minutes prior to scheduled game times.


• Conduct pre-game equipment and court safety inspections.


• Complete required game reports and incident documentation when necessary.


• Attend referee meetings, trainings, and rule update sessions as required.


• Model positive behavior and sportsmanship that supports the organization's youth development mission.


• Follow all organizational policies regarding child safety, code of conduct, and mandated reporting requirements.

Qualifications

Required

• Minimum age of 18 years.


• Knowledge of basketball rules, regulations, and officiating mechanics.


• Ability to make decisions quickly and confidently under pressure.


• Strong verbal communication and conflict-resolution skills.


• Ability to maintain professionalism in a fast-paced environment.


• Reliable transportation to assigned game locations.


• Ability to pass required background screening and child abuse clearance checks as required by law and organizational policy.

Preferred

• Previous experience officiating youth, high school, or recreational basketball.


• Certification through a recognized basketball officiating organization.


• CPR/First Aid certification.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand, walk, run, and move continuously during games.


• Ability to observe play from various court positions.


• Ability to hear whistles, player interactions, and game officials.


• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally.


• Ability to work indoors and outdoors depending on facility location.

Work Schedule

• Primarily evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays.


• Schedule varies based on league, tournament, and program needs.


• Assignments are accepted on an as-needed basis.

Compensation

• Paid on a per-game or per-assignment basis.


• Compensation rates vary based on age division, experience, certification level, and event type.


• Independent contractors receive IRS Form 1099 and are responsible for all applicable taxes and business expenses.

Required Competencies

• Integrity and impartiality


• Sound judgment


• Professionalism


• Dependability


• Attention to detail


• Teamwork


• Youth-focused mindset


• Conflict management


• Strong customer service skills

Equal Opportunity Statement

The organization is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment for all participants, staff, volunteers, and contractors. Qualified individuals are considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected classification under applicable law.