ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Horse Racing Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Jack Entertainment

Racing Steward

Cleveland, OH · On-site

$14.50 - $20/hr

Select horses to be sent to the State Detention barn for post-race blood/urinalysis testing * Determine track conditions * Operate the "Stop Wagering" signal at the start of each race * Confer with ...

The KY Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation

Be Seen First

Thoroughbred Program Coordinator

Lexington, KY · On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Works closely with Kentucky racetracks reconciling additional purse money at the end of a race meet for eligible Kentucky-bred horses. Provides Director and Assistant Director with accurate reporting ...

New York Racing Association

$66K - $80K/yr

This is an exciting opportunity to combine a passion for horse racing, a unique ability to form impactful relationships, and the opportunity to help shape the future of the Racing Relations program ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsHorse Racing Jobs

Horse Racing information

See salary details

$7

$16

$23

How much do horse racing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for horse racing in the United States is $16.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.26 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How Can I Get a Horse Racing Job?

The qualifications for each position in the horse racing industry vary greatly. You should have prior experience for the job for which you are applying. Racetrack security personnel, for instance, should have previous security positions on their resume. Administrative positions often require a bachelor’s degree in business, while veterinarians need their doctorate and any necessary licenses or certifications. Trainers work as assistants before taking on this role and pursuing their professional licensure. Jockeys must meet strict weight and height requirements, display racing skills, and possess a jockey’s license. Look at online job board listings to gain a better understanding of what your desired position requires.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Horse Racing Jockey, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Horse Racing Jockey, you need expert riding ability, a deep understanding of horse behavior, and often completion of apprentice programs or licensing requirements. Familiarity with racing equipment, weight management practices, and race-day protocols is essential. Strong soft skills like quick decision-making, resilience, and excellent communication with trainers and owners set top jockeys apart. These skills are critical for ensuring safety, achieving peak performance, and building successful partnerships in a competitive racing environment.

What are horse racing jobs?

Horse racing jobs encompass a variety of roles involved in the breeding, training, care, and racing of horses. Common positions include jockeys, trainers, grooms, exercise riders, stewards, and racecourse staff. These professionals work together to ensure horses are healthy, well-prepared, and able to compete safely and successfully. Horse racing jobs can be physically demanding and often require early mornings and weekend work. Many roles require specialized knowledge of horses and a passion for the sport.

What is the most paid equine job?

The most highly paid equine job is typically that of a top-level racehorse trainer or a successful thoroughbred trainer, especially those who own or manage prestigious stables. These professionals can earn significant income through training fees, race winnings, and ownership stakes, with top trainers earning millions annually. Experience, reputation, and success in major races influence earning potential in this field.

How much does a horse racer get paid?

Horse racers, also known as jockeys, typically earn a base salary plus a percentage of race winnings, with top jockeys earning hundreds of thousands of dollars annually. Many earn around $50,000 to $150,000 per year, depending on experience, success, and the number of races they participate in. Additional income may come from endorsements and sponsorships, but earnings vary widely based on skill and reputation.

What is the difference between Horse Racing vs Jockey?

AspectHorse RacingJockey
Required CredentialsNone mandatory, but racing licenses may be neededRacing license, riding certifications
Work EnvironmentRacecourses, stables, outdoor tracksRacecourses, training facilities, outdoor tracks
Employer & Industry UsageRacing organizations, tracks, stablesRacing teams, trainers, stables
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding racing activities, eventsRiding skills, race participation

Horse Racing involves organizing and managing racing events, while a Jockey is a professional rider who participates in races. Horse Racing covers the broader industry, including event management and track operations, whereas Jockeys focus on riding and competing in races. Both roles are integral to the racing industry but differ in responsibilities and credentials.

What are the different types of horse racing jobs?

Horse racing jobs include roles such as jockeys, trainers, grooms, stable hands, track officials, and race organizers. These positions require specific skills, knowledge of racing rules, and often physical fitness or certifications. Each role contributes to the operation and success of horse racing events.

What are common challenges faced by professionals working in the horse racing industry?

Professionals in the horse racing industry often face challenges such as early morning hours, physically demanding work, and the need to quickly respond to the unpredictable nature of working with horses. The fast-paced environment requires strong teamwork between trainers, jockeys, grooms, and veterinarians to ensure horse welfare and race readiness. Additionally, maintaining compliance with safety and regulatory standards is crucial, and adapting to frequent schedule changes is a common part of the job.

What are careers that work with horses?

Careers that work with horses include roles such as equine veterinarian, horse trainer, riding instructor, stable manager, farrier, and groom. These jobs often require knowledge of horse care, riding skills, and sometimes certifications or licenses, depending on the specific role and responsibilities.
More about Horse Racing jobs
What cities are hiring for Horse Racing jobs? Cities with the most Horse Racing job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Horse Racing jobs? The most popular types of Horse Racing jobs are:
What states have the most Horse Racing jobs? States with the most job openings for Horse Racing jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Horse Racing jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Horse Racing jobs are:
Horse Racing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horse Racing job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, and 9% Part Time. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,281 per year, or $16 per hour.

Horse Racing Safety Director

Remington Park Racing & Casino

Oklahoma City, OK • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

General Definition: Under the direct supervision of the Senior Director of Safety and Racing Operations (SDSRO) at Remington Park, the Safety Director (Racing) is to carry out the provisions set forth in the rules of racing in Oklahoma and Texas that concentrate on safety and welfare while following federal guidelines as set forth by HISA (Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority). 

  • Shall oversee equine safety, racetrack safety, risk management and injury prevention of horses/individuals.
  • Will create a culture of safety for horses, riders, and Remington Park personnel.
  • Ensure that all activities and practices meet required safety standards.
  • Maintain and annually review standard operating procedures and protocols related to safety.
  • Coordinate and oversee emergency drills that include equine injury, starting gate malfunction, and hazardous weather affecting the track.
  • Follow all HISA reporting deadlines.
  • Interact with HISA concerning Racetrack Safety Accreditation compliance.
  • Coordinate with Association Veterinarians to ensure compliance with veterinarian related rules.
  • Daily monitoring activities and practices in the barn area and on the racetrack for compliance with applicable company policies, OHRC/TXRC safety regulations, and HISA rules.
  • Operate as the association steward during the Remington Park thoroughbred meet to enforce HISA rules 2200.
  • Conduct hearings on all possible HISA 2200 rule infractions and submit all related rulings to HISA.
  • Oversee HISA Accreditation and be responsible for compiling all documentation for the annual audit.
  • Conduct pre-meet racetrack safety inspections independently or with licensing enforcement personnel or HISA personnel.
  • Make recommendations to licensing bodies to ensure the integrity of racing and compliance with state and federal laws and regulations.
  • Assist persons with HISA registration.
  • Monitor Outriders, Jockeys, Gate Crew Members, Medical Personnel, Horsemen, and Exercise Riders.
  • Monitor safety equipment (Vest, Whips and Helmets).
  • Answer questions with regards to rules and regulations.
  • Perform all other duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Minimum required experience in one or more of the following categories
    • 5 years’ experience in the pari-mutuel horse racing industry as a licensed trainer or jockey
    • 10 years’ experience in the pari-mutuel horse racing industry as a licensed owner whose experience, knowledge, ability, and integrity relative to the industry are known to the association
    • 3 years’ experience as a licensed racing official, Racing Secretary, Assistant Racing secretary, or Director of Racing
    • Experience in the horse racing industry of a character and for a length of time sufficient, in the opinion of the Association, to be substantially equivalent to the requirements listed above

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Must be able to work independently while also being effective at working with others.
  • Have a strong attention to detail.
  • Able to analyze situations, identify solutions, and implement them effectively.
  • Ability to work a flexible and irregular schedule including weekends, evenings and holidays
  • Working knowledge of the Commission Rules of Racing
  • Thorough understanding of HISA as it applies to racing in the state of Oklahoma.
  • Ability to establish the MQS (Maintenance Quality System) and input racetrack surface data to the authority as required
  • This position is prohibited from wagering on any horse race over which HISA has jurisdiction and if prohibited from owning in whole or part of any horse which races at HISA regulated racetracks
  • Must be able to work in a smoke-filled casino environment

Training:      

  • Must be able to pass Title 31 Training
  • The applicant must be or have the ability to be accredited through the Racing Officials Accreditation Program as a Steward, meet the experience and continuing education requirements of the program, and be in good standing with all racing jurisdictions

Licenses/Certifications/Other: 

  • Must be able to pass a background check and receive a license or permit from any Regulatory Agency if applicable to perform the essential job functions
  • Must have ROAP Steward Accreditation  
  • Must be able to complete a pre-employment drug test with a negative result

Apply