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Horse Racing Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Detention Barn Technician

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$20.51 - $23.61/hr

Monitor and enforce rules related to the detention and handling of horses after races at Canterbury Park. Verify and tag horses. * Escort horses and handlers to assigned stalls in the detention barn ...

Seasonal Turf Crew

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$16.50 - $20.50/hr

Description Experience the fun of working in the entertainment industry at Canterbury Park - home to live horse racing every summer and year round action in our Card Casino, Racebook and Expo Center.

Description Experience the fun of working in the entertainment industry at Canterbury Park - home to live horse racing every summer and year round action in our Card Casino, Racebook and Expo Center.

Seasonal Turf Crew

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$15 - $18.75/hr

Experience the fun of working in the entertainment industry at Canterbury Park - home to live horse racing every summer and year round action in our Card Casino, Racebook and Expo Center. Canterbury ...

Description Experience the fun of working in the entertainment industry at Canterbury Park - home to live horse racing every summer and year round action in our Card Casino, Racebook and Expo Center.

Seasonal Paramedic

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$32 - $43.20/hr

Experience the fun of working in the entertainment industry at Canterbury Park - home to live horse racing every summer and year round action in our Card Casino, Racebook and Expo Center. Canterbury ...

Accounts Payable Specialist

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$22.75 - $29.25/hr

Description Experience the excitement of working in the entertainment industry at Canterbury Park-home to thrilling live horse racing every summer and year-round action in our Card Casino, Racebook ...

Cage Cashier

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Experience the excitement of working in the entertainment industry at Canterbury Park--home to thrilling live horse racing every summer and year-round action in our Card Casino, Racebook, and Events.

Cage Cashier

Shakopee, MN · On-site

$16 - $19.25/hr

Experience the excitement of working in the entertainment industry at Canterbury Park--home to thrilling live horse racing every summer and year-round action in our Card Casino, Racebook, and Events.

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Horse Racing information

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How much do horse racing jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for horse racing in Minnesota is $15.67, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.02 and $18.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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?

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 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 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 equine care, and often certification or licensing, depending on the role. Each job contributes to the operation and success of horse racing events.

What are popular job titles related to Horse Racing jobs in Minnesota?

For Horse Racing jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Horse Racing job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,596 per year, or $15.7 per hour.

Detention Barn Technician

Minnesota Careers

Shakopee, MN • On-site

$20.51 - $23.61/hr

Part-time

Re-posted yesterday


State Of Minnesota rating

8.2

Company rating: 8.2 out of 10

Based on 174 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

4th of 50 rated states


Job description

Job Details
Working Title: Detention Barn Technician
Job Class: Agricultural Technician
Agency: Racing Commission
  • Job ID: 92256
  • Location: Shakopee
  • Telework Eligible: No
  • Full/Part Time: Part-Time
  • Regular/Temporary: Temporary
  • Who May Apply: Open to all qualified job seekers
  • Date Posted: 02/28/2026
  • Closing Date: 09/17/2026
  • Hiring Agency/Seniority Unit: Minnesota Racing Commission (MRC )
  • Division/Unit: Minnesota Racing Commission / MRC-Shakopee Barn
  • Work Shift/Work Hours: Varies
  • Days of Work: Varies
  • Travel Required: No
  • Salary Range: $20.51- $23.61/ hourly
  • Classified Status: Classified
  • Bargaining Unit/Union: 203 - Service/AFSCME
  • Work Area: Shakopee Barn
  • End Date: 09/19/2026
  • FLSA Status: Nonexempt
  • Designated in Connect 700 Program for Applicants with Disabilities : No

The work you'll do is more than just a job.
At the State of Minnesota, employees play a critical role in developing policies, providing essential services, and working to improve the well-being and quality of life for all Minnesotans. The State of Minnesota is committed to equity and inclusion, and invests in employees by providing benefits, support resources, and training and development opportunities.
Job Summary
THIS IS A 4.5-MONTH SEASONAL SUMMER POSITION THAT REQUIRES WORKING ON SUNDAYS AND HOLIDAYS.
The 2026 racing season is May 23, 2026, to September 19, 2026. Training for this position will begin on Saturday, May 2, 2026. Canterbury Park will conduct live racing on select Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sunday s. There will be no live racing on Friday, July 4, 2025. There are 55 days of live racing scheduled. Work hours are variable and flexible-typically between 4pm and 11pm.
Duties include but are not limited to:
  • Monitor and enforce rules related to the detention and handling of horses after races at Canterbury Park. Verify and tag horses.
  • Escort horses and handlers to assigned stalls in the detention barn.
  • Assist in obtaining appropriate urine and blood samples.
  • Ensure proper handling of samples to maintain a strict chain of custody.
  • Replace supplies in stalls.
  • Remain alert for safety and security hazards and report any violations of safety and security regulations.
  • Assist the Detention Barn Coordinator, Detention Barn Veterinarian and/or Chief Commission Veterinarian with other duties as requested.

Qualifications
Minimum Qualifications
  • Knowledge and experience working with horses.
  • Must be able to handle a horse in an emergency situation and summon immediate veterinary attention as required.
  • Written and oral communication skills sufficient to understand and follow procedures to identify horses and samples, complete forms, respond to inquiries, and report to coordinators or veterinarians as appropriate.

Preferred Qualifications
  • In pursuit of a degree in areas of veterinary medicine or animal sciences.
  • Fluent in written/spoken Spanish.
  • Familiar with HISA/HIWU.
  • Previous work experience with the Minnesota Racing Commission or within the racing and/or gaming industry.

Physical Requirements
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
  • Involves maintaining a stationary position.
  • Involves frequent moving and positioning of self to accomplish work tasks.
  • Involves moving through uneven terrain.
  • Requires working outdoors in all weather conditions.
  • Must be able totransportup to 40 lbs.

Additional Requirements
Successful applicants must pass background and employment reference checks required for all employees of the Minnesota Racing Commission. A Criminal history does not automatically disqualify an applicant, and each case will be reviewed individually in alignment with fair hiring practices.
Application Details
How to Apply
Select "Apply for Job" at the top of this page. If you have questions about applying for jobs, contact the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us . For additional information about the application process, go to http://www.mn.gov/careers .
Contact
If you have questions about this position, contact Nella Austin at nella.austin@state.mn.us .
About the MN Racing Commission
The Minnesota Racing Commission operates in the public interest to ensure the integrity of horse racing and card playing, to oversee the proper distribution of funds back into the industry, and to provide for the safety and welfare of the human and equine participants. The Racing Commission works to promote the horse racing and breeding industry in Minnesota to provide economic stimulus, offer residents and visitors an exciting entertainment option, and support agriculture and rural agribusiness. Visit https://mn.gov/mrc for more information.
Working together to improve the state we love.
What do Minnesota's State employees have in common?
  • A sense of purpose in their work
  • Connection with their coworkers and communities
  • Opportunities for personal and professional growth

Benefits
Your benefits may include:
  • Resources that provide support and promote physical, emotional, social, and financial well-being.

Support to help you reach your career goals:
  • Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (Some positions may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program. For more information, visit the Federal Student Aid website at studentaid.gov )
  • Training, classes, and professional development.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for work/life support:
  • A voluntary confidential program that helps employees and their families with life challenges that may impact overall health, personal well-being, or job performance.
  • Common sources of stress can be addressed through the EAP: mental health, relationship challenges (personal and work), grief and loss, finances, and legal issues.
  • Daily Living/Convenience Services: Chore services, home repair, trip planning, child/elder care.

Programs, resources and benefits eligibility varies based on type of employment, agency, funding availability, union/collective bargaining agreement, location, and length of service with the State of Minnesota.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYERS
Minnesota state agencies are equal opportunity, affirmative action, and veteran-friendly employers. State agencies are committed to creating a workforce that reflects the diversity of the state and strongly encourages persons of color and Indigenous communities, members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community, individuals with disabilities, women, and veterans to apply. The varied experiences and perspectives of employees strengthen the work we do together and our ability to best serve Minnesotans.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and disabilities related to pregnancy or childbirth), gender identity, gender expression, marital status, familial status, age, sexual orientation, status regarding public assistance, disability, veteran status or activity in a local Human Rights Commission or any other characteristic protected by law.
APPLICANTS WITH DISABILITIES
Minnesota state agencies make reasonable accommodations to their employees and applicants with disabilities. If you have a disability and need assistance in searching or applying for jobs with the State of Minnesota, call the Careers Help Desk at 651-259-3637 or email careers@state.mn.us and let us know the support you need.

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About State of Minnesota

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Minnesota State Demographic Center (SDC), part of the Minnesota Department of Administration, is the main provider of demographic data and analysis for the state of Minnesota. The SDC assists policymakers, state and local governments, businesses, nonprofits, the media, and all Minnesotans locate and understand the demographic data they need to make smart decisions.

Industry

Public administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Saint Paul, MN, US

Year founded

1967

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