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Horse Racing Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

State of Virginia

Executive Assistant #W0087

New Kent, VA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

General Public - G Job Duties The Virginia Racing Commission is vested with control of all horse racing with pari-mutuel wagering in the Commonwealth with plenary power to prescribe regulations and ...

Virginia Jobs

Executive Assistant

New Kent, VA · On-site

$30 - $50/hr

General Public - G Job Duties The Virginia Racing Commission is vested with control of all horse racing with pari-mutuel wagering in the Commonwealth with plenary power to prescribe regulations and ...

Churchill Downs Incorporated

Bartender

Dumfries, VA · On-site

... Horse Racing machines, and over 80 acres of green space. The Rose Gaming Resort generates an estimated $35.5 million in annual tax revenues and employs more than 500 team members. JOB SUMMARY ...

The Rose Gaming Resort

Barback

Dumfries, VA · On-site

... Horse Racing machines, and over 80 acres of green space. The Rose Gaming Resort generates an estimated $35.5 million in annual tax revenues and employs more than 500 team members. JOB SUMMARY ...

The Rose Gaming Resort

Bartender

Dumfries, VA · On-site

... Horse Racing machines, and over 80 acres of green space. The Rose Gaming Resort generates an estimated $35.5 million in annual tax revenues and employs more than 500 team members. JOB SUMMARY ...

Churchill Downs Incorporated

Barback

Dumfries, VA · On-site

... Horse Racing machines, and over 80 acres of green space. The Rose Gaming Resort generates an estimated $35.5 million in annual tax revenues and employs more than 500 team members. JOB SUMMARY ...

Churchill Downs Incorporated

Bartender

Dumfries, VA · On-site

... Horse Racing machines, and over 80 acres of green space. The Rose Gaming Resort generates an estimated $35.5 million in annual tax revenues and employs more than 500 team members. JOB SUMMARY ...

Churchill Downs Incorporated

Barback

Dumfries, VA · On-site

... Horse Racing machines, and over 80 acres of green space. The Rose Gaming Resort generates an estimated $35.5 million in annual tax revenues and employs more than 500 team members. JOB SUMMARY ...

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All JobsHorse Racing JobsHorse Racing Jobs in Virginia

Horse Racing information

See Virginia salary details

$7

$15

$22

How much do horse racing jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for horse racing in Virginia is $15.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.16 and $19.09 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 are popular job titles related to Horse Racing jobs in Virginia? For Horse Racing jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Horse Racing jobs in Virginia look for? The top searched job categories for Horse Racing jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Horse Racing jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Horse Racing job openings:
Horse Racing jobs near you
Infographic showing various Horse Racing job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 89% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $32,995 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Racing Valet (Summer 2026)

Colonial Downs Racetrack

New Kent, VA • On-site

$12.75 - $16.75/hr

Temporary

Posted 6 days ago

Job description

Colonial Downs Group (CDG) is owned and operated by Churchill Downs Incorporated and consists of several different brands across Virginia: Colonial Downs Racetrack, Rosie’s Gaming Emporium, Rosie’s Game Room, and Virginia Horseplay. CDG is an inclusive and fun place to work. We celebrate unique approaches and points of view. We believe diversity is a mindset that drives excellence. We’re always learning, evolving, and growing. We innovate through mutual respect of ideas and collaboration. This allows us to build a common language that inspires our team members and propels us toward the achievement of our vision.

JOB SUMMARY

Responsible for supporting racing operations by assisting jockeys, trainers, and officials in the paddock and on race days to ensure races are conducted safely, efficiently, and in accordance with racing regulations. This is a seasonal position for the summer race meet at Colonial Downs.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Assists jockeys in the paddock prior to and following races, including escorting jockeys to and from the paddock and starting gate areas.
  • Ensures jockeys are properly equipped with required safety gear, silks, saddle cloths, and identification prior to each race.
  • Assists with weighing jockeys in and out in accordance with racing regulations.
  • Coordinates with trainers, outriders, starters, and racing officials to ensure smooth race flow and timely post parades.
  • Maintains order and organization within the paddock area to promote safety for horses, jockeys, and staff.
  • Monitors paddock conditions and reports any safety concerns, irregularities, or issues to racing officials.
  • Provides professional and courteous assistance to internal and external guests, demonstrating Company service standards at all times.
  • Adheres to all Virginia Racing Commission regulations, Company policies, and departmental procedures.
  • Resolves issues within the scope of authority and escalates matters beyond that scope to the appropriate supervisor.
  • Performs other related duties as assigned.
     

#colonialdownsracetrack

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES
  • Knowledge of Thoroughbred racing operations, paddock procedures, and racing terminology.
  • Ability to work calmly and effectively around horses in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Ability to follow detailed instructions and comply with strict regulatory requirements.
  • Ability to multitask and maintain organization during live racing events.
  • Demonstrated professionalism, discretion, and attention to detail.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
  • High school diploma or equivalent required.
  • Prior experience in horse racing operations, paddock duties, or stable work preferred.
  • Other combinations of education and experience may be considered.
  • Must obtain and maintain a valid Virginia Racing Commission racing license.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS
  • The Team Member will be required to stand and walk for the duration of the shift.
  • While performing the duties of this job, the Team Member is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, reach, handle, or feel objects, equipment, tack, or animals; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; bend, stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl; and talk or hear.
  • The Team Member may be required to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.
  • The Team Member may be required to work long hours, including early mornings, nights, weekends, holidays, and all live race days.
  • The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.
  • The work environment may include outdoor conditions, crowds, animals, varying weather, and other elements associated with live racing operations.
     

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by a Team Member to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.

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