Title: Horse Identifier
New Kent, VA, US, 23124
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
The Horse Identifier is responsible for verifying the identification of all horses in the facilities. This is a seasonal position for the March race meet at Colonial Downs.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Works in conjunction and under the direction of race judges
• Oversees the clocking of horses during morning workouts
• Verifies the identification of all horses coming into the paddock area
• Reports discrepancies in tattoos, color, or markings of the horses to race judges
• Maintains compliance with state racing commission regulations
• Performs other related duties as assigned
REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES
- Strong knowledge of Thoroughbred horse identification methods and physical characteristics.
- High attention to detail and ability to accurately compare horses to official records.
- Ability to exercise sound judgment and make objective determinations under time-sensitive conditions.
- Excellent observational and documentation skills.
- Ability to communicate clearly and professionally with racing officials, horsemen, and management.
- Ability to work independently while adhering strictly to regulatory procedures.
- Demonstrated integrity, discretion, and professionalism.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Prior experience in Thoroughbred racing, horse handling, stable operations, veterinary support, or racing administration strongly preferred.
- Experience with horse identification (tattoos, microchips, markings, registration papers) preferred.
- Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
- Must obtain and maintain a Virginia Racing Commission license
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS
• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to moving mechanical parts, fumes or airborne particles, outside weather conditions, and vibration.
• The employee is frequently required to stand, walk, climb, balance, push, pull, lift, reach, twist, and bend while enduring prolonged periods of standing and walking.
• The employee may be required to lift and/or move up to 10 lbs.
• The employee may be required to work long hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.
• The work environment may vary in levels of crowds, noise, and smoke.
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.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.
Nearest Major Market: Richmond
