Title: Safety Steward (Summer 2026)
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 Safety Steward is responsible for ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of all participants—both human and equine—during racing and training operations. This role monitors compliance with regulatory requirements, enforces safety protocols, and works collaboratively with racing officials, trainers, and operational staff to maintain a safe racing environment in accordance with applicable state racing commission rules and industry best practices. This is a seasonal position for the summer race meet at Colonial Downs.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Monitor all racing and training activities to ensure adherence to established safety standards and regulatory requirements
• Enforce safety rules related to jockey conduct, equipment usage, track conditions, and stable area operations
• Conduct inspections of racing surfaces, starting gates, equipment, and safety gear to identify hazards and ensure readiness
• Observe races and training sessions to identify unsafe conditions or behaviors and take immediate corrective action as necessary
• Collaborate with Stewards, veterinarians, track maintenance, and racing officials to address safety concerns
• Document and report incidents, accidents, injuries, and rule violations in a timely and accurate manner
• Participate in pre-race briefings and post-race reviews to evaluate safety performance and recommend improvements
• Ensure emergency response procedures are followed and assist during on-track incidents as needed
• Educate jockeys, trainers, and staff on safety expectations and regulatory compliance
• Maintain knowledge of state racing commission rules, industry standards, and evolving safety protocols
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
#colonialdownsracetrack
REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES
• Strong knowledge of horse racing operations, safety standards, and regulatory requirements
• Ability to observe, assess, and respond quickly to potentially hazardous situations
• Excellent judgment and decision-making skills under pressure
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to enforce rules in a fair, consistent, and professional manner
• High level of integrity and commitment to safety and compliance
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders in a fast-paced environment
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
• High school diploma or equivalent required; associate’s or bachelor’s degree preferred
• Prior experience in horse racing operations, regulatory compliance, or safety-related role strongly preferred
• Knowledge of applicable state racing commission rules (e.g., Virginia Racing Commission or equivalent) preferred
• Experience working with horses or within the equine industry highly desirable
• Other combinations of education and experience may be considered.
• Must obtain and maintain a Virginia Racing Commission racing license.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS
• The Team Member will be required to stand and walk for extended periods during race days.
• While performing the duties of this job, the Team Member is frequently required to stand; walk; use hands to handle equipment and paperwork; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.
• The Team Member may be required to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 25 pounds.
• The Team Member may be required to work long hours, including early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays, based on racing schedules.
• The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate to loud.
• The work environment may include exposure to outdoor weather conditions, crowds, and high levels of activity associated with live racing.
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.
Nearest Major Market: Richmond
