Racing Valet / Saddle Horses - Iowa

Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack & Hotel located in Altoona, Iowa.

POSITION TITLE: Racing Valet

DEPARTMENT: Racing

TYPE OF POSITION: Seasonal

2021 RACING SEASON DATES: April 30 - September 25 (84-day Mixed Breed Season / Thoroughbred & Quarter Horse); Race days are typically Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday with late afternoon or evening racing. 

JOB DUTIES: Saddling horses for each race. Help maintain equipment for jockeys (saddles, boots, etc.) Checks that each rider is wearing the proper silks, helmet cover and arm number. Help maintain a clean Jockey’s Quarters for fellow valets and jockeys. Ensure proper weight for assigned jockeys. Assist Trainers with equipment adjustments in the Paddock. Unsaddle assigned horses after each race. Regular and reliable attendance knowing that this position will require working on weekends and some holidays. Performs other duties as assigned.

PHYSICAL CAPACITIES & ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS: Indoor and outdoor environment. Heavy physical demands. Able to push, pull & lift 50 lbs.

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE: Minimum of one-year prior experience in the field preferred with a working knowledge and ability to handle horses.

LICENSURE: Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission

SKILLS: Thorough knowledge of horse and rider’s racing equipment and saddling for horses.  Ability to communicate and interact verbally and in writing with people of diverse backgrounds.

This position requires acknowledgment, understanding and adherence to the Mutual Respect Policy. This position requires that co-workers and others be treated with respect, honesty, consideration and cooperation. This position serves "at will" however, two weeks working notice is the proper period.

Interested applicants will need to contact the Racing Office at Prairie Meadows and request an employee application sent by postal mail, email or by fax and return it along with a resume to the Prairie Meadows Racing Office. Applicants must be able to pass pre-employment screening, which includes physical/drug screen as well as background check and approval by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission in order to be licensed and hired for this position.