Safety Steward (Summer 2026)

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

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
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Virginia Racing Commission racing license

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
• High school diploma or equivalent required
• 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

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING CONDITIONS:
• Ability to stand, walk, and remain alert for extended periods during races and training sessions
• Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions
• Ability to respond quickly in emergency situations, including navigating uneven terrain
• Must be available to work flexible hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and race days

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 accommodation 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.