Valet

General Definition:

The Horse Valet assists with the horse tack, saddling of horses and cleaning of all equipment; may maintain the jockey’s wardrobe and ensures that the proper uniform is worn for each horse; provides labor support to higher level staff; and performs related tasks within area

Essential Job Functions: 

• Prepares and organizes each rider for various races; sets out all equipment, including helmets and helmet covers, whips, boots, etc.; and makes the riders saddle available for each weigh out time.
• Ensure proper weight for assigned jockeys.
• Assist in the saddling the horses in the paddock prior to the race under the direction of the trainer or assistant trainer of the horse.
• Checks that each rider is wearing the proper silks, helmet cover and arm number.
• Removes tack from horses after each race and takes to jockeys room; may tighten and/or loosen over and under girths and unsaddle the horses.
• Provides racing forms for each jockey; marks programs with scratches and highlighted mounts; ensures saddle and saddle pad are taken to the paddock and helps the trainer saddle the horse.
• Transfer equipment from the Jockeys’ Room to the Paddock.
• Transfer equipment from the racetrack to the Jockeys’ Room after the race.
• Maintaining the needs of the Jockey each day racing is held. • The Valet Room needs to be kept in good condition at all times.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Education:

• Completion of high school diploma or GED
• Racing Official Accreditation Program (ROAP) accreditation preferred

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Thorough knowledge of horse and rider’s racing equipment and saddling for horses.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to maintain a calm, composed presence in an often-challenging environment where multiple tasks and events may occur simultaneously. • Must be able to work independently and in team environment
• Ability to work a flexible and irregular schedule including weekends, evenings and holidays
• Ability to enter a smoke-filled environment as needed OR Must be able to work in a smoke-filled casino environment Training and Experience:
• At least One (1) year of experience as a racing valet. Racetrack jockey or outrider experienced preferred

Licenses/Certifications/Other: 

• Must be able to pass a background check and receive a license or permit from any Regulatory Agency if applicable to perform the essential job functions
• Must be able to complete a pre-employment drug test with a negative result