Safety Steward (Summer 2026)

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 SUMMARYThe 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 RESPONSIBILITIESMonitor all racing and training activities to ensure adherence to established safety standards and regulatory requirementsEnforce safety rules related to jockey conduct, equipment usage, track conditions, and stable area operationsConduct inspections of racing surfaces, starting gates, equipment, and safety gear to identify hazards and ensure readinessObserve races and training sessions to identify unsafe conditions or behaviors and take immediate corrective action as necessaryCollaborate with Stewards, veterinarians, track maintenance, and racing officials to address safety concernsDocument and report incidents, accidents, injuries, and rule violations in a timely and accurate mannerParticipate in pre-race briefings and post-race reviews to evaluate safety performance and recommend improvementsEnsure emergency response procedures are followed and assist during on-track incidents as neededEducate jockeys, trainers, and staff on safety expectations and regulatory complianceMaintain knowledge of state racing commission rules, industry standards, and evolving safety protocolsPerforms other related duties as assigned.#colonialdownsracetrackREQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIESStrong knowledge of horse racing operations, safety standards, and regulatory requirementsAbility to observe, assess, and respond quickly to potentially hazardous situationsExcellent judgment and decision-making skills under pressureStrong written and verbal communication skillsAbility to enforce rules in a fair, consistent, and professional mannerHigh level of integrity and commitment to safety and complianceAbility to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders in a fast-paced environmentEDUCATION AND EXPERIENCEHigh school diploma or equivalent required; associate's or bachelor's degree preferredPrior experience in horse racing operations, regulatory compliance, or safety-related role strongly preferredKnowledge of applicable state racing commission rules (e.g., Virginia Racing Commission or equivalent) preferredExperience working with horses or within the equine industry highly desirableOther combinations of education and experience may be considered.Must obtain and maintain a Virginia Racing Commission racing license.PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONSThe 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.Work With UsChurchill Downs Incorporated 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.Already Work Here?Here's a link to apply internally:Employee Login