Find your way into the industry.

There is more than one way to work in racing

Hands-on work includes grooming, farm care, night watch, exercise riding, training, and harness driving. Other routes include veterinary practice, farriery, transport, sales preparation, race-office work, technology, hospitality, and communications. Some roles require extensive qualifications or licensing. The USTA’s youth resources include a guide covering careers across harness racing, from horse care to business administration.

Match the first job to the experience you actually have

Write down your horse-handling experience, equipment skills, availability, and references. Separate supervised experience from tasks you can perform independently. If you are new to horses, ask employers about genuinely supervised entry-level work rather than presenting yourself as an experienced handler. Ask what training is provided, who supervises you, and which tasks are outside your role.

Ask these questions before accepting an offer

Clarify pay, normal hours, days off, weekend and night requirements, and how extra hours are handled. If housing is offered, ask about cost, occupants, transport, and what happens when employment ends. Confirm whether a license, driving record, work authorization, or particular qualification is required. Request the terms in writing and speak directly with the employer using independently confirmed contact information.

Build a route beyond the first position

Choose the skill you want to develop next and identify who can teach it. Compare program entry requirements, tuition, housing, transport, and placement support before applying. Keep a record of training and references. A farm role, a formal training program, and an office or technology role are different routes; the right choice depends on your strengths and the work you want to do.

Find a job

Browse published opportunities at these careers pages, then confirm availability and apply directly with the employer or publisher. These are outside job resources, not Racehorse Connect vacancies.

• Thoroughbred Daily News · Job Listings ↗Industry careers advertised through TDN.
• Keeneland · Employment ↗Explore the organization’s employment page and openings.
• U.S. Trotting Association · Careers ↗Positions with the USTA, when available.
• Find farms & potential employers →Research local operations. A directory entry does not mean the business is hiring.