Racing Starter Assistant: Gate Ops & Horse Handling

Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots; New Orleans (LA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans is seeking an Assistant Starter to support the racing starting team under the Head Starter. The role combines horse handling, gate operations, and related duties to ensure safe, efficient starts for each race.

Candidates must be at least 21, able to obtain a racing license, and have knowledge of Thoroughbred horses with the ability to handle heavy horses. Prior experience as an Assistant Starter is preferred; strong communication and problem-solving skills

Qualifications

• Must be 21 years of age and able to obtain a racing license.
• Knowledge of Thoroughbred horses; ability to handle horses weighing 900+ pounds.
• Preferably 1–2 years prior experience as an Assistant Starter.
• Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos.
• Ability to write simple correspondence; effective one-on-one communication.

Responsibilities

• Serves as right hand for the Head Starter.
• Maintain a log of horses at the gate during training; record handling details (Marks).
• Load horses into starting gate as directed; ensure accurate gate numbers.
• Report problems with horses or gate to Head Starter.
• Maintain and clean the starting gate; inspect batteries and equipment.
• Assist with morning schooling and gate readiness; coordinate with trainer.

Skills

Horse handling

Reading & writing

Customer interaction

Problem solving

Job description

Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans is seeking an Assistant Starter to support the racing starting team under the Head Starter. The role combines horse handling, gate operations, and related duties to ensure safe, efficient starts for each race.

Candidates must be at least 21, able to obtain a racing license, and have knowledge of Thoroughbred horses with the ability to handle heavy horses. Prior experience as an Assistant Starter is preferred; strong communication and problem-solving skills