Union Van Driver

The New York Racing Association; Elmont (NY); On-site; USD 45,460 - 46,838; Full time

Job summary

The New York Racing Association is looking for a Union Van Driver to manage the transportation of horses and related equipment among racetracks. Key responsibilities include scheduling pickups and performing inspections on vehicles to ensure safe transport.

The ideal candidate must have at least 5-7 years of experience with horses in the racing industry, a valid CDL, and a strong understanding of horse transport logistics. A competitive hourly wage of $33.49 is offered for this essential role.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5-7 years working with horses in the racing industry, knowledge of horse transport.
• Valid medical card and clean driving record required.
• Ability to handle moderate to extreme danger working around racehorses.

Responsibilities

• Transport horses between NYRA racetracks according to schedule.
• Coordinate pickup times and report issues to management.
• Perform pre and post trip inspections of trucks and trailers.

Skills

Experience with horses in racing

CDL

DOT training

Ability to work weekends and holidays

Education

High school graduate or GED

Job description

Union Van Driver

Job Overview: Transports and aids in the facilitation of transporting horses and related equipment and services between NYRA racetracks. Decides which horses are compatible for travel together and determines layout of vans accordingly. Works with supervisor to coordinate pickup times and subsequently coordinates pickup with trainers, assistant trainers, or foremen/forewomen. Documents comprehensive transportation schedule daily. Reports activities and important matters to Manager, Stable Area. Performs pre and post trip inspections of truck and trailers and reports any issues to the Manager, Stable Area. Responsible for the routine care and cleaning of the inside and outside of trucks and trailers.

Essential Functions

• Collects schedule from Manager, Stable Area or Stall/Vanning Coordinator at the start of each shift.
• Performs pre‑trip inspections of truck and trailer and documents per DOT regulations.
• Ensures truck is fueled and trailer is bedded with straw; contacts Manager, Stable Area with any mechanical issues of the track and trailer.
• Picks up and drops off horses based on schedules provided. Instructs attendants for location of loading horses and equipment on trailers.
• Contacts Manager, Stable Area with any issues or concerns related to horses, attendants, chutes, accidents, routes, etc.
• Cleans inside and outside of trailer as needed. Removes manure and soiled straw from inside of trailer and replaces with clean straw. Sanitizes trailer as needed.
• Assists other drivers facilitating the loading/unloading of horses and equipment.
• Transports equine specimens for necropsy.
• Confirms a licensed attendant is accompanying each horse being transported.

Qualifications

• High school graduate or GED.
• 5‑7 years minimum working with horses in the racing industry; knowledge of setting up a horse van for equine transport.
• CDL, valid medical card, clean driving record.
• DOT training with continuing education classes as required.
• Current member or able to join the Teamsters Local 814 affiliated with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Chauffeurs, Warehousemen, and Helpers of America.
• Ability to work weekends and holidays.

Summary Of Physical Requirements And Work Environment

• Moderate to extreme danger working around racehorses due to the size, temperament, and unpredictability of horse behavior and movement.
• Ability to pull 150‑200 lbs.
• Ability to sit and stand for extended periods of time.
• Working outdoors much of the time.
• Working with different personalities and temperaments; motivating others to work within set schedule.

Pay Range / Salary

$33.49 hourly