What are the responsibilities and job description for the Starting Gate Driver position at Tioga Downs?
This is a Seasonal Position for our 2025 Race Season May through September
Are you ready to take the reins and drive the action at the starting line? We’re seeking a skilled and focused Starting Gate Driver to lead the charge during races and qualifiers. As the key player responsible for driving the starting gate, you’ll ensure the smooth and precise launch of each race, setting the pace for an exciting competition.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include the following:
- Responsible for driving the NYSRWB starter around the track to begin a race during qualifiers or live racing.
- Responsible for maintaining safe driving distance on each side of the vehicle and positioning the starting gate in the center of the track.
- All other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required, including driving and harness racing. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE:
High School diploma or GED required. Knowledge of harness racing.
SPECIAL QUALIFICATIONS:
Must have a valid driver’s license and be able to drive a starting gate.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an Associate to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
While performing the duties of this job, the Associate is regularly required to talk or hear. The Associate is also regularly required to stand, walk, sit, and use hands to finger, handle, or feel objects, tools or controls. The Associate is occasionally required to reach with hands and arms, and to sit, climb or balance, and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.
Must be able to work with the starter, around horses, and be able to drive and steer a starting gate.
WORK ENVIRONMENT:
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an Associate encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Benefits Include:
- Daycare services for employees only - open 7 Days a Week 7 am until 11 pm at Great Rates (Subsidy may also be available)
- Generous 401K plan - 100% Vested from the beginning!
- Medical, Dental, Vision and Life Insurance available for Full-Time Employees
- Paid Time Off, Sick Time and Holiday Pay
- Tuition Reimbursement *for eligible employees*
- Discounts available for Hotel, Restaurants, Spa Services, and more
