Professional Jockey Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the fast-paced world of horse racing, the role of a professional jockey has never been more crucial.

As the sport evolves, the demand for skilled and dedicated individuals who can ride, strategize, and maintain their equine athletes intensifies.

But let’s dig deeper: What’s truly expected from a professional jockey?

Whether you are:

• An aspiring jockey trying to understand the core of this role,
• A racing manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the dynamics of professional horse racing,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a comprehensive professional jockey job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Professional Jockey Duties and Responsibilities

Professional Jockeys are athletes who ride horses in horse racing or steeplechase racing.

They require a unique blend of skill, strength, and coordination, as well as a deep understanding of the horses they ride.

Professional Jockeys are primarily responsible for guiding and controlling the horse during the race, with daily duties and responsibilities including:

• Riding horses in races according to race rules and regulations
• Observing horses’ behavior and responses during races and training
• Attending and participating in pre-race jockey meetings
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and weight to meet racing standards
• Communicating and collaborating with trainers and owners about horse’s abilities and race strategies
• Exercising horses in the mornings to keep them in race-ready condition
• Taking care of the horse after the race, including cooling down and checking for injuries
• Studying race tracks and understanding the impact of track conditions on horse performance
• Monitoring and managing horse behavior before and during the race

 

Professional Jockey Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a dedicated professional jockey to join our racing team.

The responsibilities of a professional jockey include training and riding racehorses in competitions, maintaining their health and fitness, and working closely with trainers to prepare for races.

Our ideal candidate has a strong background in horsemanship, is physically fit, and possesses a deep understanding of horse racing dynamics.

Ultimately, the role of a professional jockey is to ride horses in races to the best of their ability, following the trainer’s instructions and applying their knowledge to achieve the best possible results.

 

Responsibilities

• Ride horses in races and training sessions
• Work closely with trainers to prepare for races
• Maintain peak physical fitness and weight standards
• Ensure the welfare and health of the horse
• Communicate effectively with trainers, owners, and other team members
• Comply with racing rules and guidelines
• Represent team and owners professionally in public and media

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a jockey or in a related field
• Excellent horse riding skills
• Good knowledge of horse training and care
• Ability to make quick decisions under pressure
• Physical stamina and the ability to maintain a certain weight
• Awareness of safety procedures and guidelines
• High school diploma; certification from a racing school is a plus

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Travel opportunities
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Professional Jockey
• Work Environment: This job involves extensive travel and outdoor work, often in challenging weather conditions. The job demands high physical fitness and carries a risk of injury.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Trainer or Team Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: Varies greatly based on experience, skill, and success. Many professional jockeys earn a percentage of their race winnings.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if travel is required)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our team. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Professional Jockey Do?

Professional Jockeys are skilled equestrian professionals who compete in horse racing events.

They work for horse trainers and owners, racing horses in competitions at racecourses around the world.

Their main responsibility is to guide the horse around the track during a race in the fastest possible time.

This involves strategic decision-making, deciding when to hold back or push the horse to ensure optimum performance.

Professional Jockeys maintain a strong relationship with the horse, understanding the horse’s temperament and capabilities.

They also have to be able to calm and control the horse, especially in high-stress situations such as during a race or in the paddock beforehand.

They are required to maintain peak physical fitness, as horse racing is a physically demanding sport.

Jockeys must also adhere to strict weight requirements, as carrying excess weight can affect the horse’s performance.

They often work closely with trainers to prepare for races, which includes practice rides and understanding the horse’s training program.

They also study race conditions and competitors to develop race strategies.

Jockeys are responsible for wearing specific racing colors that represent the horse’s owner during a race.

They must also comply with strict racing rules and guidelines to ensure fair competition.

Post-race, they provide feedback to trainers and owners about the horse’s performance and potential improvements.

They may also be required to attend promotional events and engage with fans and media.

 

Professional Jockey Qualifications and Skills

A professional jockey should have skills and qualifications that adhere to the following:

• Exceptional horsemanship skills including a profound understanding of horse behavior and needs.
• Physical fitness and agility to cope with the demands of the job, which includes maintaining a low weight, as well as the ability to control and guide a horse during a race.
• Ability to make quick decisions and react promptly in high-pressure situations during a race.
• Resilience and mental toughness to cope with the physical demands and potential disappointments within the sport.
• Good communication skills to interact with trainers, owners, and other racing professionals.
• An understanding of racing rules and regulations, and the ability to adhere to them during races.
• Experience in competitive horse riding, preferably in a racing environment.
• Ability to travel extensively as race meetings can be held in different locations.

 

Professional Jockey Experience Requirements

Professional Jockey experience often starts at a young age, with many riders gaining equestrian experience during their childhood and teenage years.

They typically begin their career in horse racing as an apprentice jockey, gaining practical experience in the field.

Apprenticeships, which can last several years, provide hands-on training and mentorship under a licensed professional jockey or trainer.

This apprenticeship period allows jockeys to learn race-riding strategies, develop their horsemanship skills, and understand the intricacies of the racing industry.

To transition from an apprentice to a professional jockey, significant riding experience is required.

This usually equates to a certain number of race wins, although the specific number can vary by racing jurisdiction.

Many professional jockeys also have experience working as exercise riders, which involves training and conditioning horses for races.

This additional experience helps to further develop their understanding of horse behaviour, racing dynamics, and enhances their riding skills.

In addition to riding experience, professional jockeys should also have a solid understanding of race rules and regulations, which they often gain through formal education programs or training courses.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have additional skills such as the ability to mentor younger jockeys, a deep understanding of race strategies, and experience handling high pressure racing events.

 

Professional Jockey Education and Training Requirements

Becoming a Professional Jockey typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, but no formal education beyond that is necessary.

The most important training for a jockey comes in the form of hands-on experience with horses.

Often, prospective jockeys begin their training at a young age, learning to ride and care for horses.

Many professional jockeys begin their career as stable hands, horse trainers, or apprentice jockeys where they gain valuable experience in horse handling and riding.

Several racing schools around the world offer programs designed to train prospective jockeys.

These programs teach them the necessary skills for racing, such as maintaining balance, control, and pace during a race, as well as understanding race strategy.

Additionally, jockeys need a thorough understanding of equine health and fitness in order to identify and address any potential issues with their horses.

In most jurisdictions, jockeys need to obtain a license from the local racing authority or commission.

Licensing requirements vary, but generally involve passing a riding skills test and meeting certain physical fitness criteria.

To maintain their competitive edge, professional jockeys often pursue advanced riding courses and attend workshops to keep up-to-date with the latest techniques and strategies in horse racing.

Furthermore, a commitment to continuous learning about horse behavior, physiology, and training techniques is essential in this career.

 

Professional Jockey Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Professional Jockey is approximately $50,000 (USD) per year.

However, a jockey’s income largely depends on their performance, as they often earn a percentage of their horses’ winnings, which can significantly increase their earnings.

Factors such as the jockey’s experience, the races they participate in, and their location can also affect their salary.

 

Professional Jockey Job Description FAQs

What skills does a professional jockey need?

Professional jockeys need to have excellent riding skills and be able to handle high-speed races.

They should also have a deep understanding of horse behavior and riding techniques.

Physical fitness, resilience, and quick decision-making skills are also critical.

Jockeys must also have good communication skills to understand instructions from trainers and owners.

 

Do professional jockeys need a degree?

Professional jockeys do not necessarily need a degree, but they must have sufficient training and experience in horse riding.

Many start their training at a young age.

However, some jockey training schools offer programs that can provide the necessary skills and knowledge to become a professional jockey.

 

What should you look for in a professional jockey’s resume?

A professional jockey’s resume should showcase their riding experience, wins, and specific skills such as ability to handle different horse breeds or temperaments.

They should also have certifications from recognized jockey schools or programs.

Physical fitness and endurance can also be important factors.

 

What qualities make a good professional jockey?

A good professional jockey should possess a strong passion for the sport and a deep understanding of horse racing strategies.

They must be physically fit, have excellent riding skills, and the ability to make quick decisions during a race.

They should also have a strong work ethic and be dedicated to continuous learning and improvement.

 

Is it difficult to hire professional jockeys?

Hiring professional jockeys can be challenging due to the specific skills and experience required.

They must have a proven track record in horse racing and the ability to perform under pressure.

Furthermore, they need to be capable of building a good rapport with the horses they ride, making this a unique profession that requires a special kind of talent and dedication.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve taken you behind the scenes of the thrilling world of a professional jockey.

Surprised?

It’s not just about riding horses.

It’s about skillfully guiding these magnificent creatures, one race at a time.

Armed with our expertly curated professional jockey job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But don’t stop there.

Take the reins and plunge deeper with our job description generator. It’s your secret weapon to crafting precise job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every race is a part of a bigger journey.

Let’s conquer the track. Together.