Livestock Worker 1 - Penn National Racetrack

Do you have experience working around horses and want to put those skills to use in a unique and exciting environment? The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania's Department of Agriculture is seeking motivated candidates for Livestock Worker positions at Penn National Racetrack. In this role, you will work closely with veterinarians to safely handle horses and record sample data, playing an essential part in maintaining the integrity of horse racing in Pennsylvania. Livestock Workers help ensure that the rules, regulations, and policies of the Pennsylvania State Horse Racing Commission are upheld, making this a meaningful and impactful career path for anyone passionate about animal care and the racing industry. Apply today and take the next step in your career with the Commonwealth.

As a Livestock Worker 1, you will be responsible for the following duties, including but not limited to:

Horse Monitoring and Handling

• Monitors assigned horses to ensure proper identification, safe handling, and readiness for required testing procedures.
• Assists with restraining and managing horses in accordance with established safety and animal-handling protocols.
• Observes horse behavior and physical condition to maintain a safe environment for both animals and staff.

Sample Collection and Processing

• Collects urine samples from designated horses following established procedures and chain-of-custody requirements.
• Ensures all samples are properly labeled, packaged, and secured to maintain integrity for laboratory testing.
• Adheres to strict protocols to prevent contamination, mislabeling, or improper handling of biological samples.

Documentation and Recordkeeping

• Completes all required forms, logs, and documentation related to sample collection and horse assignments.
• Records data accurately and thoroughly to support regulatory compliance and testing verification.
• Maintains organized and accurate records in alignment with Pennsylvania State Horse Racing Commission standards.

General Farm and Operational Support

• Assists with additional farm, barn, or operational activities as needed to support daily workflows.
• Helps maintain clean, safe, and orderly work areas, equipment, and animal-handling spaces.
• Supports veterinarians and supervisory staff with tasks related to horse care, movement, and testing procedures.

Interested in learning more? Additional details regarding this position can be found in the position description.

Work Schedule and Additional Information:

• Temporary, part-time employment
• Typical work schedule is 5:45 PM to 10:45 PM, Wednesday - Friday.
• You will work closely with vendors and work hours may change based on vendor availability.
• Telework: You will not have the option to telework in this position.
• You will receive further communication regarding this position via email. Check your email, including spam/junk folders, for these notices.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Experience and Training Requirements:

• Experience in general farm work; and such training as may have been gained through completion of the eighth school grade; or
• An equivalent combination of experience and training.

Additional Requirements:

• You must be able to perform essential job functions.

Post Employment Requirement:

• This position will require possession of a Commission Employee License once hired.

• Experience working with horses

How to Apply:

• Resumes, cover letters, and similar documents will not be reviewed, and the information contained therein will not be considered for the purposes of determining your eligibility for the position. Information to support your eligibility for the position must be provided on the application (i.e., relevant, detailed experience/education).
• If you are claiming education in your answers to the supplemental application questions, you must attach a copy of your college transcripts for your claim to be accepted toward meeting the minimum requirements. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
• Your application must be submitted by the posting closing date. Late applications and other required materials will not be accepted.
• Failure to comply with the above application requirements may eliminate you from consideration for this position.
• All application materials and interview responses must reflect the applicant's own experience, qualifications, and work. Applicants may use generative AI tools for preparation purposes only. Use of AI to misrepresent or falsify information, or to assist during interviews, is not permitted. Review the Guidance for Generative AI Tools & Job Seekers for additional information.

Veterans:

• Pennsylvania law (51 Pa. C.S. *7103) provides employment preference for qualified veterans for appointment to many state and local government jobs. To learn more about employment preferences for veterans, go to www.pa.gov/agencies/employment/how-to-apply.html and click on Veterans.

Telecommunications Relay Service (TRS):

• 711 (hearing and speech disabilities or other individuals).

If you are contacted for an interview and need accommodations due to a disability, please discuss your request for accommodations with the interviewer in advance of your interview date.

The Commonwealth is an equal employment opportunity employer and is committed to a diverse workforce. The Commonwealth values inclusion as we seek to recruit, develop, and retain the most qualified people to serve the citizens of Pennsylvania. The Commonwealth does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religious creed, ancestry, union membership, age, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, AIDS or HIV status, disability, or any other categories protected by applicable federal or state law. All diverse candidates are encouraged to apply.