Groom/Work Rider at Hollywoodbets – Ashburton, KwaZulu-Natal
Hollywoodbets · KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Location: Ashburton, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Organisation: Hollywoodbets
Employment Type: Full-Time
Work Arrangement: Onsite
Positions Available: 2
Hollywoodbets is seeking two dedicated Groom/Work Riders to join its horse training operations in Ashburton, KwaZulu-Natal. This full-time, onsite opportunity is ideal for individuals with a passion for horse care, grooming, and riding who want to contribute to the daily welfare and training of horses in a professional environment. If you have a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to work safely and efficiently around horses, this role offers a rewarding opportunity to be part of a dynamic team.
About the Opportunity
The successful candidates will be responsible for the comprehensive daily care and maintenance of horses, ensuring they remain healthy, well-groomed, and ready for training or competitions. This role combines hands-on horse care with riding duties, supporting trainers and staff to ensure smooth operations and the welfare of the horses at all times.
As a Groom/Work Rider, you will perform essential tasks including feeding, grooming, stable management, tack maintenance, and riding horses during training sessions. You will also monitor the health and behavior of horses and report any concerns to the Head Trainer, contributing to the overall training strategy and operational efficiency of the center.
Key Responsibilities
Horse Care
- Feed, water, and ensure horses are well-groomed on a daily basis
- Clean and maintain stables, stalls, and paddocks
- Ensure bedding is clean and comfortable for all horses
- Monitor the health of horses and alert veterinarians to any signs of illness or injury
- Assist with the cooling-down process after training or exercise
Tack and Equipment Maintenance
- Clean and maintain tack, saddles, bridles, and other equipment
- Prepare horses with proper tack before training sessions
- Ensure all horse-related equipment is in good condition and properly stored
- Maintain the cleanliness and condition of all equipment
Training and Riding Duties
- Ride horses daily, providing exercise, training, and fitness sessions in line with training programs
- Work with horses of varying skill levels, including young horses and those in different stages of training
- Assist trainers during training sessions by bringing in or holding horses
- Provide feedback on horses' behavior, progress, and needs to trainers and managers
- Assist with ground work and handling of horses, including leading, lunging, and tacking up
- Ensure horses are calm and ready for work
- Help warm up or cool down horses when necessary
- Prepare horses for training sessions and cool them down afterward
Facility Maintenance
- Ensure the cleanliness and safety of barns, arenas, and other facilities
- Assist with general yard duties such as sweeping, mucking out, and organizing
Record Keeping
- Keep accurate records of horses' health, feeding schedules, and training progress
- Report any behavioral or physical changes in the horses
Safety and Welfare
- Follow all safety protocols and ensure the welfare of horses at all times
- Monitor the physical condition, behavior, and performance of horses
- Participate in and contribute to the overall training strategy of the center
Requirements
Essential Skills and Attributes
- Knowledge of horse care, grooming, and handling
- Ability to work efficiently and safely around horses
- Strong work ethic and attention to detail
- Good physical fitness as this role involves manual labor
- Ability to work as part of a team and take direction from trainers
Advantageous
- Previous experience working with horses is preferred, but not essential
Working Conditions
This role requires working outdoors in all weather conditions. Flexible hours, including early mornings, weekends, and holidays, may be required to meet the needs of the training schedule and ensure the continuous care and welfare of the horses.
About Hollywoodbets
Hollywoodbets is one of South Africa's leading sports betting and gaming companies, having grown from humble beginnings in Durban into a powerhouse brand operating across Africa and the United Kingdom. The company is committed to innovation, growth, and creating opportunities for its team members to develop their careers. Hollywoodbets is known for its vibrant company culture, focus on excellence, and ambition to expand its global footprint while maintaining a strong connection to its South African roots.
How to Apply
Interested candidates who meet the minimum requirements should submit their applications online. Please note that only applicants who meet the stipulated requirements will be considered, and if you are not contacted within 30 days of applying, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.