City : Toronto

Category : See Posting

Industry : Government

Employer : Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is an agency where innovation thrives, ideas flourish, and passion drives us to new heights of excellence. Reporting to the Ministry of the Attorney General, the AGCO is responsible for regulating Ontario’s vibrant alcohol, gaming, horse racing, and private retail cannabis sectors in accordance with the principles of honesty and integrity, and in the public interest. Come join our growing team!

The Regulatory Compliance Branch is seeking a Racetrack Safety Official to help ensure the safety and integrity of horse racing. This role carries out compliance activities at racetracks, including inspecting racing surfaces and delivering the human alcohol and drug testing program, to ensure operations meet safety standards and regulatory requirements.

In this role, the successful candidate will:

• Conduct inspections related to the racing surface to ensure compliance with Standardbred (SB) Directive 02-2010 and the Thoroughbred (TB) Rules of Racing.
• Conduct measurements of the racing surface to ensure sufficient cushion and accurate reporting.
• Participate in track opening inspections, identifying deficiencies and recommending corrective actions.
• Perform audits of racetrack operators to ensure compliance with approved procedures
• Ensure safety of participants through the alcohol and drug testing program.
• Test for alcohol levels of racing participants at racetracks, as designated by the Rules of Racing.
• Conduct inspections for the purpose of racetrack safety maintain a high level of visibility at racetracks to act as a deterrent for illicit activity.
• Obtain samples from participants selected for testing at racetracks and other locations as directed.
• Ensure samples are collected in accordance with accepted procedures.

The ideal candidate will have: 

• Strong understanding of racetrack surface management, including the preparation of synthetic, dirt, turf, and stone chip tracks, supported by a few years of hands-on experience working within these roles in the horse racing industry.
• Solid knowledge of Standardbred, Thoroughbred, and Quarter Horse racing, as well as general racetrack operations and security practices.
• Awareness of safe practices when working around horses and familiarity with appropriate handling techniques.
• Working knowledge of the Horse Racing License Act, 2015 and the Rules of Racing.
• Understanding of biosecurity practices to support a safe and healthy racing environment.
• Experience conducting investigative and compliance activities, using sound judgement and political acuity throughout.
• Demonstrated history of good compliance within the racing industry.
• A willingness to travel and work during racing’s core hours (including nights, weekends, and statutory holidays).
• A valid driver’s licence with an acceptable driving record.
• The successful candidate must be eligible to work in Canada and will be subject to a criminal background check.

About the AGCO

The Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) is an Ontario provincial regulatory agency that reports to the Ministry of the Attorney General. We are responsible for regulating the alcohol, gaming, horse racing and cannabis retail sectors in accordance with the principles of honesty and integrity, and in the public interest.

The AGCO is proud to be recognized as one of Greater Toronto’s Top Employers for the second year in a row. This annual distinction reflects our commitment to cultivating a workplace environment that prioritizes employee well-being, emphasizing work-life balance, mental health resources, and opportunities for professional growth. We remain committed to fostering a supportive and rewarding work environment for our employees.

What we offer

The AGCO provides a comprehensive range of benefits and programs (subject to eligibility), including:

• Generous time-off policy, including 2 volunteer days to contribute to causes that matter to you.
• Defined benefit pension plans to secure your financial future.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision plans, with 100% employer-paid premiums.
• Well-being credits to support gym memberships, therapy, financial planning, and more.
• Employer-paid parental leave top-up.
• Professional development opportunities with access to training programs, leadership resources, and reimbursement for professional memberships.
• 24/7 confidential support through our Employee Assistance Program.
• Convenient, central location near the subway line for easy access when working in the office. Paid onsite parking is also available.
  

   

• The AGCO is transitioning to four days per week in-office effective October 20, 2025, and 5 days per week in-office effective January 5, 2026.

The AGCO is an inclusive and equal opportunity employer.

The AGCO has the responsibility to lead by example in advancing racial equity and to build a diverse, inclusive, accessible and respectful workplace where every employee has a voice and the opportunity to fully contribute. To this effect, you are encouraged to reflect upon the diversity you would bring to the role within your application including, but not limited to, individuals identifying with one or more of the under-represented groups identified within Ontario’s Human Rights Code. 

Disability related accommodation during the recruitment process is available upon request.