Thursday, October 1, 2026
Dozens of job seekers filled the Elmont Memorial Library on Aug. 19, hoping to land a position at the newly redeveloped Belmont Park before its Sept. 18 opening.
The New York Racing Association held the job fair from 2 to 7 p.m. in the library’s theater room, where prospective employees met with NYRA representatives and learned more about the jobs available at the new facility.
NYRA is looking to fill positions in box office operations, admissions, guest services, hospitality, sales and promotional services. Applicants had to be at least 18 years old and bring a valid photo ID and Social Security card or other acceptable I-9 documentation. Those hired must be available to work during the Sept. 18-20 opening weekend, as well as additional weekends and event days throughout the year.
Joseph Weber, senior associate of communications for NYRA, said the organization expected about 300 people to attend.
“This is our second one for Belmont,” Weber said. NYRA also regularly holds job fairs near its other tracks, including in Saratoga Springs.
For Weber, holding the job fair in Elmont was a natural choice because of the library’s proximity to Belmont Park. He said NYRA wanted to give people who live nearby an early opportunity to apply.
Among those waiting to interview was Keneisha Hylton, who was hoping to work in the box office.
“I saw the listing on Facebook,” Hylton said.
Thalia Chery, who attended the job fair with Hylton, was interviewing for a guest services position.
For NYRA, the hiring push is about more than filling positions for opening weekend. Weber said the organization is also looking for employees who can work at Belmont Park as its schedule grows.
“We’re not only hiring for the present September 18th opening, but also for the coming year,” Weber said.
The new Belmont Park is the result of a three-year redevelopment project that is turning the longtime racetrack into a larger sports and entertainment destination. Live racing will return Sept. 18, with the Opening Day card headlined by the Grade 1, $1 million Jockey Club Gold Cup.
But racing will not be the only attraction. Belmont Park is expeceted to host entertainment events. Right now, they are expected to host country music artist Dierks Bentley during their openig on September 18.
The NYRA plans to make Belmont Park more than just a racetrack by bringing concerts and other entertainment events to the venue.
The redevelopment is also creating jobs during the construction process. Weber said more than 400 construction workers were on site as crews worked to finish the new facility ahead of opening day.
“I mean, it’s right here at home,” Weber said of the project’s local impact.
With Belmont Park’s opening just weeks away, the job fair gave local residents a chance to get involved in the next chapter of a destination that has been part of the Elmont community for generations. For those waiting in line at the library, it was also a chance to take a first step toward becoming part of the workforce at the new Belmont Park.
