Quick Answer

Yes, Tampa Bay Downs hires individuals with conviction records, particularly for support roles and seasonal positions. However, employment is highly conditional and severely restricted for most core gaming positions because roles in The Silks Poker Room require a mandatory Cardroom Employee Occupational License from the Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC). The company states they take each individual "on a case by case basis" and that "having a prior arrest will not immediately disqualify you." This case-by-case approach suggests the company follows EEOC guidelines for individualized assessments.

The greatest barriers are created by any felony conviction involving forgery, larceny, extortion, fraud, or gambling-related offenses. For gaming positions, the law allows the Commission to deny licensing based on any conviction that demonstrates a lack of good moral character. However, the Commission may waive license restrictions if the applicant establishes they are of good moral character and have been rehabilitated through clear and convincing evidence.

Hourly pay ranges from $12-$20/hr for support roles (housekeeping, food service, security) to $10-$15/hr base plus tips for poker dealers (earning $40,000-$80,000+ annually with tips). The best entry points for applicants with records are Housekeeping, Food and Beverage (Back of House), Grounds/Maintenance, Event Crew, and Parking/Valet positions, which are less likely to require the strictest gaming commission licensing. Seasonal positions during the racing season (November through May) offer particularly good opportunities to demonstrate reliability and potentially transition to year-round employment.

Table of Content

1. Quick Answer

2. Felon-Friendly Scorecard

3. Eligibility Checklist

4. Critical Regulatory Information

5. Company Overview

6. Hiring Policy Analysis

7. Background Check Process

8. Application Strategy

9. Tips for Applicants with Records

10. Benefits Overview

11. Frequently Asked Questions

12. Alternative Second Chance Employers

13. Conclusion

14. Disclaimer

Felon-Friendly Scorecard

Eligibility Checklist

Before applying, honestly assess whether you meet these baseline requirements:

• No Permanent Gaming Bar: Must NOT have a conviction for a capital felony, a felony involving money laundering, or crimes directly related to gambling if seeking cardroom positions.

• Disqualifying Period Met: For gaming positions, must have completed the mandatory waiting period since final release from supervision, including payment of all fines, restitution, and court costs.

• Clean Record for Specific Offenses: Gaming roles require no felony or misdemeanor convictions involving forgery, larceny, extortion, conspiracy to defraud, or filing false reports to government agencies.

• Good Moral Character: Must be prepared to establish rehabilitation and good moral character by clear and convincing evidence if seeking an FGCC license waiver.

• Honesty is Paramount: Must disclose all prior convictions when asked on the application, as failure to disclose is an automatic integrity failure.

• Drug-Free: Must be able to pass drug screening if required for the position.

Critical Regulatory Information

Employment at Tampa Bay Downs involves a dual regulatory framework. General employment follows standard hiring practices with background checks. However, positions supporting The Silks Poker Room (cardroom) are legally controlled by Florida Statute § 849.086, which governs cardrooms at pari-mutuel facilities.

Cardroom Employee Occupational License Requirements

Under Florida law, a person employed or working in a cardroom in any of the following capacities must hold a valid Cardroom Employee Occupational License issued by the Florida Gaming Control Commission:

• Cardroom Manager

• Floor Supervisor

• Brush (person who seats players)

• Chip Counter or Sorter

• Poker Room Host/Hostess

• Surveillance Operator

• Cashier (Cage)

• Dealer

• Any other activity related to cardroom operations

FGCC License Disqualifying Offenses (§ 849.086)

Under Florida Statute § 849.086(g), the Commission may deny, declare ineligible, or revoke any cardroom occupational license if the applicant or holder has been found guilty (or had adjudication withheld) in any jurisdiction of:

• Felony or misdemeanor involving forgery

• Felony or misdemeanor involving larceny (theft)

• Felony or misdemeanor involving extortion

• Conspiracy to defraud

• Filing false reports to a government agency, racing or gaming commission or authority

Additionally, under § 551.107 for slot machine operations, convictions involving arson, drug trafficking, racketeering, or crimes involving lack of good moral character may result in license denial.

Waiver Process

If you have a disqualifying conviction, the Commission may waive the restriction only if you establish:

• You are of good moral character

• You have been rehabilitated

• The crime you were convicted of is not directly related to gaming and is not a capital offense

The burden of proof is on the applicant to demonstrate rehabilitation by clear and convincing evidence. This typically requires documentation such as employment history, character references, completion of rehabilitation programs, and community involvement.

Company Overview

Tampa Bay Downs is a historic thoroughbred horse racing facility located in Oldsmar, Florida, in Hillsborough County just outside Tampa. It is the only thoroughbred race track on Florida's west coast and one of America's oldest and most well-maintained racetracks. The facility has earned the nickname "the Oldsmar oval" and legendary sportswriters like Grantland Rice, Red Smith, Fred Russell, and Arthur Daley once called it the "Santa Anita of the South."

The facility opened in 1926 under the name Tampa Downs and has operated under several names including Sunshine Park (1946) and Florida Downs and Turf Club (1965) before becoming Tampa Bay Downs in 1980. During World War II in 1943, the United States Army took over the track for use as a training facility. The track returned to racing after the war and entered the modern era in 1946 with the installation of an electric starting gate, photo-finish camera, and electronic tote board.

The current owners, Stella F. Thayer and her brother Howell Ferguson, purchased the track at auction in 1986 and have overseen significant improvements including the addition of a seven-furlong turf course in 1998 that has become one of the most popular turf courses in North America. Other improvements include The Silks Poker Room, The Downs Golf Practice Facility with a 270-yard driving range, and various facility upgrades including new wagering terminals and a high-definition video board.

Tampa Bay Downs is a family-owned, seasonal operation that typically employs several hundred workers during the racing season. The company operates three main business lines: live thoroughbred horse racing (late November through early May), The Silks Poker Room (cardroom) located on the third floor of the grandstand, and The Downs Golf Practice Facility. The track features a one-mile dirt oval main track and a seven-furlong turf course with a quarter-mile inner chute. Major annual events include the Grade III Tampa Bay Derby ($400,000), the Grade II Hillsborough Stakes, the Grade III Florida Oaks, and Festival Day.

Fast Facts

Founded in 1926, Tampa Bay Downs is approaching its 100th season as Florida's premier west coast horse racing destination. The facility features a one-mile dirt track, a seven-furlong turf course, a 22-acre golf practice facility, and The Silks Poker Room. Racing typically runs from late November through early May on Wednesdays, Fridays, and weekends. Major events include the Grade III Tampa Bay Derby ($400,000), the Hillsborough Stakes, and Florida Oaks. The facility is located on Race Track Road in Oldsmar and offers free general admission (with $3 admission on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays). The company is known for its family-oriented atmosphere and has been praised by employees for its friendly work environment.

Hiring Policy Analysis

Tampa Bay Downs has a transparent background check policy that balances security concerns with fair consideration of applicants' circumstances. According to official job postings, the company is "committed to offering a safe and secure work environment" and states: "One of the steps that we take to help achieve this goal is running BACKGROUND CHECKS on all applicants that successfully navigate the interview process."

Crucially, the company emphasizes that "Failure to truthfully fill out the application will be grounds for immediate passing on a candidate" and that "We take each individual on a case by case basis. Having a prior arrest will not immediately disqualify you." This language indicates that the company distinguishes between arrests (which should not be used as automatic disqualifiers under EEOC guidance) and convictions, and that it evaluates each applicant's specific situation.

This case-by-case approach indicates the company follows EEOC individualized assessment guidelines, considering factors such as the nature and gravity of the offense, the time elapsed since the offense or completion of sentence, and the nature of the job sought. The Green Factors (named after the Green v. Missouri Pacific Railroad case) provide a framework for this evaluation that helps protect both the employer and applicants.

For non-gaming positions, Tampa Bay Downs appears to have standard employer discretion in hiring decisions. However, for cardroom positions, the FGCC licensing requirements create additional regulatory barriers that are largely outside the employer's discretion. Even if Tampa Bay Downs wanted to hire someone for a poker dealer position, that person must independently qualify for and obtain a Cardroom Employee Occupational License from the state.

Employee reviews consistently describe a friendly, welcoming workplace culture where management is helpful and coworkers are supportive. Multiple reviews mention that the atmosphere is "like family" and that people greet each other even if they don't know them. This positive culture may translate into more willingness to give applicants with records a fair chance, particularly in support roles where regulatory requirements are less restrictive.

Position-Specific Barriers

Available Positions and Pay

Career Path Examples

Seasonal Support → Year-Round Support → Supervisor: Start in seasonal Housekeeping or Event Crew during racing season, demonstrate reliability and work ethic, and transition to year-round Food & Beverage or Maintenance positions. With continued strong performance and growing familiarity with operations, advance to supervisory roles in facilities or food service departments.

Food Service → Bartender → Front of House Supervisor: Begin in back-of-house food service positions where background requirements are most flexible. After proving reliability and customer service skills, move to customer-facing bartender role with tip income. Eventually advance to supervisory positions overseeing food and beverage operations.

Event Crew → Facilities → Full-Time Operations: Start with the Event Operations Crew handling setup and breakdown for racing events and special functions. Learn facility operations, demonstrate physical capability and attention to detail, and transition to full-time grounds or maintenance positions with opportunities for advancement.

Entry-Level → Gaming (with clean record): For those with older, non-disqualifying records who can obtain FGCC licensing, start in poker room support roles like Chip Runner to learn the gaming environment. Complete dealer school to develop technical skills, then advance to Poker Dealer with significant tip income potential ($40,000-$80,000+ annually). Top performers can eventually move into Floor Supervisor and Cardroom Supervisor roles.

Golf Facility → Year-Round Employment: Begin at The Downs Golf Practice Facility in shop or range positions. These positions may have less regulatory oversight than gaming roles while still providing facility-based employment. Demonstrate customer service excellence and advance within the golf operations.

Background Check Process

1. Apply online through Tampa Bay Downs careers page or third-party job sites like Indeed
   

2. Complete initial interview if application is selected
   

3. Receive conditional job offer pending background check
   

4. Complete background check authorization and provide truthful criminal history disclosure
   

5. For gaming positions: Submit Cardroom Employee Occupational License application to FGCC with required fees
   

6. Provide fingerprints (submitted to FDLE and FBI for gaming positions)
   

7. FGCC reviews application and makes licensing determination (gaming positions)
   

8. If licensed/cleared, complete onboarding and begin employment

The standard interview-to-hire process takes approximately one week for non-gaming positions. Gaming positions requiring FGCC licensing may take several weeks longer due to regulatory processing.

Disqualifying Factors

Automatic Disqualifiers for Gaming Positions:

• Capital felonies

• Felonies or misdemeanors involving forgery

• Felonies or misdemeanors involving larceny (theft)

• Felonies or misdemeanors involving extortion

• Conspiracy to defraud

• Filing false reports to government agencies or gaming commissions

• Felonies related to gambling or bookmaking

• Failure to disclose criminal history on application

Significant Barriers (Case-by-Case Evaluation):

• Any felony conviction (for gaming positions, may require waiver)

• Drug trafficking convictions

• Violent offenses

• Crimes demonstrating lack of good moral character

• Recent convictions (less than 7 years from release)

Your Rights as an Applicant

Under federal and Florida law, you have important rights during the hiring process. Understanding these rights can help you navigate background checks and advocate for yourself if issues arise.

Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), you have the right to:

• Receive written notice that a background check will be conducted before it is run

• Provide written consent before the background check is performed

• Receive a copy of the background check report if any adverse action is taken based on the results

• Dispute inaccurate information in your background check with the reporting agency

• Receive pre-adverse action notice before a final decision is made, giving you opportunity to explain or dispute

• Receive post-adverse action notice explaining the decision and your rights

Under EEOC guidelines, employers must conduct individualized assessments considering the nature and gravity of the offense, the time elapsed since the offense or completion of sentence, and the nature of the job sought. Blanket policies that automatically exclude all applicants with criminal records may violate Title VII of the Civil Rights Act if they have a disparate impact on protected groups.

Florida does not have a statewide Ban the Box law for private employers, meaning companies may ask about criminal history on job applications. However, some Florida cities and counties have local Ban the Box ordinances. Tampa Bay Downs is located in unincorporated Hillsborough County, which does not have a private employer Ban the Box requirement.

For gaming positions requiring FGCC licensing, you have additional rights under Florida administrative law:

• The right to request a waiver from the Florida Gaming Control Commission if you have disqualifying convictions

• The right to submit evidence of rehabilitation to support a waiver request

• The right to contest adverse decisions through administrative hearing procedures under Chapter 120, Florida Statutes

• The right to appeal administrative law judge decisions through the court system

If you believe your rights have been violated during the hiring process, you may file a complaint with the EEOC (for discrimination issues) or the Federal Trade Commission (for FCRA violations).

Application Strategy

1. Target Ancillary Roles First: Focus your application on Housekeeping, Food and Beverage (Back of House), Grounds/Maintenance, or Event Crew positions, which face less regulatory scrutiny than gaming positions.
   

2. Review Your Record: Obtain your Florida criminal history from FDLE and check for any inaccuracies. If you have federal convictions, obtain your FBI record as well.
   

3. Know the Disqualifying Offenses: If you have convictions involving forgery, larceny, extortion, fraud, or gambling, understand that gaming positions will be extremely difficult to obtain.
   

4. Check Your Disqualification Period: For most felonies, ensure adequate time has elapsed since your final release. Having 7+ years clean significantly improves your chances.
   

5. Pay Off All Court Obligations: Ensure all fines, restitution, and court costs are paid in full before applying. Unpaid obligations can prevent licensing.
   

6. Be 100% Honest: Disclose your full criminal history on all applications. The fingerprint check will find everything, and dishonesty is an automatic disqualifier.
   

7. Document Your Rehabilitation: Gather evidence of rehabilitation including employment history, character references, education, community service, and completion of any treatment programs.
   

8. Apply During Hiring Surge: Tampa Bay Downs hires heavily before the racing season begins (October-November). Seasonal positions offer good entry opportunities.

Tips for Applicants with Records

1. Start with seasonal positions during the racing season (November-May) to get your foot in the door
   

2. The Test Barn and backstretch areas may have positions with less gaming regulatory oversight
   

3. Demonstrate reliability by showing up early and never missing shifts - employees note this is valued
   

4. Be prepared to explain your conviction honestly and emphasize what you've learned
   

5. Highlight any customer service, hospitality, or cash handling experience
   

6. If interested in dealing poker, complete dealer school first to show commitment
   

7. Network with current employees if possible - the workplace culture is described as friendly and tight-knit
   

8. Understand that gaming positions require separate regulatory approval beyond employer hiring decisions
   

9. Consider expungement or sealing of eligible records before applying
   

10. Keep copies of all rehabilitation documentation organized and ready to submit

Benefits Overview

Tampa Bay Downs offers a benefits package that varies by position type, employment status, and length of service. As a seasonal operation, many positions are tied to the racing season (November through May), though some employees transition to year-round status based on performance and operational needs.

• Seasonal Employment: Many positions run from late November through early May during the racing season, with potential for year-round employment in certain departments based on performance and availability

• Tip Income: Poker dealers and bartenders earn significant tip income that can substantially increase total compensation, with dealers potentially earning $40,000-$80,000+ annually when tips are included

• Flexible Scheduling: Employees report good work-life balance with accommodating schedules, particularly valuable for those managing personal obligations or multiple jobs

• Free Parking: Complimentary parking at the facility for all employees

• Friendly Work Environment: Multiple employee reviews describe a welcoming, family-like atmosphere with supportive coworkers and management

• Weekly Pay: Some positions offer weekly pay schedules, providing more frequent income access

• No Experience Required: Many entry-level positions, particularly in housekeeping and event operations, require no prior experience, making them accessible to those re-entering the workforce

• Opportunity for Advancement: Employees who demonstrate reliability can advance within the organization, with some moving from seasonal to year-round status

Note: Full-time benefits including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off should be confirmed during the interview process as offerings may vary by position and employment status. The company's family-owned nature may mean benefits differ from larger corporate employers.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Does Tampa Bay Downs hire people with felonies?

   Yes, for support and seasonal positions, Tampa Bay Downs takes applicants on a case-by-case basis and states that having a prior arrest will not immediately disqualify you. However, gaming positions in The Silks Poker Room require FGCC licensing, which has strict disqualifications for certain felony convictions.
   

2. What is the background check process at Tampa Bay Downs?

   All applicants who pass the interview undergo background checks. For non-gaming positions, this is a standard criminal history check. For cardroom positions, applicants must submit fingerprints to FDLE and FBI and obtain an FGCC Cardroom Employee Occupational License.
   

3. How far back does the background check go at Tampa Bay Downs—what is the lookback period?

   For support positions, a 7-year lookback is typical. For gaming positions, the FGCC may consider any felony or misdemeanor conviction involving forgery, larceny, extortion, fraud, or gambling-related offenses regardless of when they occurred.
   

4. What types of convictions make hiring more difficult at Tampa Bay Downs?

   For gaming positions: forgery, larceny (theft), extortion, conspiracy to defraud, filing false reports, gambling offenses, and drug trafficking are the most difficult to overcome. For all positions: recent convictions, violent offenses, and crimes involving dishonesty create the biggest barriers.
   

5. What are the best entry-level roles at Tampa Bay Downs for applicants with a record?

   Housekeeping, Food Service (Back of House), Grounds/Maintenance, Event Operations Crew, and Jockey Room Valet are the best entry points. These positions have standard background checks without gaming commission licensing requirements.
   

6. Does Tampa Bay Downs drug test, and what kind of test do they use?

   Drug testing policies vary by position. Gaming positions may require pre-employment drug screening. Specific testing methods should be confirmed during the interview process.
   

7. When during the hiring process will Tampa Bay Downs ask about criminal history?

   Criminal history is typically addressed after the initial interview, during the background check authorization phase. Florida does not require private employers to "ban the box," so criminal history questions may appear on applications.
   

8. Can someone advance to management at Tampa Bay Downs if they have a felony?

   Advancement to management in non-gaming areas is possible with demonstrated performance and rehabilitation. Management roles in gaming operations require FGCC licensing, which has strict requirements that may prevent advancement for those with certain felony convictions.
   

9. How long does the hiring and background check process take?

   For standard positions, the interview-to-hire process takes approximately one week according to employee reports. Gaming positions requiring FGCC licensing take longer, potentially several weeks, due to fingerprint processing and regulatory review.
   

10. What can applicants do to improve their chances of getting hired at Tampa Bay Downs?

    Be completely honest about your criminal history, target support positions first, apply during pre-season hiring (October-November), document your rehabilitation, ensure all court obligations are paid, and demonstrate reliability and customer service skills. If possible, pursue expungement of eligible records.

Alternative Second Chance Employers

Conclusion

Tampa Bay Downs offers limited but real opportunities for individuals with criminal records, particularly in support and seasonal roles. The company's stated policy of evaluating applicants on a case-by-case basis is encouraging, and employee reviews consistently describe a friendly, supportive workplace culture that may be more welcoming than larger corporate operations.

The key challenge for applicants with records is navigating the dual regulatory framework. While Tampa Bay Downs as an employer appears willing to give people second chances, the Florida Gaming Control Commission's licensing requirements for cardroom positions create substantial barriers that are beyond the employer's control. Understanding which positions require gaming licenses and which do not is essential for developing a realistic job search strategy.

Your best strategy is to target non-gaming support positions first, particularly seasonal roles during the November-May racing season when hiring is most active. Be completely transparent about your criminal history, as the company explicitly states that dishonesty will result in immediate disqualification. Prepare documentation of your rehabilitation and be ready to explain your conviction history in terms of what you've learned and how you've changed.

For those interested in gaming positions, carefully review the FGCC disqualifying offenses listed in Florida Statute § 849.086 and consider whether pursuing an exemption is realistic given your specific conviction history. The waiver process requires proving rehabilitation by clear and convincing evidence, which takes significant preparation and documentation. Consulting with an attorney experienced in gaming law may be worthwhile if you have a realistic path to licensure.

The family-owned nature of Tampa Bay Downs and its nearly 100-year history in the Tampa Bay community suggest an organization with roots and stability. The positive employee reviews describing a friendly atmosphere, supportive management, and family-like culture are encouraging signs for anyone seeking a second chance. By targeting appropriate positions, being honest and prepared, and demonstrating reliability, applicants with criminal records can find meaningful employment opportunities at this historic Florida institution.

Disclaimer

This guide is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Hiring policies, regulatory requirements, and company practices may change without notice. Information presented here is based on publicly available sources and may not reflect current policies. Always verify information directly with Tampa Bay Downs and the Florida Gaming Control Commission before making employment decisions. Individuals with criminal records should consult with a qualified attorney regarding their specific circumstances and eligibility for gaming licenses or record expungement.

Apply Now

Website: www.tampabaydowns.com/employment/

Online Applications: recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/All/Tampa-Bay-Downs-Inc

Location: 11225 Race Track Road, Tampa, FL 33626 (Oldsmar)

Racing Season: Late November through Early May

Gates Open: 11:00 AM on race days