I think race and age matter everytime anywhere. I agree this is a pessimistic view, but I've found it to be true in my experience and my husband's as well. He works in a completely different field.

That said, there are exceptions to the rule such as good chemistry, laziness (that was how I got hired), charisma, and being at the right place at the right time.

When I refer to race, it could be caucasian or any minority, depending on the community you're applying at. As far as age, employers, in general, don't like to hire past 50, but some firms like to hire experienced staff.