Position Title: Horseback Riding Instructor
Classification: Full-Time Seasonal (June 22 – August 10)
Job Location: Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
Reports To: Summer Camp Director(s)
Position Summary:
Mt. Gilead Camp and Conference Center, a Christian summer camp for girls nestled in the Pocono Mountains, is seeking a skilled and enthusiastic Horseback Riding Instructor. This role is dedicated to delivering a safe, engaging, and educational equestrian program tailored to campers aged 7-17. The instructor will teach riding skills, ensure camper safety, and maintain the care of horses and equipment, contributing to an unforgettable summer experience rooted in fun and personal growth.
Key Responsibilities:
- Plan and teach English-style horseback riding lessons for beginner to intermediate riders (walk, trot, canter, and introductory jumping), adapting instruction to campers’ ages and skill levels.
- Conduct rider assessments at the start of the season to group campers appropriately for lessons and activities.
- Lead daily riding sessions, including trail rides, arena work, and a special Equitation Week featuring intermediate lessons and a showcase event.
- Ensure camper safety by enforcing riding rules, supervising all equestrian activities, and maintaining proper use of safety equipment (e.g., helmets).
- Care for horses, including feeding, grooming, and basic health checks, while overseeing the maintenance of tack, stalls, and riding areas.
- Perform daily inspections of equipment, arenas, and trails to ensure a safe and clean environment, addressing any issues promptly.
- Collaborate with camp staff to integrate riding into the broader camp schedule, ensuring timely transitions to meals and other activities.
- Inspire campers with a positive, encouraging attitude, fostering their confidence and love for horseback riding.
- Assist with seasonal setup and breakdown of the equestrian program, including conditioning horses and storing equipment.
Qualifications:
- Previous Teaching Experience
- Extensive experience in English-style horseback riding, with a strong background in teaching riders of varying skill levels (beginner to intermediate).
- Knowledge of horse care, barn management, and tack maintenance.
- Ability to create safe, fun, and engaging lessons that build riding skills and camper self-esteem.
- Awareness of safety hazards related to riding and the ability to respond effectively, including basic first aid knowledge (First Aid/CPR certification preferred or willingness to obtain).
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a passion for teaching children and fostering a positive learning environment.
- Reliable time management skills to balance lesson schedules with camp operations.
Personal and Professional Characteristics:
- Enthusiastic and patient demeanor, with a genuine love for horses and teaching young riders.
- Sound judgment to assess risks, maintain safety standards, and address challenges calmly and effectively.
- Self-motivated and capable of working independently or as part of a team in a dynamic outdoor setting.
- Comfortable interacting with campers, staff, and parents in a friendly and professional manner.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and navigate uneven terrain in a rural camp environment.
- Physically capable of lifting up to 25 pounds, mounting/dismounting horses, and assisting campers with riding tasks.
Why Join Us?
Join Mt. Gilead Camp to share your equestrian expertise with eager young riders in a breathtaking natural setting. This role offers the chance to make a meaningful impact, helping girls develop riding skills and lasting memories during an exciting summer season.
At Mt. Gilead, we believe that core values are crucial in guiding the growth and development of young women in this generation. The decisions they will make in school, at home, amongst friends and ultimately later in life are a reflection of their values and beliefs. Christ-Centered values like love, patience, and encouragement are lived out daily by our staff, setting the atmosphere for acceptance, trust and ultimately growth.
It is within the one-on-one friendships and interactions with their counselors that campers are able to see and witness the tangible love of Jesus. Our counselors come alongside campers to listen, mentor and model what it looks like to passionately follow Jesus Christ. These authentic relationships, set in the unique and fun context of camp, creates an environment ripe for life-changing experiences.
Salary :
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