Carriage Driver - Full Time

The Biltmore Carriage Driver is responsible for providing carriage rides for guests of the Estate.  The primary responsibilities of this position include providing general horse care, carriage and harness maintenance, care and cleaning for all related equipment, ensuring compliance with all the rules and regulations that govern carriage driving activities, and leading safe and enjoyable carriage rides for guests of the estate.

Schedule can vary, but is generally 7:45am-6:15pm Thursday - Sunday.

Essential Job Duties

1. Provide the daily care of all carriage driving horses.  Ensure that each horse is
receiving adequate water, hay and grain to keep them in top condition, daily grooming and hoof cleaning, and monitor the horses’ feeding patterns, behavior and gait for any problems.
2. Follow the schedule of horses and teams to be used for each day/ride established by the Program Supervisor.
3. Adhere to all operating procedures and safety guidelines. Use the daily checklist to ensure that the carriage, wheels and harness all are safe to use. Be sure that your carriage is equipped with a halter and lead rope, umbrellas, lap blankets, etc.
4. Ensure that all harnessing and hitching is done properly and that the lines run
correctly. Test drive prior to allowing any guests to board the carriage at start of day.
5. Welcome guests and offer any instruction or guidance to assist them in safely boarding.

Qualifications

1. High School Diploma (or GED), additional education desirable.
2. Knowledgeable about Biltmore Estate and its various programs and outdoor related activities.
3. 40 hours of documented, supervised driving experience with both single horse and teams.
4. Prior experience working for a commercial carriage operation desirable.
5. Current CPR and First Aid certification or willing to obtain ASAP.
6. Must be at least 19 years of age and have a valid North Carolina drivers license.

Physical Requirements

1. Must be able to lift 50 pounds, feed, harness and hold driving lines for large draft horses and willing to work outdoors in all weather conditions, pass a drug screen and physical prior to employment.