Equine Assistant

Equine Assistant

Position Description

ORGANIZATIONAL MISSION: Our mission is to bring out the limitless potential in young leaders through extraordinary experiences and nurturing relationships. 

PEAK VALUES & BELIEFS: At PEAK, we know that with the right support and access to quality programs and experiences, all young people are able to achieve at the highest level imaginable. Below are the core values that we operate under at PEAK. Staff are expected to embrace and exhibit these values toward each other, participants, caregivers, and all stakeholders. 

• Every living being has inherent value.

We honor the unique identities of every person and uphold their right to a safe and fun environment where everyone belongs. We also treat our natural environment with care and respect.

• The community is better when everyone contributes.

We unite in sharing responsibilities, creating a strong community. We inspire one another to embrace our authentic selves, celebrating the diversity of perspectives and experiences we each bring forth.

• We can only grow when we are honest about our mistakes.

We accept accountability for our actions, look for ways to improve, and have opportunities to grow.

• Everyone has the power to change their world.

We all have the ability to influence and make a difference in our own lives and our communities around us.

POSITION SUMMARY: The Equestrian Assistant supports the Equestrian Program by providing daily care for horses. The main objective of the horse program is to teach campers to ride and to understand basic horse care. 

POSITION AVAILABILITY:

This role begins with a required training from June 8 - June  11. End date: August 10

• Typically work an average of 15-25 hours per week, with additional hours required during training. The schedule may include weekends and evenings. Hours may be flexible due to weather conditions and other unforeseen circumstances.

BASIC FUNCTION AND RESPONSIBILITY 

• Communicate and enforce all equestrian policies and procedures with staff and campers at the horse barn. 


• With the Consultant and other Equestrian staff, maintain a herd of 4-6 horses, including maintaining feed, water, grain, supplements, wound care, and knowledge of turnout etc.


• Assist with care of a small flock of chickens, as needed.


• Recognize, and report to the Assistant Director of Camp Programs and Facility Manager, any program hazards, and ensure those hazards are addressed before the program continues.

COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS

• This position is compensated at a rate of $16.25 per hour, pre-tax.


• Summer seasonal staff are paid on a bi-weekly basis and are classified as exempt, seasonal employees.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

• Ability to receive constructive feedback and coaching from supervisor and make necessary adjustments


• Ability to work collaboratively with co-workers to achieve program objectives. 


• Commitment to being punctual and adhering to a schedule provided by camp leadership.

• Possess strong communications skills and apply them with coworkers and supervisors, maintaining confidentiality of sensitive staff and camper information when necessary.

• Ability to perform job duties in a fast-paced environment and able to embrace change and be flexible. 

• Hands-on experience handling horses with a good understanding of their nature and the ability to foresee dangerous situations.

REQUIREMENTS & CERTIFICATIONS

• Must be at least 18 and/or have a high school diploma or GED to apply


• Must have reliable transportation to and from Lake Valley Camp in Boscobel, WI

REPORTING AND RELATIONSHIPS

• The Equine Assistant reports to the Assistant Director of Camp Programs and receives support and feedback from the Equestrian Consultant and Equestrian Instructors.

PHYSICAL & MENTAL DEMANDS & WORKING CONDITIONS 

The mental and physical requirements and work environment conditions described here are representative of those that must be met by an individual to successfully perform the essential functions of this position.

• Staff must be ready for new experiences and maintain a consistent level of energy all summer long.


• Position requires standing, stooping, sitting, walking long distances on uneven terrain (5+ miles a day), and occasionally lifting up to 40 pounds with or without assistance.

• All PEAK Initiative properties, including Lake Valley Camp and the Milwaukee Program Center, are substance-free environments. Smoking, vaping, alcohol consumption, and the use of illicit drugs are strictly prohibited on all property regardless of whether or not staff are on break. 

• Camp activities are often loud, involving many people talking, yelling, cheering, etc., in indoor and outdoor settings.


• The camp environment is often hot, rainy, with bugs or other wildlife. Staff must be able to work outside in a nature setting for sustained periods of time without air conditioning. 


• Staff must be able to walk and perform activities in the dark in an outdoor, nature setting.


• This position requires working weekends and nights. 

ADDITIONAL COMMENTS: 

The above job description is not intended as, nor should it be construed as, exhaustive of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this job.

PEAK Initiative is proud to be an equal opportunity workplace employer. We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status.