Equine Instructor

Equine Instructor

SCHEDULE: Thursday 12pm - 6:30pm, Saturday 9am-3pm, alternating Saturday evening, Sunday morning and evening feeds.There will be opportunities to fill in and the schedule may change depending on department needs.

Purpose

The Equine Instructor provides therapeutic riding instruction and horsemanship education for youth in a residential treatment setting. This role combines equestrian instruction, horse care, and student mentorship to create safe, engaging, and therapeutic experiences. Working alongside therapists and the Equestrian Manager, the instructor helps students build confidence, responsibility, and emotional growth through meaningful interactions with horses.

Core Responsibilities

• Teach therapeutic riding lessons and horsemanship to students of varying experience levels.


• Partner with therapists to support individual and group equine therapy sessions.


• Ensure the health, safety, and daily care of horses, including feeding, grooming, stall cleaning, and basic health monitoring.


• Prepare horses, tack, and equipment for lessons while maintaining a safe riding environment.


• Supervise students in the barn and model safe horse-handling practices.


• Build positive, professional relationships that encourage student growth and support treatment goals.


• Report facility or horse health concerns promptly.


• Support the overall operation of the equestrian program and assist with additional duties as needed.

Qualifications

• Experience with horse care, riding instruction, and horsemanship.


• Previous teaching or therapeutic riding experience preferred.


• PATH Intl., CHA, Parelli, or similar certification preferred.


• Ability to perform physically demanding work, including lifting hay, cleaning stalls, and assisting riders.


• Strong communication, patience, and relationship-building skills.


• Ability to maintain professional boundaries while mentoring youth.


• Valid driver's license with an acceptable driving record.


• CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).


• Must be at least 21 years old.


• Ability to work outside year round.


• Experience driving a truck and trailer.

What We're Looking For

• Passion for horses and helping youth succeed.


• Strong horsemanship and safety awareness.


• Calm, dependable, and patient under pressure.


• Team player who collaborates well with therapists and fellow staff.


• Organized, proactive, and committed to creating a positive learning environment.

If you're passionate about horses and believe in the healing power of equine-assisted experiences, we'd love to have you join our team. This is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of youth while working alongside a dedicated team in a mission-driven environment.