Position Title: Horsemanship Director
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 located in the scenic Pocono Mountains, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Horsemanship Director to lead our equestrian program. This role oversees all aspects of horseback riding operations, ensuring a safe, educational, and enjoyable experience for campers aged 7-17. The Horsemanship Director will manage staff, develop curriculum, and maintain high standards of horse care and facility operations, playing a key role in delivering a memorable summer program that fosters skill development and personal growth.
Key Responsibilities:
- Design, implement, and oversee a comprehensive English-style riding program for beginner to intermediate riders (walk, trot, canter, and introductory jumping), tailored to campers’ ages and abilities.
- Supervise and mentor a team of riding instructors and barn staff, providing training, scheduling, and performance feedback to ensure program excellence.
- Conduct pre-season rider assessments to assign campers to appropriate skill groups and oversee Equitation Week, including intermediate lessons and a culminating showcase event.
- Ensure the highest standards of safety by establishing and enforcing riding protocols, supervising all equestrian activities, and maintaining proper use of safety equipment (e.g., helmets).
- Oversee the care, health, and well-being of the camp’s horses, including feeding, grooming, and coordinating veterinary or farrier services as needed.
- Manage the maintenance of tack, stalls, arenas, trails, and related equipment, conducting regular inspections to ensure safety, cleanliness, and functionality.
- Develop and manage the equestrian program budget, including procurement of supplies and equipment, while optimizing resources for efficiency.
- Collaborate with the Summer Camp Director(s) to integrate the riding program into the broader camp schedule, ensuring seamless participation in meals and camp-wide activities.
- Inspire campers and staff with a positive, leadership-driven approach, promoting a love for horses and riding while enhancing camper confidence and teamwork.
- Lead the seasonal setup and breakdown of the equestrian program, including horse conditioning, staff training, and equipment storage.
Qualifications:
- Minimum age of 23 years.
- Extensive experience in English-style horseback riding, with a proven track record of teaching and managing equestrian programs (beginner to intermediate levels).
- Strong knowledge of horse care, barn management, and equine health, with prior experience overseeing a herd and facilities.
- Demonstrated leadership and supervisory skills, with the ability to train, motivate, and manage a team of instructors and support staff.
- Ability to develop and execute a safe, engaging, and progressive riding curriculum that meets the needs of young riders.
- Keen awareness of safety risks in equestrian settings, with the ability to respond effectively to emergencies (First Aid/CPR certification required or willingness to obtain).
- Excellent organizational and communication skills, with a talent for coordinating staff, campers, and parents in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency in budget management and basic record-keeping related to program operations.
Personal and Professional Characteristics:
- A passionate and approachable leader with a deep commitment to horses, teaching, and creating positive experiences for youth.
- Strategic thinker with strong decision-making skills to address challenges, ensure safety, and maintain program quality.
- Collaborative team player, capable of working closely with camp leadership while independently managing the equestrian department.
- Patient and professional demeanor, adept at fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for staff and campers alike.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions and navigate uneven terrain in a rural camp setting.
- Physically capable of lifting up to 25 pounds, handling horses, and assisting with riding activities as needed.
Why Join Us?
As the Horsemanship Director at Mt. Gilead Camp, you’ll lead a talented team in sharing the joy of horseback riding with young girls in a stunning natural environment. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape an exceptional equestrian program, leaving a lasting impact on campers and staff during an unforgettable 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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