General Statement of Duties: As a Backcountry Equine Program Instructor, your primary responsibility is to plan and conduct engaging horseback riding lessons. This role involves ensuring the safety of guest riders, as well as overseeing the daily care and maintenance of trail horses and other equine programs.

Supervision: Work under the guidance of the Backcountry Programs Supervisor and Backcountry Equine Coordinator.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: The following examples of duties are intended to be illustrative only and are not intended to be all inclusive.

• Instruct riding lessons and equine programs for kids (3-17) and adults.
• Oversee horse well-being, including feeding, watering, basic care, and routine maintenance.
• Maintain and organize tack and horse equipment.
• Keep staging and corral areas organized and clean.
• Safely move horses to designated pastures, checking and maintaining fencing.
• Provide excellent customer service to riders, educating them on rules and regulations.
• Maintain client records and schedule lessons.
• Coordinate equine programming with other instructors.
• Secure signed liability waivers from participants.
• Implement, organize, market, and advertise programs.
• Ensure participant discipline and safety.
• Work collaboratively with Backcountry Wilderness Area staff.
• Respond to emergencies and maintain a positive attitude in all situations.
• Perform related duties as assigned.
• EOE

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Minimum age of 18.
• Thorough knowledge of horsemanship.
• Preferred experience in teaching horseback riding.
• Interest in working with children.
• Adaptability in lesson planning for diverse learners.
• Excellent customer service and conflict resolution skills.
• Strong work ethic and motivation.
• Current First Aid/CPR certifications required.
• Pass a Drug and Background check.

Physical and Environmental Standards:

Work performed both indoors and outdoors. Must be comfortable in an office environment with potential noise and interruptions. Outdoor work in all weather conditions, including adverse weather. Ability to traverse uneven terrain, stand for extended periods, walk, sit, crouch, bend, kneel, stoop, reach, lift, push, pull, and carry objects up to 60 pounds unassisted. Vision requirements include near and far acuity. Manual dexterity for typing, writing, calculator use, and phone operation. Effective communication through talking and hearing via phone and face-to-face.

Education/Experience: Minimum of 3 years of horse care and riding experience, with a preference for prior teaching experience in horseback riding.

Salary: Commensurate with experience, $15-28/hour

• $15-18: Minimum related experience. Basic horse knowledge & skills preferred.
• $17-22: Previous relevant experience including horse knowledge and skills.
• $21-28: 3 yrs. experience in the equine industry.