Summer Horse Camp Counselor

Catskill Equestrian Center – Catskill, NY
Seasonal | Monday–Friday | 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM

Catskill Equestrian Center is seeking an experienced and responsible Summer Camp Counselor to lead our beginner-focused horse camp program.

This position is ideal for someone 18 with strong horsemanship skills, teaching ability, and leadership confidence. The selected candidate will run daily camp operations with the support of three certified instructors, but must be capable of independently managing a group of children in a structured equestrian environment.

We are hiring for:

• 10 weeks of Summer Camp (June–August)
• 2 weeks of Spring Break Camp (April)
• Potential extended seasonal role (April–October)
• Summer-only applicants (June–August) will also be considered

Position Overview

Camp hours are Monday–Friday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Staff hours are approximately 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM to allow for preparation and wrap-up.

The Summer Camp Counselor will:

• Teach beginner riders English and Western
• Follow and implement our levels-based horsemanship curriculum
• Supervise campers both mounted and unmounted
• Maintain a safe, structured, and positive environment
• Manage daily camp flow and organization
• Communicate with parents professionally
• Ensure safety standards are consistently upheld

This role requires leadership, decision-making ability, and strong safety awareness.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily riding lessons for beginner riders
• Teach basic horsemanship, grooming, and horse care
• Supervise barn activities and ground sessions
• Prepare horses and tack for daily camp use
• Ensure horses are properly cooled out, untacked, and cared for
• Monitor camper safety at all times
• Maintain a clean and organized barn area
• Communicate with management regarding any issues or concerns

Outside of camp weeks, this role may include:

• Teaching beginner lessons
• Assisting with trail rides
• Supporting barn operations

Weekend work is not required but may be available for additional hours.

Requirements

• Must be 18 years or older
• Strong riding ability (English and Western preferred)
• Comfortable teaching beginner riders
• Confident handling horses independently
• Excellent safety awareness
• Strong communication skills
• Able to manage a group of children responsibly
• Professional and reliable

Teaching experience is preferred but not required for the right candidate with strong leadership ability.

Ideal Candidate

• Organized and proactive
• Calm under pressure
• Not easily overwhelmed
• Comfortable taking initiative
• Has a genuine interest in mentoring young riders
• Understands that safety is non-negotiable

Compensation

Competitive pay based on experience.
Seasonal and extended seasonal opportunities available.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $16.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Experience:

• Childcare: 1 year (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• First Aid Certification (Required)
• CPR Certification (Required)

Ability to Commute:

• Catskill, NY 12414 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Catskill, NY 12414: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $16