What are the responsibilities and job description for the Equestrian Program Specialist Intern position at Chestnut Ridge Camp and Retreat Center?
Company Description
Chestnut Ridge Camp and Retreat Center is a recreational facility located in Efland, North Carolina. The center offers a variety of outdoor activities and programs aimed at fostering personal growth and community building. Situated in a scenic area, the camp provides enriching outdoor experiences for participants of all ages. With a commitment to creating a welcoming and safe environment, Chestnut Ridge Camp emphasizes teamwork, learning, and fun for everyone involved.
Role Description
This internship is focused on career development for horse camp/ riding school management and equine herd management. Key focus areas of learning include: horsemanship, herd management, basic horse medical care, riding instructor certification, riding school management, hospitality/retreat management, children & teen ministry and development, administrative management, event planning, program and partnership development, and camp program policies. In this role, you will participate in and learn about year-round horse programs. You will also learn about designing horse programs, supervising staff, and teaching effective leadership skills. Based on your skills, you may additionally play a role in leadership or supervision for other programs during the summer camp season. Opportunities are available throughout the year for mentoring, workshops, and horse experiences to help prepare you for a career in equine program management. Equestrian Program interns must live on camp in shared housing. Housing and many meals are provided in this intentional Christian community which eats, prays, works, and plays together. No pets are allowed.
Equestrian Specialists are expected to work approximately 40 hours per week (5 days). Work schedule may vary seasonally. At least two weeks of paid time off will be available.
Responsibilities may include, but are not limited to:
- Care and feeding of horse herd
- Teaching riding lessons
- Leading trail rides
- Hosting horse events
- Planning programs and preparing facilities for campers and horse event participants
- Design, plan, and implement new summer horse camp activities and programs
- Occasional weekend hosting for retreat groups
- Participate in the worship life of the community
- Other duties as assigned
Desired Qualifications
- Candidate must be 21 or older and preference will be given to applicants who have attended college.
- At least 4 years of horse experience, including riding lessons: preference for college level equine studies
- Passion for and experience working with horses and children or youth
- Passion for working outdoors and sharing love and kindness,
- Experience in both Western and English riding preferred.
- Camp experience (even as a camper) preferred.
- Must be able to lift 50 lbs.
- Team player with a strong work ethic
- Excellent communication skills, gifts in hospitality, creativity, flexibility
- Applicants must be willing to have a flexible schedule and work some evenings, weekends or holidays as needed.