What are the responsibilities and job description for the Barn Manager & Trail Guide position at Sweetwater Campground, Ranch & Riding Stables?
Sweetwater Campground & Riding Stables is looking for a dependable, experienced horse person who is passionate about equine care, petting zoo upkeep and takes pride in keeping animals healthy, clean, and guest-ready every single day.
This is a full-time, hands-on position requiring 40 hours per week, including weekends. If you're looking for a role where you'll primarily manage from a desk, this is not the position. We are looking for someone who enjoys working directly with horses every day and isn't afraid of hard work.
Pay: $15.00–$20.00 per hour, based on experience, horsemanship, reliability, and work ethic.
Schedule: Five days per week (40 hours), including weekends. Regular day off on Wednesday plus one additional flex day.
Daily Responsibilities
Every day, you will be actively involved in the care of our horses and ranch operations, including:
- Feeding and watering horses each morning and evening
- Grooming and brushing every horse
- Picking and cleaning horse hooves
- Bathing horses as needed to keep them clean and healthy
- Saddling and unsaddling horses
- Cleaning and conditioning saddles daily
- Cleaning saddle pads and tack daily
- Mucking stalls and keeping barns clean
- Inspecting every horse daily for injuries, soreness, weight changes, illness, or behavioral concerns
- Providing hands-on interaction with all horses every day
- Exercising and riding horses regularly to maintain conditioning and evaluate soundness
- Preparing horses for guided trail rides
Horse Health & Barn Management
You'll also be responsible for:
- Scheduling veterinarian visits
- Coordinating Coggins testing, vaccinations, deworming, dental care, and farrier appointments
- Maintaining accurate health records
- Monitoring feed intake and adjusting care when horses need extra attention
- Keeping tack rooms, barns, feed rooms, and equipment clean, organized, and safe
Trail Ride Responsibilities
- Lead guided trail rides
- Teach guests basic riding safety
- Match riders with appropriate horses
- Ensure every ride is safe and enjoyable
- Handle guest and horse emergencies calmly and professionally
We're Looking For Someone Who
- Has previous horse handling and riding experience
- Loves working directly with horses every day
- Notices problems before they're pointed out
- Takes ownership without being asked
- Is dependable, hardworking, and physically capable of outdoor labor
- Is comfortable working in Louisiana heat and all weather conditions
- Can safely lift 50 pounds or more
- Understands that horse care comes first
This is a physically demanding role, but it's also incredibly rewarding for someone who truly enjoys caring for horses and being part of a growing ranch community.
Salary : $15 - $20