Equine Specialist

Equine Specialist Role:

Equine Specialists (ES) are expected to provide Adaptive Riding/Groundwork in both an individual and group setting. Adaptive Riding provides area youth and adults with an opportunity to work on their individual mental health goals through partnership with horses. In addition, Equine Specialists will partner with a licensed therapist to provide Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. Equine Specialists must meet the training requirements of the program and follow all of the organization's policies and procedures. They will be responsible for providing groundwork and riding sessions structured to meet the needs and goals of each individual participant. In addition, the ES is responsible for the safety of program participants and the horses during sessions. Equine Specialists are also responsible for maintaining the cleanliness of the equine work area during and after sessions.

Equine Specialist Responsibilities:

· Herd Education – ability to determine which horse is most appropriate for each session

· Knowledgeable on safety measures for both horses and participants

· Ability to teach ground work and riding skills to individuals with differing abilities

• Assist with goal setting, create lesson plans, and implement strategies that address the specific needs of participants
• Maintain effective communication with participants, their families, and team members to ensure satisfaction and effective collaboration

· Ability to complete appropriate documentation for all equine sessions/clients

· Attend staff and team meetings in person or via zoom

· Understand and follow our agencies framework for ethical standards and practices

· Follow guidelines for appropriate dress

· Ability to work successfully in a team of professionals

· Understand the structure and basis of our program

· Be knowledgeable and willing to advance your understanding on mental health, confidentiality, and youth development

• Commit to ongoing professional development, including acquiring necessary continuing education units (CEUs) and maintaining First Aid and CPR certification

· Assist with barn chores/horse care on an as needed basis

· Ability meet the physical requirements of the position including but not limited to, walking, running, stair use, and the ability to lift up to 50lbs

· Ability to manage your own schedule and work independently or in a group

Qualities of an Equine Specialist:

· Supportive, Encouraging, and Assertive

· Critical Thinker

· Clear Communicator

· Organized – Planful

· Empathetic – Compassionate

· Strength Focused

· Respectful and Patient

Experience: 3 Years or 1,000 Hours of Horse Experience

· Specialized experience in the following areas:

o Groundwork, riding knowledge, and experience

o Extensive safety knowledge

o Horse health and care knowledge

o Extensive understanding of equine psychology including understanding equine body language and behavioral ques

o Certified as a PATH Intl. Therapeutic Riding instructor (CTRI) and/or Equine Specialist in Mental Health and Learning (ESMHL) OR be willing to obtain certification within one year of employment

§ EAGALA/other certifications may also be considered

Education: High School Diploma or Above

Eligibility Requirements:

· 3 Years of Horse Experience (or 1,000 hours)

· Have reliable transportation

· Be willing and able to spend a minimum of 15 hours per week providing service

· Have never been accused, arrested, charged or convicted of child abuse/neglect, molestation or any sexual misconduct

· Be able to communicate with administrative staff in a routinely and timely (within 24 hours)

· Not falsified information during the course of the screening process

· Be able to adhere to all Trinity policies and procedures

*If you are interested or have questions about becoming an Equine Specialist with Trinity, we would love to hear from you! Please reach out to equineservices@trinity-ec.com for our official application.

Pay: $18.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Application Question(s):

• Do you have 3 years of horse experience or (1000 hours)?

Ability to Commute:

• Eau Claire, WI 54701 (Required)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $18 - $30