Equestrian Director

Frost Valley YMCA•Town of Neversink, NY

just now•Onsite

About The Position

The Equestrian Director provides strategic leadership for the horses, programs, staff, and facilities of Frost Valley YMCA’s Equestrian Centers at Main Camp and East Valley Ranch. This role is responsible for setting the vision and direction of Frost Valley’s equestrian programming, ensuring high standards of horse care, program quality, safety, and long-term sustainability. The Director oversees the care and management of a herd of approximately 20–90 horses (seasonally dependent), full equestrian facilities, and a team of one year-round and 4–12 seasonal staff. The Equestrian Director works with Program Directors to support equestrian day and overnight camp riding programs, and weekend trail rides while continuously assessing opportunities for growth and improvement. In addition to operational oversight, the Equestrian Director actively identifies and develops new equestrian programs, community partnerships, and outreach opportunities that expand access to riding experiences, strengthen connections with local organizations and schools, and enhance Frost Valley’s role as a regional equestrian resource. Through strategic planning, staff development, and partnership building, the Director works to grow participation, diversify offerings, and increase the overall impact of Frost Valley’s equestrian programs.

Requirements

Must be 25 years of age or older.
Bachelor’s degree in Equine Studies, Animal Science, Recreation, Education, or a related field preferred; equivalent professional experience may be considered.
3 to 5 years experience in the equestrian industry, including teaching riding (English and/or Western), barn or herd management, and supervision of equestrian staff.
Experience designing, implementing, or expanding equestrian programs and services to meet participant and community needs.
Demonstrated ability to build partnerships with schools, organizations, and community groups to expand access to equestrian programming.
Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, with the ability to manage teams, prioritize responsibilities, and perform effectively in a dynamic, outdoor environment.
Proficiency with computer applications, including Google Suite and database or record-management systems.
Certification from a nationally recognized equestrian organization (e.g., CHA or equivalent), and current First Aid/CPR certification, or willingness to obtain required certifications upon hire.
Ability to work effectively with children, families, staff, and community partners.
Valid U.S. driver’s license with the ability to meet Frost Valley YMCA driver training and approval requirements.
Physically able to lift up to 50 lbs and walk up to 10 miles a day
The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 15 pounds.
Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust.
The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience working in a YMCA, camp, or youth-serving organization preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide leadership and oversight for the care and management of a seasonal herd of approximately 20–90 horses, ensuring high standards of health, safety, and humane treatment.
Establish and oversee systems for feeding, veterinary and farrier care, conditioning, turnout, and seasonal herd transitions.
Assess and determine appropriate use and placement of each horse based on temperament, training, and physical condition, including staff-only use, beginner programming, retirement, sale, or acquisition.
Maintain accurate and comprehensive records for each horse, including health history, training status, workload, and usage data.
Lead the design, evaluation, and continuous improvement of equestrian programming to meet guest needs, increase retention, and align with Frost Valley’s mission.
Identify and develop new equestrian programs, community partnerships, and outreach opportunities that expand access to riding experiences and strengthen Frost Valley’s role as a regional equestrian resource.
Regularly review and update equestrian program quality standards, ensuring alignment with best practices in the equine industry and organizational goals.
Lead equestrian staff training and professional development, including documenting staff competencies, modeling appropriate horsemanship and guest engagement, and upholding all safety protocols.
Assist in the recruitment, hiring, training, and supervision of seasonal barn managers, summer equestrian staff, and per diem weekend staff.
Foster a positive, inclusive, and safety-focused staff culture grounded in clear expectations, coaching, and accountability.
Oversee the care, upkeep, and safety of barns, pastures, fencing, equipment, and equestrian facilities to ensure clean, well-functioning, and industry-standard environments.
Maintain availability for weekend equestrian programming during spring and fall seasons, including on-call support for urgent equestrian needs.
Coordinate closely with maintenance, summer camp, program, and operations teams to ensure equestrian needs are integrated into broader site planning and operations.
Ensure full compliance with CHA, ACA, DOH and other applicable equestrian industry standards, updating policies and procedures as needed.
Proactively manage risk related to equine care, facilities, staff practices, and guest participation.
Develop and manage the annual equestrian department budget, tracking expenses and identifying opportunities for cost control and resource optimization.
Contribute to long-range planning for equestrian programs, facilities, and herd sustainability.