Equine Specialist

The Ridge RTC•Morrill, ME

9d•$23 - $25•Onsite

About The Position

The Equine Specialist works under the direction of the Equine Program Manager (EPM) to ensure appropriate and safe equine programming for clients. This individual is motivated to have a positive impact on the lives of youth by helping them to engage meaningfully in growth and learning experiences with horses and other animals. They develop transferable life skills including communication, organization and time management, commitment to safety, teamwork, goal setting, follow through and celebration. The ideal candidate will have a passion for horses, experience as an instructor/trainer, knowledge of stable management, be capable of the physical demands of the role, and have experience working with youth in a residential setting.

Requirements

Strong interpersonal skills, ability to give and receive appropriate and timely communication
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
Ability to dependably & consistently serve as a positive role model to cleints and peers
Strong collaboration skills & teamwork ability
Demonstrates empathy and compassion to support diversity and inclusion
Proven success operating in dynamic and changing environments
Demonstrates sound judgment & professionalism
Must be able to pass a pre-employment physical showing the ability to: lift up to 75 pounds, carry 50 pounds for 30 feet, lift 35 pounds over head, traverse irregular, uneven, and steep terrain, complete tasks in a noisy environment, adhere to process protocol, apply established protocols in a timely manner
5+ years of experience working with and riding horses required
Experience with behavior and group management required
High School Diploma/GED required
Must be able to pass extensive background checks, including fingerprinting

Nice To Haves

College degree in related fields preferred (social work, psychology, human services, etc.)
Certification as an Equine Specialist a plus
Current CPR & First-Aid Certifications, and Certified BHP a plus

Responsibilities

Facilitating horsemanship classes for small groups in coordination with therapist
Facilitating individual EAP sessions with therapists
Providing EAL sessions in natural horsemanship, mounted and unmounted sessions
Demonstrate compassion for people and animals consisted with the trauma informed workplace
Providing individual and small group riding lessons for eligible clients, as determined by EPM
Ability to safely guide individual and small groups on trial rides
Working in collaboration with EPM, Program Managers, and support staff to coordinate group horsemanship lessons of large groups of clients
Match horses and riders for safety and success
Exercising and schooling horses
Identifying and treating soundness issues
Inspect tack & equipment for proper fit and safety, including tack cleaning and maintenance
Use only non-violent training and communication methods when working with horses
Assisting the EPM in all aspects of horse care, including grooming, bathing, clipping
Assist the EPM with facilities maintenance and repairs, including fencing and putting in hay, etc.
Recognition of illness and injuries and reporting to EPM
Following treatment plans for illness and injuries as directed by EPM
Supporting and training clients in completing chores
Completing chores as needed to ensure horses/animals receive quality care
Assist during emergencies as needed. Ability to make decisions regarding calling a vet should the EPM be unavailable.
Ensure proper and prompt communication with EMP of any incidents or concerns regarding either client safety in the barn, or horses' behavior that should be addressed.
Applying knowledge and ability to care for goats and other farm animals.