Horse Trainer

Devil's Thumb Ranch

3d • $20 - $25

About The Position

Passionate about the outdoors and seeking a career in Colorado's stunning mountains? Join Devil’s Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa in our Stables Department for an unforgettable experience surrounded by the Rockies' beauty. Work with animals, lead adventures, and create lasting memories for guests. Affordable shared staff housing allows you to live amidst this picturesque setting, with easy access to year-round outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and exploration. Turn your passion into a rewarding career in one of Colorado’s best mountain towns!

Principle Purpose of Job
The Horse Trainer at Devil's Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa is key to ensuring the success of our mission by overseeing the training, conditioning and care of our horses. This role involves planning, directing, and executing daily training operations at Cabin Creek Stables.

Requirements

• Minimum of 10 years of experience in training, conditioning, and equine upkeep in any discipline. Western and trail training preferred but not required
• Must have experience with teamster driving either mules, drafts, single and double
• Prepare horses for entry into the guest program with the goal of taking guests ranging from beginner to advanced level with a focus on safety.
• Able to make organized training schedule to maintain, condition, train DTR Herd
• First Aid/CPR certified, ensuring readiness to handle emergencies effectively.
• Proficient in training wranglers and translating methods of training to staff effectively
• Skilled in working with stable livestock, ensuring safe and efficient guest operations.
• Possess expert knowledge in all aspects of horsemanship, including trail riding and driving teams of draft horses.
• Well-versed in horse health and the care of large animals, capable of identifying and addressing health issues proactively.
• Must be flexible and able to perform physically demanding tasks such as lift up to 50 pounds regularly and stand for long periods of time in various weather conditions, demonstrating resilience and a strong work ethic.
• PLEASE NOTE - This is a full-time riding position, and the trainer must be able to be in the saddle as much as possible. This position will guarantee at least 20-30 younger riding horses and 20-30 conditioning/upkeep older horses as well as assisting management in evaluating and purchasing new horses.

Nice To Haves

• Western and trail training preferred but not required
• Experience with Natural Horsemanship preferred but not required

Responsibilities

• Oversee comprehensive horsemanship training programs for all staff, with a primary focus on the safety and skill development of wranglers and guests.
• Facilitate and manage the training of all horses, both under saddle and in harness, ensuring consistent progress and well-being.
• Conduct training sessions that are visible to guests, providing informative and engaging answers to their questions regarding groundwork, stretching, conditioning, riding, driving, and more.
• Collaborate with management to plan and organize horsemanship clinics, including scheduling and setting appropriate rates.
• Evaluate tack fits regularly and educate staff on proper saddle fitting techniques to ensure the comfort and health of the horses.
• Assist the Manager in acquiring new horses and evaluating the current livestock for potential rehoming to maintain a balanced and healthy herd.
• Communicate maintenance needs to management and assist in the upkeep of carriages, wagons, and sleighs to ensure they are in optimal condition.
• Maintain a safe and well-organized riding arena, addressing any safety concerns promptly.
• Provide support in the care and veterinary treatment of animals as needed, ensuring their health and well-being.
• Report any injuries to management immediately and assist in the development and implementation of recovery and rehabilitation plans for affected animals.

Benefits

• 152 hours of Paid Time Off if FT, Year-Round employment status.
• Affordable housing options are available for employees working a minimum of 35 hours per week, based on availability.
• Health, Dental, Life & Vision Insurances, plus 401k Employer Match of up to $2,000 annually—if FT, Year-Round employment status.
• Wellness Program opportunities including meditation, complimentary daily Yoga, trail running, and mountain-biking workshops.
• Opportunities for continued education through tuition reimbursement and professional development programs.
• 25% discounts at all Devil's Thumb Ranch restaurants, activities including Trail Rides, and Spa Treatments.
• Discounted Winter Park Ski Resort season pass (available annually in season) or 1/2 price Grand Park Rec Center Pass.
• Referral bonus of $250 if we hire someone you refer.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees