Riding Instructor (Part-time)

BREC Recreation And Park Commission for the Parish of East Baton Rouge•Baton Rouge, LA

10d•Onsite

About The Position

The Riding Instructor is responsible for providing safe, engaging, and educational horseback riding lessons in both Western and/or English disciplines to participants of varying skill levels at BREC’s Farr Park Equestrian Center. This position ensures the well-being of both riders and horses during lessons and programs by following established safety protocols and best practices in equestrian instruction. The Riding Instructor evaluates rider abilities, develops lesson plans, and teaches proper riding techniques, horse handling, and care. The Riding Instructor serves as a positive role model, promoting horsemanship, safety, and respect for animals and participants while also contributing to daily barn operations.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Specific training in courses to be taught
Certification in equestrian instruction from a recognized organization
Experience in teaching or training relevant to the job
Knowledge of Western and/or English riding disciplines, techniques, and instruction methods.
Knowledge of basic horse care practices such as feeding, grooming, tack use, and barn safety procedures.
Ability to instruct beginner to intermediate riders in a patient, clear, and supportive manner.
Ability to maintain a safe and controlled environment for riders and horses.
Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and follow established barn procedures and guidelines.
Ability to assess horse behavior and rider skill level to ensure appropriate horse/rider pairing.
Specific knowledge of course material and discipline being taught.
Ability to manage multiple responsibilities, including instruction, horse care, and program support.
Demonstrated reliability, responsibility, and strong attention to detail.
Ability to plan and instruct classes in a professional and proficient manner.
Ability to work closely with the general public.
Skill in effective verbal communication to convey riding techniques, safety expectations, and constructive feedback.

Nice To Haves

Associate's degree or graduation from an accredited 4-year college or university.
Two or more years of experience

Responsibilities

Planning and delivering classes in a professional, proficient and courteous manner.
Maintaining and enhancing positive public relations.
Complying with and enforcing BREC safety regulations; responding to and reporting accidents within a specific timeframe.
Maintain class roster and take attendance
Collecting and submitting payments for course fees.
Provide beginner to intermediate riding instruction in Western and/or English disciplines in a safe, structured, and supportive environment.
Deliver age-appropriate instruction to children and adults, promoting confidence, horsemanship skills, and proper riding techniques.
Assist with and/or lead horseback riding activities during seasonal programming, including summer camps.
Support and participate in the Hearts and Hooves adaptive riding program by providing instruction tailored to participant needs.
Assist with weekend programming, including trail rides and birthday party activities.
Ensure all riding lessons and activities adhere to established barn safety protocols and operational standards.
Communicate effectively with students and participants to support skill development and safety awareness.
Perform daily barn operations, including feeding, watering, haying, and maintaining horse stalls as needed.
Maintain clean, organized tack rooms and equipment areas.
Properly saddle, bridle, and fit tack to ensure safety and comfort for both horse and rider.
Observe and monitor horse health and behavior; promptly report concerns to appropriate personnel.
Ride and school lesson horses to maintain responsiveness, soundness, and suitability for instructional use.
Promote consistency in the training and behavior of lesson horses across all programs.