Therapeutic Riding Instructor

Helen Woodward Animal Center • Rancho Santa Fe, CA

1d • Onsite

About The Position

Therapeutic Riding Instructors Needed! Helen Woodward Animal Center is seeking a passionate Therapeutic Riding Instructor to join their team in Rancho Santa Fe, CA. This part-time role (approximately 24 hours per week) involves weekdays, weekends (Sunday required), and holidays as needed. The ideal candidate is passionate about developing a rider's potential through learning to ride, control, and bond with horses, and has experience providing equine-assisted services (EAS) for individuals with special needs. Helen Woodward Animal Center is one of the few facilities in Southern California certified by PATH International. This role is ideal for a registered-level PATH Int'l instructor with several years of advanced riding experience. The position offers exposure to proper therapeutic techniques, PATH Int'l safety standards, and community connection building.

Requirements

• Current PATH Intl. certification as a registered-level instructor is required.
• At least 2 years of experience working or volunteering at a PATH Intl. Premiere Accredited Therapeutic Riding or Member Center.
• Demonstrated experience in handling personnel concerns with urgency and professionalism.
• Reliable team player committed to building positive relationships and adapting to several roles and tasks when needed.
• Consistent record of attendance and punctuality.
• Solutions/results oriented and passionate about meeting individual and team goals.
• Willing and able to perform consistent physical activity including walking, standing, sitting, bending, lifting and assisting children of young ages and reaching overhead.
• Candidates will spend up to 95% of the time working outdoors.
• Working in close proximity to animals therefore allergens and dander is present at all times.
• A LiveScan fingerprint background check is required.

Nice To Haves

• Advanced or Mastery-level PATH Int'l credential is preferred.
• 3-5 years working with horses, advanced level of instructor-riding is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Ensuring the safety and welfare of riders, horses, and volunteers at all times during therapy sessions.
• Being attentive, knowledgeable, and proactive towards a client's personal disabilities and behavioral tendencies.
• Preparing, coaching to, and evaluating lesson plans in a manner consistent with the client's capabilities and progression.
• Coordinating care with families, physical, and/or occupational therapists of clients.
• Actively recruiting and assisting in the training of horses for the therapeutic program.
• Leading and directing volunteers assisting with the program and promoting a respect-first environment.
• Performing various therapeutic duties or customer interactions with an energetic and professional spirit.
• Ensuring quality animal care and maintaining records accurately, confidentially, accessibly, and safely.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed