Youth Counselor (Wrangler) - Summer 2026

Makar Hotels And Resorts LMR LLC•Big Sky, MT

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Join the dynamic team at Lone Mountain Ranch as a Youth Horse Counselor in the Lone Mountain Rangers program! This exciting role involves guiding preschool through middle school-aged adventurers through a variety of fun and educational activities, from horseback riding and archery to axe throwing, high ropes, and hiking through the stunning landscape. You’ll be the heart of our vibrant program, ensuring each participant has an unforgettable experience while keeping them safe, engaged, and supported. You’ll manage daily schedules, lead activities, lead horse activities, and ensure that every child is immersed in the wonders of the great outdoors, all while building lifelong memories. The ideal candidate is an enthusiastic, energetic, educated equestrian, and loves working with kids in an outdoor setting. We’re looking for someone who can turn everyday moments into exciting adventures, communicate with kids and parents alike, and be part of an amazing team committed to making a positive impact. The Youth Horse Counselor will have a dedication to safety and the well-being of both guests and animals. Previous experience with horses, trail riding and basic equine care, along with a commitment to maintaining a pristine, organized work environment, is highly preferred. If you're passionate about inspiring young minds and want to be a part of a truly unique experience, we’d love to have you on our team!

Requirements

Minimum of 2 years of experience horseback riding, trail rides, and basic horse care
Proven ability to handle horses in various settings and a strong understanding of equine behavior
Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, with a passion for engaging and inspiring young participants
Ability to work as part of a team and adapt to changing schedules and needs
Comfort workingand leading short trail ridesin varying weather conditions
A positive, upbeat attitude and a love for the outdoors
Availability to work weekends and holidays, contributing to the flexibility of the program
A creative mindset and a knack for making every moment exciting and fun

Nice To Haves

Experience working with children, youth, or in recreational programs is a plus
First Aid & CPR Certification (can be obtained during the season)
Lifeguard certificationa plus

Responsibilities

Supervise and engage participants ages 3 to 14 in a variety of recreational activities such as horseback riding, archery, axe throwing, high ropes, hiking, arts and crafts, sports, and nature explorations as part of the Lone Mountain Rangers program
Lead andfacilitateoutdoor adventures, ensuring activities are fun, educational, and appropriately tailored for each age group
Lead participants ages 6 to 14 on30–60-minutetrail ridesup to 5 times per week, ensuring safety and enjoymentforall skill levels.
Assistthe wrangling team with conducting safety briefings before rides, covering proper riding techniques, equipment usage, and trail etiquette, whilemonitoringparticipant safety during the ride.
Assistthe wrangling team withmounting/dismounting participants,checking equipment and adjusting equipment as needed.
Lead participants ages 3 to 5 on 10-15-minute pony rides, ensuringthe safetyof both the guest and animalsdaily.
Implement behavior policies to ensure a positive and respectful atmosphere among participants
Teach about Montana’s history, flora, and fauna in a fun, interactive, and engaging way
Administer first aid when necessary, and confidently manage emergency situations with professionalism and care
Maintainaccuraterecords of program activities, attendance, and participant progress
Ensure that safety protocols are consistently communicated and followed by both staff and participants
Prepare and clean up materials, equipment, and activity spaces at the beginning and end of each session
Foster respect forpersonal property, ranch equipment, and facilities among participants
Assistwith program set-up andlogisticsto ensure a smooth daily operation
Communicate with parents and guests, providing details about daily activities and ensuring a positive experience
Work collaboratively with fellow counselors and Ranch staff to create an exciting, fun, and safe experience for everyone
Work collaborativelywith Barn Leadership tocommunicatethe needsof participants for eachhorsebackride
Monitor the overall well-being and behavior of participants during drop-off, pick-up, and free time
Help create lasting memories for kids while ensuring a top-notch guest experience
Assistwithspecial eventsacross the ranch as needed.
Mustwear the designated uniform while on duty.

Benefits

Seasonal Bonus Program:
All hourly employees will be able to participate in our seasonal bonus program. Each hourly employee will receive $1 per hour worked per season and $1.50 per overtime hour worked. Employees who are terminated or resign from their position before the end of each season, will not be able to participate in this program. If the season is cut short due to business levels, the employee will still participate in this program. Positions that are contracted at a shorter term, like the Outdoor Youth Adventures program, this employee will be able to participate in this program. All hours worked outside of these seasonal ranges will not apply to this bonus program.
Staff Cafeteria:
We also want to keep you hydrated and nourished. You will have access to our staff cafeteria which provides 3 meals a day, as well as a large selection of grab and go items to suit anyone’s day.
Ranch Gratuity:
In addition to your hourly rate, you will receive a ranch gratuity unique to us.
Ranch Wide Activities:
We also understand that every full work week requires a little me time. And what better way to unwind than to take advantage of the many summer activities the ranch has to offer? If there are openings, you have free access to the following in the summer season: horseback riding, Outdoor Youth Adventures Program, Yellowstone National Park Tours, yoga, and mountain biking. During the winter months, you will have access to 50 Miles of world renown cross country ski trails right outside your back door.
Arrival
While we know that we are in one of the most beautiful and sought-after destinations in America, we also know we are a little off the beaten path. The ranch will provide complimentary transportation to and from the airport, should you come to us by air.
Opportunity to move to Full-Time, Regular Status and receive additional benefits.
If you remain with us for 1 full year and worked a minimum of 1560 hours during our 12-month lookback period (that takes place at the end of each year), you are eligible to move to full-time status. Full-time status means Vacation and Sick pay, medical, dental, life and vision insurance. This will be effective the first of the month following 30 days of your full-time employment hire date or status. The Ranch will pay for 80% of the premiums for employees and any dependents. Employees will be responsible for paying the remaining 20% of the premiums. Payment is deducted automatically from the employee’s semi- monthly paycheck at a pre-taxed rate.