What are the responsibilities and job description for the Programming Assistant and Instructor position at Agape?
Job Description
The Program Assistant & Instructor is a dual-role position responsible for supporting overall program operations while also serving as an instructor for equine-assisted activities. This full-time position requires flexibility in balancing administrative responsibilities, hands-on equine support, and teaching.
If qualified and interested, please send a cover letter and resume to Rachel Elder, Program Director, at programdirector@agaperiding.org
Position Type: Dual Role, Full-Time, Hourly, Non-Exempt
Location: Cicero, Indiana
Reports To: Program Director
Work Schedule & Compensation:
- Full-time position with assigned hours split between program support and instructor duties.
- Hourly pay varies based on role responsibilities.
- Some evening or weekend hours may be required based on program needs.
Culture Cultivation and Personal Growth:
- Operate with the utmost integrity and standards of excellence to the team
- Go above and beyond to serve others
- Have strength based communication and a growth mindset
- Show an attitude of being ‘hungry, humble, and smart’
- Cultivate a culture centered around Agape’s Core Values
Locations
Lesson Openings
N/A
Our Vision
We believe that lives can experience healing and joy in an environment where unconditional love and the wonderment of a horse connect, creating a haven for unbridled hope.
Our Mission
Agape cultivates personal growth by strengthening the mind, body, and spirit through unique horse-facilitated experiences.
Primary Responsibilities
Admin Program Support Duties
The Program Assistant will work under the direction of the Program Director and may be assigned tasks to various department managers, including the Volunteer Manager, Site Manager, and Equine Manager, to support program operations.
- Maintain and update volunteer records, including background checks, liability releases, and input into management software.
- Generate reports on volunteer participation and engagement.
- Enter and update rider information in Salesforce and maintain participation logs.
- Ensure annual paperwork updates for participants, including registration and physician release forms.
- Assist with horse training and conditioning to support lesson and therapy needs.
- Assist with volunteer training of horse care, handling, and management.
- Assist with general administrative duties and data management as assigned.
- Other duties as assigned and approved by the Program Director.
Instructor Duties
- Plan and conduct safe, effective, and engaging equine-assisted services (ie: TR, EAL, Mini Visits, Camps, etc) in accordance with program standards.
- Assess rider progress and adapt lesson plans to meet individual needs.
- Ensure proper use and care of program horses and equipment.
- Supervise volunteers assisting with lessons and provide guidance as needed.
- Maintain accurate lesson records, attendance, and progress notes.
- Support program goals by fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment.
- Communicate with participants, caregivers, and staff regarding lesson updates and rider progress.
- Follow all safety protocols and program policies.
Qualifications & Required Skills
- Experience in administrative support, volunteer coordination, or related fields preferred.
- PATH Intl., CTRI certification required, or the ability to attain certification within one year of hire.
- Experience in horse training or equine care is preferred.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills.
- Proficiency in database management, Microsoft Office, and communication tools.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Passion for serving individuals through equine-assisted programs.
