Apprentice Stable Groom

Who We Are

Founded in 1926, the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation is a private, not-for-profit educational, historic, and cultural institution that owns and operates one of the largest and best-known museum complexes in the world. Our mission is “that the future may learn from the past” through preserving and restoring 18th-century Williamsburg, Virginia’s colonial capital. We engage, inform, and inspire people to learn about this historic capital, the events that occurred here, and the diverse peoples who helped shape a new nation.

Today, Colonial Williamsburg is the largest living history museum in the U.S. The Historic Area is the 301-acre restored colonial capital with 89 original buildings and 525 buildings reconstructed to how they appeared in the 18th century through extensive archaeological, architectural, and documentary research. The Historic Area is staffed by highly trained, historically dressed interpreters and expert tradespeople who bring the 18th century to life. The Foundation also owns and operates two world-class museums, the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum, and the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, The Bob and Marion Wilson Teacher Institute, and a renowned research library, the John D Rockefeller Jr Library.

Additionally, Colonial Williamsburg is home to five world class accommodations at the Williamsburg Inn, Williamsburg Lodge Autograph Collection, the Griffin Hotel, the Williamsburg Woodlands Hotels and Suites and the unique Colonial Houses in the Historical Area. Visitors may also indulge in food and drink at our many on site restaurants and taverns that blend a historically inspired dining experience with today’s evolved tastes. Each year over 5 million people visit Williamsburg and another 20 million engage with us digitally.

About the Position

The Stable Groom is responsible for the daily care and maintenance of the horses, carriages, and facilities within the carriage operation at Colonial Williamsburg. This role ensures the health and well-being of our historic rare breed horses while supporting the safe and efficient operation of our 10-carriage fleet. The Stable Groom works closely with the Lead Groom, Barn Manager, Coach Drivers, and other team members to maintain a historically accurate and functional equine program that enhances the museum’s interpretive mission.

Essential Functions:

Horse Care & Management:

• Provide daily feeding, watering, and turnout for a herd of 25 horses, following established nutrition and health plans.
• Groom, tack, and harness horses in preparation for carriage operations, ensuring safety and historical accuracy.
• Monitor equine health, report concerns to the Barn Manager, and assist with veterinary and farrier visits.
• Administer basic first aid and medication as directed.

Stable & Facility Maintenance:

• Muck stalls, clean paddocks, and maintain cleanliness of the barn, tack room, and storage areas.
• Maintain and clean tack, harnesses, and equipment, reporting any needed repairs.
• Assist with routine carriage cleaning and maintenance to ensure a professional appearance.

Operational Support:

• Assist Coach Drivers with horse handling and preparation before and after carriage tours.
• Support team training efforts by handling and exercising horses as directed.
• Engage with guests by answering questions about the horses, carriages, and stable operations.

Safety & Compliance:

• Follow all safety protocols related to horse handling, carriage operations, and guest interaction.
• Ensure compliance with museum policies and equine welfare standards.
• Report any safety hazards or equipment concerns promptly.

Required and Preferred Education and Experience: 

Required:

• High School Diploma or GED (or equivalent experience in horse care)
• Hands-on experience working with horses, such as in a stable, farm, or equestrian facility
• Basic knowledge of horse handling, feeding, and health care

Preferred:

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s Degree in Equine Science, Animal Science, Agricultural Studies, or a related field
• Certifications in Equine Care & Handling, such as:
  • Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA) certification
  • Equine First Aid certification
• Previous experience in carriage driving operations, historic sites, or tourism-focused equine programs

Qualifications:

• Previous experience working with horses in a professional or structured setting.
• Basic knowledge of horse care, feeding, grooming, and health monitoring.
• Ability to handle and work around large horses confidently and safely.
• Willingness to perform physical labor in various weather conditions.