Backcountry Wilderness Area Equine Program Instructor

JOB TITLE: Backcountry Wilderness Area Equine Program Instructor FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

General Statement of Duties: Responsible to plan and conduct engaging horseback riding lessons. This role includes ensuring the safety of guest riders and overseeing the daily care and maintenance of trail horses and other equine programs.

Supervision Received: Works under the supervision of the Backcountry Wilderness Area Equine Program Manager and Coordinator.

Supervision Exercised: None

JOB DESCRIPTION

Examples of Duties: The following examples of duties are intended to be illustrative only and are not intended to be all inclusive.

• Plan and instruct horseback riding lessons and equine programs for children (ages 3-17) and adults.
• Oversee the daily well-being of horses, including feeding, watering, basic care, and routine maintenance.
• Maintain and organize tack and other equine equipment.
• Keep staging and corral areas clean and organized.
• Safely move horses to and from designated pastures, ensuring all fences and gates are properly secured.
• Provide excellent customer service by educating participants about program rules and regulations.
• Maintain client records and coordinate lesson schedules.
• Collaborate with other instructors to ensure seamless equine programming.
• Obtain signed liability waivers from all participants.
• Monitor participant behavior to ensure discipline and safety.
• Work collaboratively with Backcountry Wilderness Area staff to achieve program goals.
• Respond effectively to emergencies and maintain a positive attitude in all situations.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Physical and Environmental Standards:

• Work is performed outdoors, often in adverse weather conditions, including heat, humidity, sun, rain, snow, wind, cold and extreme temperatures.

• Must be able to traverse uneven terrain and stand for extended periods.
• Ability to walk, sit, crouch, bend, kneel, stoop, reach, push, pull, and lift or carry objects up to 60 pounds unassisted.
• Vision requirements include near and far acuity.
• Manual dexterity is needed for typing, writing, using a calculator, and operating a phone.
• Effective communication is essential, including the ability to talk and hear clearly via phone and face-to-face interactions.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Minimum age of 18 years.

• Thorough knowledge of horsemanship.
• Preferred experience in teaching horseback riding.
• Interest in working with children and adapting lessons for diverse learners.
• Excellent customer service and conflict resolution skills.
• Strong work ethic, motivation, and ability to work independently.
• Current First Aid/CPR certification or ability to obtain certification prior to the first day of employment.

Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening.

Benefits: Benefits for part time employees include Paid Sick Leave, EAP (Employee Assistance Program), Tuition Reimbursement, Employee Discounts (30%) for Programs and Events, Referral Program, Recreation Center usage.

401k plus company match and Health Insurance, Telehealth and Flex Plans after one year if the minimum hours requirement is determined.

Education: Completion of High School preferred.

Experience: Minimum of 3 years of horse care and riding experience, with a preference for prior teaching experience in horseback riding.

Application Submittal Deadline: 3/31/2025

$15-$18/hour Entry level, minimum previous childcare or environmental education experience

$18-$22/hour Considered a lead under licensing requirements (over 460 hrs childcare experience. See Colorado State Licensing Rules and Regulations)

$22-$25/hour All of the above qualifications plus college degree and/or 3 years professional experience

$25-28/hour All of the above qualifications plus college degree and or 5 years professional experience

EOE