Assistant Manager - Horseback

Join a company that is involved in many diverse operations in one of the most beautiful places in Hawai'i. Kualoa Ranch Hawai'i has enjoyed a proud past and looks forward to an exciting future. A team committed to Hawai'i . . . its history, community, visitors & each other. Be a part of it! Share with our guests the beauty, history and culture of Hawai'i!

Location: On-Site - Kaneohe, HI.
Relocation Package: None

Application Closing Date:
Schedule: Full-time; open availability including weekends and holidays is required.

Position Summary
The Assistant Manager – Horseback Operations is responsible for supporting the Horseback Tour team and ensuring the smooth daily operations of the department. This role focuses on employee training, safety, and education to maintain the highest standards of guest experience. The Assistant Manager assists with customer service, herd health, tack safety, and operational logistics. This position requires a strong equestrian background, leadership skills, and the ability to make confident operational decisions. This position is ideal for a candidate with a passion for equestrian operations, guest experiences, and team leadership. If you thrive in a hands-on, fast-paced environment and have a strong equestrian background, we encourage you to apply!

Key Responsibilities
Staff Training & Development

• Train and supervise a team of horseback trail guides.
• Conduct new hire training and ongoing staff development focusing on riding techniques, safety protocols, and tour narration.
• Develop and lead educational sessions on horseback riding and Hawaiian culture.
• Perform trail guide evaluations to ensure consistency in safety, tour quality, and guest experience.
• Communicate daily updates and potential changes due to staffing, herd conditions, or weather.

Guest Experience & Safety

• Respond to guest inquiries and feedback, resolving issues promptly.
• Assist with horseback tours as needed, ensuring guests receive a safe and enjoyable experience.
• Ensure guides follow proper procedures for guest safety and comfort during tours.

Horse & Equipment Care

• Assist with herd health management, ensuring horses receive proper feeding, hydration, and medical attention.
• Maintain tack and equipment safety, ensuring proper storage and usage.
• Oversee daily chores, including grooming, saddling, and general barn upkeep.
• Monitor and assist with morning and evening procedures, including opening and closing responsibilities.

Operational & Administrative Duties

• Maintain and adjust the daily staff schedule for adequate coverage.
• Manage and file incident reports promptly.
• Coordinate and schedule trail and depot repairs as needed.
• Ensure all opening and closing procedures, as outlined in the SOPs, are followed to maintain safety, cleanliness, and operational efficiency.
• Stay knowledgeable about all aspects of daily operations and proactively resolve operational challenges.

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to ride, mount, and dismount horses independently.
• Ability to lift a minimum of 50lbs, up to 75lbs regularly (saddles, feed, tack).
• Comfortable working in outdoor conditions, including varying weather and rough terrain.
• Must be able to stand, walk, and perform physical tasks for extended periods.
• Ability to respond quickly to emergency situations involving horses or guests.

Minimum Qualifications

• 2 years of supervisory experience.
• Advanced horseback riding and training experience.
• Knowledge of basic veterinary care, tack fitting, and barn management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experienced leader with strong communication skills, capable of working with both front-line staff and upper management.
• Ability to identify operational challenges and confidently implement solutions.
• Skilled at making independent decisions to improve daily operations for staff, guests, and the horse herd.
• Experience in guest service and hospitality.
• Knowledge of Hawaiian culture and history related to horseback riding and land stewardship.

Kualoa Ranch Hawai'i is proud to be a drug free and equal opportunity employer. We do not unlawfully discriminate in employment and no question on this application is used for the purpose of limiting or excusing any applicant from consideration for employment on a basis prohibited by applicable local, state, or federal law.