Barn Assistant and Riding Instructor
Ridgebury Farm & Stables · Ridgefield, CT · 2 wk ago
On-siteEducationFull-time
About the role
This is an on-site Barn Assistant and Riding Instructor role based at Ridgebury Farm & Stables in Ridgefield, CT.
Responsibilities
- Daily horse care such as feeding, watering, grooming, mucking stalls, turnout, and monitoring horse health and behavior.
- Stable management tasks, including maintaining clean and safe barns, arenas, and equipment, assisting with scheduling farrier and veterinary visits, and supporting farm operations as needed.
- Plan and lead lessons for riders of varying ages and abilities, with particular sensitivity to individuals with intellectual, social, or physical challenges, ensuring a safe, inclusive, and encouraging learning environment.
- Work closely with staff, volunteers, and families to support therapeutic and recreational riding programs and may assist with special events, clinics, and program outreach.
Qualifications
- Demonstrated riding proficiency and equestrian experience appropriate for teaching lessons and modeling safe riding practices.
- Skills in Horse Care and Stable Management, including daily care, barn safety, and basic health monitoring.
- Experience in Riding Instruction, including lesson planning, adapting instruction for different abilities, and maintaining a safe riding environment.
- Experience in Horse Training or handling diverse horse temperaments, with a focus on calm, consistent, and humane methods.
- Ability to work collaboratively with a nonprofit team, volunteers, and families in a mission-driven, therapeutic setting.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with patience and empathy for individuals with a wide range of needs and abilities.
- Physical ability to perform barn work, lift and carry supplies, and work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
- Previous experience in therapeutic riding, instruction, or farm-based programs is preferred; relevant certifications (e.g., PATH Intl. or similar) are a plus.
- Flexibility to work weekends, evenings, and special events as program needs require.