Equestrian Operations Staff

Part-time role supporting Campus Recreation programs and facilities, with a focus on the Equestrian Center. Responsibilities include operational oversight, customer service, facility maintenance, and safety compliance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the Equestrian Center during operational hours, ensuring horse care, facility cleanliness, customer service, and effective operations.
• Supervise student employees and approved CSER volunteers, monitoring performance and adherence to policies and procedures.
• Maintain and enforce risk management procedures and policies at the Equestrian Center, ensuring compliance with University policies.
• Document and report incidents and injuries at the Equestrian Center.
• Assist with facility maintenance, including feeding, watering, grooming, exercising, and turning out horses as needed.
• Support Equestrian Center programming, such as recreational events, camps, lessons, and trail rides.
• Maintain equipment and facilities, including regular cleaning.
• Oversee operations or events during evening, night, or weekend hours.
• Attend required Campus Recreation trainings and meetings.
• Perform additional tasks assigned by the Assistant Director of Operations to support Campus Recreation Facilities.
• Work effectively as a team member, embracing and fostering the University’s mission.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Supervise student employees during shifts.

Requirements

• 5+ years of prior horse experience (ownership, stable employment, and/or professional equine experience).
• Current CPR/AED and First Aid Certification.
• Ability to work up to 29 hours per week.
• Availability to work varied shifts, including weekends, early mornings, afternoons, and late nights.

Preferred Qualifications

• 4-year college degree from an accredited university.
• Management experience.
• Experience working in the equine industry.
• Desire to pursue a career in recreation and/or the horse/equine industry.

Skills

• Communication and Comprehension:
  • Effectively communicate verbally and in writing to convey clear, well-articulated information.
  • Understand, speak, and write English to convey messages and correspond professionally.
  • Punctual and reliable with strong organizational skills.
  • Excellent computer skills.
• Problem Solving:
  • Analyze information and events, and inform supervisor as necessary.
  • Recognize and prevent potential hazards.
  • Observe early signs of illness in horses and administer basic first-aid.
• Physical and Sensory Abilities:
  • Frequently stand for extended periods.
  • Work in all-weather, outdoor conditions, including inclement weather.
  • Regularly hear and speak to communicate orally.
  • Stand, walk, and move around the Equestrian Center.
  • Handle horses, equipment, and materials; reach overhead, kneel, or stoop.
  • Lift a minimum of 50 lbs.

Working Conditions

• Outdoor setting in all-weather conditions, with variable temperatures and possible exposure to sun and dust.
• Moderate noise levels, occasionally higher from equipment.

Driving Requirements

• Use of a personal vehicle or University vehicles required for travel.
• Valid Virginia driver’s license, acceptable DMV record, and liability insurance required.
• Ability to drive a truck and trailer preferred.

Pay

$12.77 - $15.00 per hour, based on qualifications, experience, education, skills, certifications, University needs, and external market conditions. Eligible for comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, and tuition assistance.