Equine NTT Instructor/Assistant Foreman

About the role

The Equine Instructor/Assistant Foreman will oversee MSU’s equine resources, facilities, and finances and will train students in Introductory and Intermediate Horsemanship (EQUH 114 Horsemanship I, EQUH 210 Horsemanship II, and EQUH 310 Horsemanship III).

The position will work closely with Equine Science faculty and livestock operations staff to maintain a safe, effective, and high-quality learning environment for students and horses.

Responsibilities

• Instruct undergraduate equitation and horsemanship courses as determined by Equine Science Faculty and the Department Chair such as Horsemanship I, Horsemanship II, Horsemanship III, Colt Starting, and Developing the Young Horse.
• Facilitate and participate in working/riding any horses that need additional riding for classes.
• Provide a safe atmosphere for instruction of students and horses.
• Work closely with Equine Science faculty and the Livestock Operations manager for replacing and retiring MSU horses.
• Assessing horses’ soundness for classes.
• Schedule arena use for classes, pavilion activities, student club and team events.
• Maintain a positive working relationship with Equine Science faculty, MSU Farrier School faculty/staff, Livestock Operations Manager, and local veterinarians.
• Foster relationships with regional ranches and equine industry partners for potential horse leases and donations to support the program.
• Develop and coach a competitive Collegiate Ranch and Stock Horse Team.
• Assist in maintaining accurate records of animal health, well-being, feeding, and general care.
• Provide initial assessment and basic care to horses that are ill or injured.
• Maintain up-to-date AACUC protocols for all hands-on classes and ensure all aspects of the equine AACUC and LOAC SOPs are followed including review and updating the AACUC and LOAC SOPs, as needed.

Requirements

• BS in Animal/Equine Sciences or closely related field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience teaching equitation courses.
• Demonstrated experience with equine handling, behavior, husbandry and modern management knowledge and skills.
• Experience supervising or mentoring employees, primarily undergraduate student employees.
• Experience operating and maintaining agricultural and equine-related equipment and machinery.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in Animal/Equine Sciences or closely related field preferred.
• Broad knowledge and experience in the equine industry preferred.
• Experience managing equine facilities preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to manage special project requirements preferred.
• Demonstrated experience coaching a competitive team or training individuals for students and horses in a teaching environment preferred.

Skills

• Strong organizational and time-management skills.
• Strong interpersonal communication skills.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, when necessary.