Stable Assistant

About the role

The Stable Assistant supports the daily operations of the Mount Holyoke College Equestrian Center by providing high-quality care for horses and maintaining the cleanliness, safety, and organization of the stables. This role is essential in fostering a welcoming and professional environment for students, boarders, and visitors, while ensuring the health and well-being of the college’s equine partners.

Responsibilities

Essential Worker (all weather and holidays)

• Provide hay and fresh water to horses
• Feed horses according to individualized grain cards and administer supplements
• Track supplement inventory and notify boarders or stable manager when supplies are low
• Turn out and bring in horses on a rotational schedule
• Clean and maintain horse stalls (10–13 daily, with occasional additional needs)
• Sweep aisles, remove debris, and maintain a tidy appearance throughout the barn
• Clean and maintain wash stalls, drains, and water tubs
• Remove trash and replace bags
• Conduct regular cobwebbing and dusting
• Move and organize feed, hay, and bedding as needed
• Muck paddocks and rake hay or leaves from surrounding areas
• Operate barn equipment such as tractors and manure wagons
• Assist with regular maintenance projects and seasonal preparations
• Examples: dragging arenas, raking walkways, dusting knee-walls, and prepping for returning boarders
• Work collaboratively with other barn staff to ensure smooth daily operations
• Read the Stable log and check the Daily staff schedule before every shift
• Communicate regularly with the associate director regarding horse care and facility needs

Schedule

Wednesday: 10AM-6PM, Saturday: 10AM-6PM, Sunday: 10AM-6PM

Requirements

Previous horse handling, husbandry, and general farm experience. Must be able to work both independently as well as on a team.

Ability to operate and learn google sheets and forms.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience operating a tractor and farm equipment.
• Experience with dragging an arena and general arena maintenance.
• Equine first aid and emergency knowledge.
• Experience working at an equine boarding facility
• Experience working in a lesson barn.

Benefits

• 403(b) Retirement Plan (College contributes 9% of salary)
• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision insurance
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• Disability and Leave Benefits
• Life Insurance (College paid coverage 1x salary)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Benefits (to Mount Holyoke College or others)
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Access to Kendall Sports & Dance Complex

Pay

Hiring Range: $21.44 - $23.58