The Barn Assistant & Riding Instructor works directly with horses and riders in a hands-on teaching role. Responsibilities may include general barn chores and maintenance, exercising and schooling horses, providing riding lessons, and supporting a safe, welcoming barn environment. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys daily horse work and rider instruction more than program oversight or management duties.
Description
Riding Instruction
- Teach private, semi-private, and group lessons for children, teens, and adults.
- Provide instruction in riding, grooming, tacking, groundwork, and barn safety.
- Adapt lessons to each rider's goals, experience level, and learning style.
- Offer clear, encouraging feedback to help riders progress.
Barn & Program Support
- Assist with daily barn chores including mucking, feeding, turn out/in, etc.
- Assist with camps, clinics, and special events.
- Assist in mounted therapy sessions when needed.
- Support a barn culture that is inclusive of individuals with physical, developmental, and mental health challenges.
- Other responsibilities as required.
Qualifications
At least 3 years of riding instruction experience is preferred not required.
Strong foundation in horsemanship.
Knowledge of horse care, equine behavior, and safety practices.
Calm, patient teaching style and strong communication skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a busy farm environment.
CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain).
CHA, PATH Intl., or similar instructor certification is ideal but not required.
Physical Requirements
Ride, lunge, and handle horses daily.
Lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
Work outdoors in varying weather conditions.
About the Company
Ridgebury Riders is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that supports mental and physical health through animal-assisted therapies. Our mission is to increase the health and well-being of people with intellectual, social, or physical challenges, and to build a supportive and optimistic environment for our riders, their families and friends, and our community. Ridgebury Riders was founded in 2021 and is headquartered at Ridgebury Farms, a 56-acre property that includes 2 riding barns, 38 horses, and several chickens, goats, and sheep.