Horse Program Assistant

Would you like to be part of an Amazing Team? Do you want to make a difference in the lives of others? Heartland Girls Ranch has an opening for a Horse Program Assistant in our Horse Program.

Summary:

The Horse Program Assistant is responsible for assisting with supervision riding times and other equine activities for residents in our program. The Horse Program Assistant works under the direction of the Equestrian Program Director to plan and assist with the operations of the equine program.

Our Motto :

"Healing Youth, Building Lives through Success" signifies our commitment to providing a safe place for girls to experience success.

Philosophy:

All staff are responsible for knowing and carrying out the philosophy and purpose of the Heartland Girls' Ranch as determined by the Board of Directors. This includes developing a functional strength-based relationship with residents and helping to foster an environment that encourages high quality experiential learning that encourages and nurtures girls, providing opportunities to gain self-esteem through experiencing success and facing consequences for their own individual choices.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities:

Responsible for supervising or assisting with barn activities including: resident riding times, horse shows, or other barn activities in a manner that is in compliance with HGR procedures and rules regarding health and safety and under the direction of the Equestrian Program Directo r . Responsible for creating lesson plans and guiding residents' horse activities to help achieve treatment plan goals. Responsible to assist residents in their efforts to reach their individual goals and program expectations and to work within a team treatment process. Responsible to supervise the residents with barn chores. Responsible to assist with the maintenance of the arena, tack area, and barn office. Responsible for following the guidelines set by HGR's horse insurance policy and procedure and following all recommendations set by the insurance company. Responsible to monitor all client activity to ensure compliance with HGR procedures and rules regarding health and safety. Including the ability to supervise and teach residents horsemanship and other areas of need, the ability to observe, manage and record resident behavior and the ability to de-escalate and control resident behavior using the least amount of force necessary. Responsible to use strength based and trauma informed techniques and recognize natural situations as they occur as an opportunity for the residents' learning and growth. Responsible to assist with the care, upkeep, nutritional and medical needs of the horses, and dispensing horse medications as labeled or directed by a veterinarian and Equestrian Program Director. Responsible to assist with all equine activities in a therapeutic manner. Responsible to be familiar with emergency procedures for fire, medical, behavioral problems, or other emergencies. Assist with the ongoing training and development of the herd through regular riding, assessment, and implementation of training plans.

Qualifications:

A High School Diploma or GED is required. Some college or pursuit of higher education preferred. At least 1 year equine experience, which could include providing riding lessons or barn management. Experience working with at-risk youth is preferred. Ability to communicate with, motivate, instruct, guide and counsel individuals who are considered at-risk and challenging. Ability to effectively communicate and engage volunteers, residents, partners, and community members and effectively promote the Heartland Girls' Ranch in a positive light to the community, agencies and the courts. Ability to communicate clearly and effectively through verbal and written methods. Ability to manage an assaultive or physically aggressive resident (with training provided) if the need arises and the ability to be certified and maintain certification in CPR and First Aid. Ability to motivate people and maintain functional positive working relationships with co-workers by using strength-based approaches and modeling appropriate problem solving skills. Ability to work outside in varying temperatures year round and to be on your feet for long periods of time. Knowledge of word processing programs and basic Microsoft Office programs. Desire and ability to set personal goals to improve on one's self, including a priority for self-care. Must be able to lift 50lbs. Must have the ability to operate necessary machinery/equipment Heartland Girls' Ranch is an EEOE.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

From $21.38 per hour

Benefits:

401(k) 401(k) matching Dental insurance Flexible spending account Health insurance Health savings account Paid time off Vision insurance

Education:

High school or equivalent (Preferred)

Experience:

Equine experience: 1 year (Preferred)

Work Location:

In person