An Animal Trainer trains animals to become familiar with human voices and contact, and to respond to commands. Trains dogs to assist people with disabilities. May train animals for a health, competition, or show. May train other animals such as horses, dolphins, and apes.
Part-Time Horse Trainer Spectrum Support Services LLC is hiring a Part-Time Horse Trainer to join Spectrum Ranches , our therapeutic equine program serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). We are looking for an experienced and patient horse trainer who is knowledgeable in equine behavior, groundwork, desensitization, conditioning, and the preparation of horses for therapeutic riding activities . The ideal candidate will have experience working with reactive or sensitive horses and understand the importance of creating calm, safe, and reliable horses for a therapeutic setting.
Position Details Position:
Part-Time Horse Trainer Schedule:
Approximately 4 hours per day
Hours:
Flexible based on availability and weather
Potential Schedule:
7:00 AM-11:00 AM or 8:00 AM-12:00
PM Employment Type:
Part-Time Responsibilities The Horse Trainer will work closely with our horses to support their physical conditioning, behavior, and readiness for therapeutic riding activities.
Responsibilities include:
Work directly with two specific horses , focusing on behavior, desensitization, groundwork, and preparation for therapeutic riding. Help develop and maintain calm, safe, and responsive behaviors in horses participating in the program. Provide routine exercise, conditioning, and maintenance for the remaining horses. Evaluate and respond appropriately to individual horse behaviors and sensitivities. Use positive, consistent, and appropriate training techniques. Perform groundwork and desensitization exercises to help horses become comfortable with different environments, movements, sounds, and stimuli. Help prepare horses for the unique needs and environment of a therapeutic riding program. Communicate observations regarding horse behavior, progress, and any concerns to the appropriate program staff. Follow all safety protocols and contribute to a safe environment for horses, staff, volunteers, and program participants. Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment. Qualifications Previous experience training and handling horses. Strong understanding of equine behavior and body language . Experience working with reactive, sensitive, or challenging horses . Knowledge of groundwork, desensitization, conditioning, and behavior modification. Ability to work independently and confidently while maintaining a calm and patient approach. Strong commitment to horse welfare and humane training practices. Reliable transportation and ability to work flexible morning hours. Preferred Qualifications Experience with therapeutic riding or adaptive riding programs . Experience working with horses used in therapeutic settings. Experience with a PATH Intl. -affiliated or similar therapeutic riding center. Experience preparing horses for riders with disabilities. What We Are Looking For For this position, experience with equine behavior, desensitization, and preparing horses for therapeutic work is more important than competitive or show experience . The ideal candidate understands that horses in a therapeutic setting require patience, consistency, reliability, and a calm temperament. This is an opportunity to play an important role in preparing and maintaining horses that help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities participate in meaningful therapeutic and recreational activities. About Spectrum Support Services LLC Spectrum Support Services LLC partners with families, organizations, and communities to provide support and services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through Spectrum Ranches , we are creating a therapeutic equine program where individuals can benefit from meaningful interactions and activities involving horses. If you are an experienced horse trainer who is passionate about equine behavior and interested in making a difference through therapeutic riding, we would love to hear from you.
Pay:
$28.00 - $32.00 per hour Expected hours: 20.0 per week