Cougar Mountain Stables
Cougar Mountain Stables is deeply committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace where all employees are valued, respected, and supported. We actively promote a culture of teamwork, integrity, and excellence, striving to create an environment where everyone can thrive and grow.
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Our stable of 45 horses and ponies can safely teach beginners and challenge advanced riders . Our facilities include 1 indoor arena & 1 outdoor riding arenas. Our riding staff assist in stable management , teach riding lessons and train some of our green horses. They are responsible for supervising campers that are scheduled for their lessons. You are expected to be a well mannered role model at all times for aspiring equestrians in your care.
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We provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified individuals, without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. Our dedication to diversity and inclusion extends to all aspects of employment, including recruitment, hiring, training, promotion, compensation, and beyond. We believe that by embracing and celebrating our differences, we can achieve greater success together as a team.
Job Title: Lead Riding Instructor
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Location: Cougar Mountain Stables
Hours: Part-time, Flexible Schedule
Pay: $20 - $35/hr (Lead Riding Instructor)
$10 - $15/hr (Assistant Instructor)
*additional $5 per child after the first*
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Position Summary: Cougar Mountain Stables is seeking a passionate and experienced Lead Riding Instructor to join our team. The ideal candidate will be dedicated to providing high-quality riding instruction while fostering a positive and supportive learning environment for our students. In addition to leading riding lessons, the Lead Riding Instructor will help develop fun games, communicate with other instructors, assist in curriculum development, and provide support to other instructors as needed. This position offers the opportunity to work collaboratively with a team of dedicated professionals in a dynamic and rewarding environment.
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Responsibilities:
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Lead riding lessons following the program designed by Cougar Mountain Stables.
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Provide engaging and supportive instruction to students of varying skill levels and ages.
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Supervise and guide volunteers or assistants during lessons.
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Care for horses before and after lessons, including grooming, stretching and tacking up.
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Log hours worked and track student progress on skill sets.
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Ensure the safety and well-being of students and horses at all times.
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Instruct a class of 4 students with a volunteer.
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Requirements:
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Minimum 3 years of experience in riding instruction.
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CHA Certified or work directly under Head Instructor
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Strong knowledge of horse care and handling.
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Positive attitude and excellent communication skills.
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Ability to work well with volunteers and assistants.
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Must be reliable and punctual.
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Certification from a recognized riding instructor program is preferred.
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Able to arrive early to catch horses, prepare them prior to lessons.
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Maintain arena cleanliness, including cleaning if necessary, removing manure, addressing any obstacles, and putting away equipment after use.
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Assess the soundness of horses and promptly contact management to keep everyone informed about any issues or concerns.
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Ability to communicate with parents about their child's progress in a positive, friendly manner, representing Cougar Mountain Stables professionally.
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Additional Information:
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Volunteers will be assigned to assist with classes whenever possible. If a volunteer is unavailable, an assistant can be assigned.
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Assistant instructors will be compensated based on qualifications and experience, with an additional fee for each child after the first.
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Volunteers will be coached and guided on where they can assist and will be treated with respect as they learn the skills necessary to become instructors themselves.
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If you are passionate about riding instruction and committed to providing a positive learning experience for students, we encourage you to apply for this rewarding position at Cougar Mountain Stables!
To Apply:
Please send your current CV, two letters of reference, and details of your horse experience (must include videos and/or photos) to cougarmountainstables@gmail.com
Job Title: Lead Summer Camp Counselor
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Location: Cougar Mountain Stables
Hours: June-August, Mon-Thr, 9am-3pm, Flexible Schedule
Pay: See below
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Job Summary: This position plans, directs, and leads the weekly Horse and Riding Horsemanship summer camp programs while providing a positive, upbeat, and safe environment for camp participants, animals, and the public.
Requirements:
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Must be 18 years of age or older at the time of hire.
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Possession of a valid Driver's License in good standing.
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CPR and First Aid Certification required or must be obtained upon hire
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Prior experience as a camp counselor, preferably with a focus on the 6-12 age range.
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Proficiency in teaching balanced horsemanship, with a passion for sharing equestrian skills with campers.
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Familiarity with the use of basic farm equipment, including safety protocols and maintenance practices.
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Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect with campers, staff, and families.
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Strong organizational abilities, with a keen attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
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Able to make learning fun and interactive
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Able to lead and direct youth
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Strong communication and interpersonal skills
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Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
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Plan and facilitate games, arts and crafts, riding lessons, and other camp activities.
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Follow routines, schedules, procedures, and goals for the equestrian camp program.
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Maintain a structured and organized camp schedule, balancing both structured activities and free time for campers.
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Conduct thorough and engaging staff and volunteer training sessions, emphasizing safety protocols, activity planning, and positive interaction with campers.
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Manage inventory and procurement of supplies, ensuring all necessary materials are available for camp activities.
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Serve as a knowledgeable resource for camp participants and the public, providing information on camp offerings, safety guidelines, and animal care practices.
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Act swiftly and effectively in response to emergencies, administering first aid and coordinating with appropriate personnel as needed.
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Keep detailed and accurate records, including incident and injury reports, attendance records, and equipment maintenance logs.
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Collaborate with supervisors to hire, schedule, and mentor camp staff, fostering a cohesive and supportive team environment.
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Provide constructive feedback and guidance to staff, encouraging professional growth and development.
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Promote a culture of safety, consistently adhering to and enforcing safety rules and procedures.
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Demonstrate a commitment to exceptional customer service, ensuring the needs and expectations of campers and their families are consistently exceeded.
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Flexibly adapt to evolving circumstances and challenges, demonstrating resilience and problem-solving skills.
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Pay:
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Rate per week will depend on experience, qualifications, and certifications.
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Starting pay is $200 for those just starting and learning the ropes [on-the-job guidance provided].
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Average pay is *$300 -$400 weekly depending on prior years, certifications, leadership skills, program development and confidence in your role.
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* Opportunities to make more based on performance and commitment to our program.
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Additional Benefits:
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Reduced Annual Board: Enjoy a discounted rate on board for personal horses, with current area rates at $825/monthly.
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Free PEMF Sessions: Receive complimentary PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) therapy sessions for personal horses, valued at $160 per session.
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Lease Rides: If you do not own a horse, enjoy the opportunity for lease rides to continue honing your equestrian skills. ($700+ Value)
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Trail Ride Outings: Participate in organized trail ride outings, exploring the scenic beauty of the surrounding area. ($150 - $265 Value)
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Free Overnight Camp Outs: Experience the great outdoors with free overnight camp outs, complete with dinner and breakfast, fostering camaraderie among staff and creating memorable experiences. ($150 Value)
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End of Year Bonus: all staff are eligible for performance bonuses at the end of the season!
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