Equine Manager
Full-Time
ManeGait is a non-profit therapeutic riding facility dedicated to helping children and adults with disabilities move beyond their boundaries through the healing power of the horse. We are looking for an experienced, hands-on Equine Manager - a dedicated horse professional committed to the well-being of our herd and the success of our riders. This role oversees the training and schooling of 30+ horses, guides herd health and nutrition, supports horse selection for a growing program, and mentors the staff and volunteers who work alongside our horses.
Key Responsibilities
Equine Training & Program Preparation
Train and school a herd of 30+ horses from all discipline backgrounds for use in therapeutic riding and equine-assisted activities
Evaluate horses for suitability, temperament, and readiness for program work
Monitor horse behavior and performance, adjusting training protocols as needed
Coordinate with Facilities Director to ensure covered arenas, barn, pastures, and equipment meet exceptional equine safety and welfare standards
Herd Health & Nutrition
Oversee the care, health monitoring, and overall management of the herd and emergency care
Maintain accurate health and care records for all horses
Coordinate with veterinarians, farriers, and other equine professionals for routine and emergency care
Develop and prescribe individualized nutrition plans in collaboration with the veterinary team and equine nutritionist for each horse based on age, workload, and health status
Monitor body condition scores and adjust feeding programs proactively
Oversee maintenance of accurate health and care records for all horses
Transport horses as needed to and from the veterinarian
Coordinate with the Barn Operations Manager to ensure that feeding, stall care, and pasture turnout provide an exceptional and safe environment for our horses
Equine Team Management
Foster a safe, supportive, and educational environment for staff and volunteers working with the horses
Instruct and train volunteers and staff in safe horse handling techniques
Develop and deliver training and ongoing education programs for the volunteers who will be working directly with the horses
Directly supervise an assistant
Qualifications
Required
Demonstrated experience as a professional horse trainer across multiple disciplines
Extensive knowledge of equine health, behavior, nutrition, and herd dynamics
Strong team orientation with the ability to collaborate effectively across staff, volunteers, and organizational leadership
Ability to perform the physical demands of the role, including training and schooling multiple horses per day, heavy lifting, and working outdoors in all weather conditions
Valid driver's license with the ability to safely haul a 4-6 horse trailer
Compensation & Benefits
This is a full-time position offering a competitive salary commensurate with experience. Benefits package includes paid time off, health, dental, and vision insurance.
How to Apply
To apply, please submit your resume, a cover letter describing your equine training experience, and three professional references to tnelson@manegait.org. We look forward to hearing from qualified candidates who share our passion for horses and our mission of healing through horsemanship.