Competition Trainer - Equestrian at Menlo Circus Club – Atherton, California

We are currently seeking an Assistant Trainer to join our in-house competition training program, The Circus.

The program prepares both riders and horses for horse shows. The Circus focuses exclusively on training Hunters, Jumpers, and equitation for both horse and rider. The program travels extensively on the “A” show circuit. The program is goal-oriented, but maintains a family-focused atmosphere.

The Assistant Trainer will work as both a coach and rider at home and at horse shows. This is a traveling position that includes more than 70% of the time on the road. The Assistant Trainer assists the Head Trainer with riding, showing, coaching, and barn/show management. The Assistant Trainer supervises and directs Grooms and working students. The best match for this position will be a candidate who has worked at a larger program and with A show experience through the 3’6” hunter divisions, and experience jumping a minimum of 1.20M in the show ring. The candidate must have experience teaching regular lessons and coaching at horse shows.

Must have unrestricted ability to work in the United States.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Oversees client relations and administration of the Circus program.
• Establishes training goals, manages training schedules, and monitors the progress of both horses and riders. Trains and prepares horses for competition.
• Teaches beginner through expert riding lessons, providing feedback to improve competition riding skills.
• Oversees the show schedule, manages entrees, and other related administrative tasks for the show team.
• Provides coaching to riders at horse shows, assists with warm-ups, and coordinates event schedules.
• Promotes a culture of safety, kind handling of horses, and teamwork.
• Ensures the physical environment is safe, clean, and free of hazards. Responds to horse and/or rider emergencies and reports any accidents or injuries.
• Administers medications and treatments under the direction of a veterinarian. Proficient in Equine first-aid.
• Manages the transportation of horses, tack, equipment, and supplies to horse shows
• As needed, provides back-up coverage for Club Riding Instructors.
• Adheres to and models USEF Safe Sport rules and Live Scan.

SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Excellent horsemanship with previous experience in the Hunter/Jumper discipline.
• Empathic and productive teaching style and ability to tailor teaching to each rider.
• Experience through the 3’6” and 1.20M jumpers.
• Ability to ride green and make horses appropriately.
• Ability to work in challenging, fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
• Strong organizational skills. Works in “systems,” not one-offs.
• Works respectfully with others in a collaborative environment.
• Working knowledge of the US Equestrian Association and governing sport and participation requirements.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Minimum of 5 years of training/riding horses and competing in the Hunter/Jumper discipline
• A minimum of 2 years teaching beginner through expert riders, including children.
• Riding Instructor/Coaching certification preferred.
• Computer literacy
• First-Aid certification is a plus.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to be on feet for up to 85% of shift.
• Ability to lift/carry/push/pull objects that weigh up to 50 pounds, bend, stoop, squat, kneel, twist, and turn for prolonged periods.
• The position requires working both indoors and outdoors and may involve prolonged exposure to dust, hay, mold, rain, sunlight, wind, and cold.
• This position might require an individual to work more than 8 hours in a single workday, including on weekends and holidays.

Must have unrestricted ability to work in the United States