Adaptive Riding Instructor, Part Time (Park Commission) at COUNTY OF MERCER – TRENTON, New Jersey

ADAPTIVERIDING INSTRUCTOR

DEPARTMENT: Mercer County Equestrian Center
SALARY: $19.25 – $21.25 per hour, DOE
LOCATION: Pennington, NJ
POSITION(S) AVAILABLE: 1
SCHEDULE: 10–15 hours per week (current program schedule; may includeSundays, Mondays, and Fridays) PART TIME

POSITIONOVERVIEW

TheAdaptive Riding Instructor plays a vital role in delivering high-qualityequine-assisted programs at the Mercer County Equestrian Center (MCEC). Locatedon 243 acres in Pennington, NJ, MCEC provides English riding lessons, adaptiveriding, equine-assisted therapies, and educational programs for the publicyear-round. The Adaptive Riding Instructor oversees adaptive riding classes,supporting both public participants and Special Olympics New Jersey (SONJ)equestrian athletes.

Thisposition ensures lessons are safe, inclusive, and aligned with ProfessionalAssociation of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl.) and SpecialOlympics standards. The Instructor works collaboratively with management,staff, and volunteers to maintain a positive learning environment, supportprogram growth, and promote equine welfare.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assesspotential new clients for program suitability and establish individualizedparticipant goals.
• Design anddeliver safe, engaging, and effective adaptive riding lesson plans tailored toparticipant needs.
• Facilitateweekly private or group adaptive riding sessions, providing strength-basedcoaching and inclusive instruction.
• Maintainaccurate records of participant progress, attendance, cancellations, and intakepaperwork.
• Recruit,train, and supervise volunteers to support program delivery.
• Ensureequines are handled respectfully and that horse welfare and safety areprioritized during lessons.
• Inspect,maintain, and properly store tack, equipment, and supplies; report issues andrecommend replacements.
• Monitorand respond to participant or volunteer incidents, completing reports in atimely manner.
• Coordinatewith the Director/Assistant Director and instructional team to ensure programquality and communication.
• UpholdMCEC safety protocols and industry best practices.
• SupportSpecial Olympics New Jersey athletes as a registered volunteer/coach.
• Maintainprofessional certifications, continuing education, and knowledge of equine careand adaptive riding standards.

REQUIREMENTS:

EDUCATION& CERTIFICATION:

• PATHIntl. Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI) or Certified HorsemanshipAssociation (CHA) Instructor of Riders with Disabilities (IRD)certification (current) or actively pursuing certification.
• Registeredas a Special Olympics coach/volunteer (or willing to register immediately uponhire).
• FirstAid, CPR, and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) certification for child and adult.

EXPERIENCE:

• Strongbackground in riding, horsemanship, and equine care.
• Experiencewith adaptive riding, equine-assisted activities, or therapeutic instructionpreferred.
• Familiaritywith equine health, behavior, equipment, and safety practices.

KNOWLEDGE,SKILLS, ABILITIES:

• Ability tocreate individualized participant goals and adjust instruction for a range ofabilities and diagnoses.
• Stronginterpersonal, oral, and written communication skills.
• Effectivetime management, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability toremain calm, professional, and focused under pressure.
• Commitmentto MCEC's mission and dedication to participant and equine safety.
• Reliability,consistency, and a steady professional presence.

BENEFITSOF WORKING WITH MERCER COUNTY:

Mercer County is committed to supporting thewell-being and growth of all employees, including part-time staff. Whilebenefits may vary based on hours worked and union affiliation, part-timeemployees may be eligible for:

• Access to select health and wellness programs
• Participation in the Defined Contribution RetirementProgram (DCRP), where applicable
• Opportunities for training and professionaldevelopment
• Access to employee support services and participationin county-sponsored initiatives

Mercer County EEO/ Civil Service Statement & Residency Requirements:

Mercer County is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and accessible workplace. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, creed, color, national origin, nationality, ancestry, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, marital status, civil union status, domestic partnership status, familial status, religion, affectional or sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, atypical hereditary cellular or blood trait, genetic information, liability for service in the Armed Forces of the United States, disability, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law.

As a Civil Service employer under the State of New Jersey, all candidates must comply with New Jersey Civil Service Commission regulations and guidelines. Mercer County residency is required. Non-residents must establish residency within one (1) year of employment.

Mercer County is also committed to providing reasonable accommodations in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and applicable state laws, specifically in accordance with the New Jersey State Policy Prohibiting Discrimination in the Workplace.