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Equine Program Manager Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

VCA Seaside Animal Hospital

Medical Director

Alameda, CA · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

At NVA, we're seeking Medical Directors or Managing Veterinarians in the Bay Area area. NVA, a ... Employee Assistance Program- free access to short term counseling * So much more! At NVA, we don't ...

NVA

Medical Director

Alameda, CA · On-site

At NVA, we're seeking Medical Directors or Managing Veterinarians in the Bay Area area. NVA, a ... Employee Assistance Program- free access to short term counseling * So much more! At NVA, we don't ...

Psynergy Programs, Inc.

Be Seen First

Therapist - Licensed (LCSW, LMFT, LPCC) {5K Bonus}

Sacramento, CA · On-site

$95K - $120K/yr

Why Psynergy Programs? At Psynergy, we know that together, we achieve more! Psynergy Programs ... equine, case management, crisis intervention, and linkage) to individuals with severe and ...

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All JobsEquine Program JobsEquine Program Manager JobsEquine Program Manager Jobs in California

Equine Program Manager information

What is an equine program manager?

Equine Program Managers are professionals responsible for overseeing and coordinating programs that involve horses, such as therapeutic riding, equestrian education, or recreational equine activities. They manage staff, horses, facilities, and schedules to ensure the safe and effective operation of the program. Their duties often include budgeting, program development, staff training, and maintaining compliance with relevant safety and animal welfare standards. Equine Program Managers play a key role in ensuring participants have a positive and safe experience with horses.

What are some common challenges faced by equine program managers, and how can they be effectively managed?

Equine Program Managers often face challenges such as balancing administrative duties with hands-on horse care, ensuring the safety and well-being of both participants and horses, and coordinating with diverse stakeholders like trainers, veterinarians, and volunteers. Effective time management, strong organizational skills, and clear communication are essential to address these challenges. Building a reliable support team and establishing standard operating procedures can also help streamline operations and ensure program success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an equine program manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Equine Program Manager, you need expertise in equine care, program development, and staff supervision, often supported by a background in equine science, animal management, or a related field. Familiarity with equine management software, safety protocols, and relevant certifications such as CHA or PATH Intl. credentials is typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills help manage teams, coordinate activities, and ensure a positive environment for both horses and participants. These skills ensure the effective, safe, and smooth operation of equine programs while promoting participant satisfaction and animal welfare.

What is the difference between Equine Program Manager vs Equine Trainer?

AspectEquine Program ManagerEquine Trainer
CredentialsRelevant certifications, management experienceHorse handling, training certifications
Work EnvironmentOrganizations, farms, clinics overseeing programsIndividual or group training sessions
Employer & Industry UsageEquine facilities, nonprofits, educational programsRiding schools, stables, private owners
Search & Comparison IntentManaging equine programs, overseeing staffTraining horses, improving riding skills

The main difference is that an Equine Program Manager oversees entire programs and staff, focusing on management and organization, while an Equine Trainer concentrates on training horses and riders. Both roles require equine knowledge, but the Program Manager has broader responsibilities related to program development and administration.

Infographic showing various Equine Program Manager job openings in California as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 34% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution.

Senior Wrangler / Lead Wrangler (Level 3)

Sanger, CA • On-site

Western Camps, Inc.
See more jobs at Western Camps, Inc.external

Full-time

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

About Western Camps, Inc.
Western Camps, Inc. is a mission-driven organization dedicated to providing meaningful outdoor, educational, and recreational experiences for individuals, families, and groups. Operating under the names Wonder Valley Ranch Resort, Wonder Valley Outdoor Education Center, and River Way Ranch Camp, we offer a range of programs and services that emphasize personal growth, environmental stewardship, and community connection.
Located in the foothills near Sanger, California, our facilities are situated within close proximity to Sequoia National Park, offering a unique setting that combines natural beauty with accessibility. With a long-standing commitment to safety, integrity, and excellence, Western Camps, Inc. strives to create environments where guests, students, and staff feel welcomed, supported, and inspired.
We value collaboration, professionalism, and a strong work ethic, and we are proud of the positive impact our programs have on the people and communities we serve. Join our team and enjoy meaningful work, great benefits, and perks that make every shift rewarding!
6450 Elwood Rd. Sanger, CA 93657
Senior Wrangler / Lead Wrangler - Level 3
Stables Department | Wonder Valley Ranch Resort
About the role
The Level 3 Wrangler is the senior-level wrangler within our Stables Department and serves as a trusted leader and resource for fellow wranglers. While this is not a management position, the Level 3 Wrangler leads by example and helps ensure our horses, guests, students, and staff are safe, supported, and having an exceptional experience.
This role is ideal for an experienced horseperson, trail guide, riding instructor, equine instructor, senior wrangler, or outdoor education professional who combines advanced horsemanship with strong leadership, teaching, and guest-service skills.
Our Stables Department is much more than trail rides and riding lessons. Throughout the year, we provide Outdoor Education programs, school field trips, horse experiences, guest activities, and summer horse camps. We are looking for someone who understands that creating meaningful experiences for people is just as important as providing excellent care for our horses.
Lead & Mentor:
  • Serve as the lead wrangler and primary point of contact when the Stables Manager is unavailable.
  • Lead by example through professionalism, accountability, and a positive attitude.
  • Support and mentor Level 1 and Level 2 Wranglers.
  • Help train new employees and reinforce department expectations.
  • Promote teamwork while fostering a positive and respectful work environment.
  • Take initiative and confidently make day-to-day operational decisions within department guidelines.
  • Identify opportunities for improvement and communicate them effectively to the Stables Manager.

Outdoor Education & Instruction
  • Independently teach Outdoor Education horse classes.
  • Lead engaging educational experiences for school groups, campers, and guests of different ages.
  • Adapt instruction to different learning styles and age groups.
  • Assist with developing and improving Outdoor Education curriculum.
  • Maintain class materials and communicate supply needs.
  • Communicate student, teacher, and guest concerns appropriately.

Guest Experience
The Level 3 Wrangler is expected to create exceptional guest experiences by:
  • Provide friendly, professional, and personalized customer service.
  • Lead engaging and memorable horse experiences and trail rides.
  • Build genuine connections with guests and anticipate their needs.
  • Handle guest concerns with professionalism, empathy, and confidence.
  • Create experiences that encourage guests to return.

Horsemanship
  • Demonstrate advanced horsemanship, horse handling, and equine safety skills.
  • Safely lead trail rides and guest riding experiences.
  • Recognize changes in horse behavior, soundness, health, or temperament.
  • Assist with evaluating horses for lessons, trail rides, camps, and Outdoor Education programs.
  • Administer medications as directed.
  • Safely harness, hitch, and operate driving horses when assigned.
  • Maintain high standards of horse welfare and daily care.

Qualifications
  • Advanced knowledge of horse behavior, handling, horsemanship, safety, and welfare
  • Experience safely handling a variety of horses with minimal supervision
  • Experience leading trail rides, riding programs, or horse experiences
  • Experience teaching, instructing, mentoring, or working with children and groups
  • Strong leadership and mentoring abilities
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Exceptional customer-service skills
  • Calm, sound judgment in changing or emergency situations
  • Professionalism, reliability, initiative, and accountability
  • Ability to assess horse, rider, trail, weather, and environmental conditions and make sound safety decisions
  • Willingness to learn, accept coaching, and continue developing professionally
  • Availability for afternoons, weekends, holidays, and seasonal programs

Non-Negotiables
A successful candidate must:
  • Demonstrate advanced knowledge of horse behavior, handling, safety, welfare, and daily management.
  • Consistently prioritize the safety and well-being of horses, guests, students, and fellow staff.
  • Possess the horsemanship, judgment, and experience necessary to confidently handle a wide variety of horses and situations with minimal supervision.
  • Model professionalism, integrity, accountability, and a positive attitude in every aspect of the job.
  • Lead by example and positively influence fellow wranglers through mentorship, teamwork, and effective communication.
  • Demonstrate exceptional customer service and create safe, engaging, and memorable guest experiences.
  • Confidently teach Outdoor Education classes, horse experiences, and riding programs while adapting to the needs of different age groups and learning styles.
  • Be coachable, adaptable, and committed to continuous learning and professional development.
  • Take initiative, solve problems independently, and know when to involve the Stables Manager.
  • Independently lead trail rides and horse experiences while ensuring the safety and well-being of horses, riders, guests, and staff.
  • Assess trail, weather, horse, rider, and environmental conditions and exercise sound judgment when making decisions that impact safety and the guest experience.
  • Respond appropriately to emergencies involving horses, riders, guests, or staff by following department emergency procedures, remaining calm under pressure, and exercising sound judgment.
  • Support department policies, safety standards, and the mission of the Stables Department.
  • Be available to work afternoons, weekends, holidays, and seasonal programs as needed.
  • Understand that this role extends beyond riding and includes leadership by example, Outdoor Education, guest engagement, mentorship, and supporting the success of the entire department.

Applicants must be able to demonstrate and verify the knowledge, skills, and experience expected of a Level 3 Wrangler through the interview process, practical horsemanship evaluations, and professional references.
Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their experience with horse handling, safety, trail riding, instruction, horse welfare, leadership, and guest service.
The pay range for this role is:
18.50 - 19.50 USD per hour (Western Camps, Inc.)

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