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Equine Program Manager Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

Program Manager and CTRI

Elbert, CO · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

We are Seeking a Program Manager and Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor StableStrides is a nonprofit equine-assisted services organization whose mission is to significantly improve lives through ...

Direct Care Provider

Peyton, CO · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Programs Director FLSA: Part-Time or Full Time, Non-Exempt Approved by: Executive Director Direct ... Participate in equine-therapy related activities: helping with horse care (as appropriate), leading ...

Direct Care Provider PRN

Peyton, CO · On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Fill short-term staffing needs, cover staff vacations, manage resident care, or replace absent ... However, due to the nature of the program, there may be occasions when requests to cover other ...

Be Seen First

... clinics, equine labs, etc.) * Be willing to substitute teach when a faculty member is absent ... checklist program (Veterinary Technology Accreditation Manager) * Participate in in-service ...

TM Receiver

Lafayette, CO · On-site

$16.75 - $21/hr

Partner with the Store Operations Manager on inventory control, compliance, receiving standards ... Retail experience and/or farming, ranching, pet/equine, or welding knowledge is strongly preferred.

TM Receiver

Lafayette, CO · On-site

$16.75 - $21/hr

Partner with the Store Operations Manager on inventory control, compliance, receiving standards ... Retail experience and/or farming, ranching, pet/equine, or welding knowledge is strongly preferred.

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.

What cities in Colorado are hiring for Equine Program Manager jobs?

Cities in Colorado with the most Equine Program Manager job openings:

Backcountry Wilderness Area Equine Program Instructor

Highlands Ranch, CO

Highlands Ranch Community Association
501 - 1,000 employees

$16 - $24/hr

Part-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 11 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Plan and instruct horseback riding lessons and equine programs for children and adults.

  • Oversee the daily well-being of horses, including feeding, watering, and basic care.

  • Maintain client records, coordinate lesson schedules, and communicate program rules to participants.


Job description

JOB TITLE: Backcountry Wilderness Area Equine Program Instructor FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
General Statement of Duties: Responsible for providing safe and engaging horseback riding lessons and equine education programs. This role includes ensuring the safety of guests, providing care for HRCA owned horses and barn yard animals, as well as communicating and scheduling riding lessons with students.
Supervision Received: Works under the supervision of the Backcountry Wilderness Area Equine Program Manager.
Supervision Exercised: None

JOB DESCRIPTION
Examples of Duties: The following examples of duties are intended to be illustrative only and are not intended to be all inclusive.
  • Plan and instruct horseback riding lessons and equine programs for children (ages 3-17) and adults.
  • Oversee the daily well-being of horses, including feeding, watering, basic care, and routine maintenance.
  • Maintain and organize tack and other equine equipment.
  • Keep staging and corral areas clean and organized.
  • Safely move horses to and from designated pastures, ensuring all fences and gates are properly secured.
  • Provide excellent customer service by educating participants about program rules and regulations.
  • Maintain client records and coordinate lesson schedules.
  • Collaborate with other instructors to ensure seamless equine programming.
  • Obtain signed liability waivers from all participants.
  • Monitor participant behavior to ensure discipline and safety.
  • Work collaboratively with Backcountry Wilderness Area staff to achieve program goals.
  • Respond effectively to emergencies and maintain a positive attitude in all situations.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned.

Physical and Environmental Standards:
  • Work is performed outdoors, often in adverse weather conditions, including heat, humidity, sun, rain, snow, wind, cold and extreme temperatures.
  • Must be able to traverse uneven terrain and stand for extended periods.
  • Ability to walk, sit, crouch, bend, kneel, stoop, reach, push, pull, and lift or carry objects up to 60 pounds unassisted.
  • Vision requirements include near and far acuity.
  • Manual dexterity is needed for typing, writing, using a calculator, and operating a phone.
  • Effective communication is essential, including the ability to talk and hear clearly via phone and face-to-face interactions.

QUALIFICATIONS
Required Knowledge, Skills amp; Abilities:
  • Minimum age of 18 years.
  • Thorough knowledge of horsemanship.
  • Preferred experience in teaching horseback riding.
  • Interest in working with children and adapting lessons for diverse learners.
  • Excellent customer service and conflict resolution skills.
  • Strong work ethic, motivation, and ability to work independently.
  • Current First Aid/CPR certification or ability to obtain certification prior to the first day of employment.

Must pass a pre-employment background check and drug screening.
Benefits: Benefits for part time employees include Paid Sick Leave, EAP (Employee Assistance Program), Tuition Reimbursement, Employee Discounts (30%) for Programs and Events, Referral Program, Recreation Center usage.
401k plus company match and Health Insurance, Telehealth and Flex Plans after one year if the minimum hours requirement is determined.
Education: Completion of High School preferred.
Experience: Minimum of 3 years of horse care and riding experience, with a preference for prior teaching experience in horseback riding.
Submittal Deadline: 9/17/2026
EOE