Seasonal Equestrian Camp Counselor

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County provides opportunities for people to connect with nature. We offer to the public 60 forest preserves, 166 miles of trails, 47 miles of rivers and streams, and 6 nature and cultural centers. We have 6 million visitors each year.

The District's mission is, "to acquire and hold lands containing forests, prairies, wetlands and associated plant communities or lands capable of being restored to such natural conditions for the purpose of protecting and preserving the flora, fauna and scenic beauty for the education, pleasure and recreation of it's citizens."

Job Summary

This position assists staff with the execution of equestrian summer camp programming and is responsible for providing a positive, healthy, and safe environment for camp participants, animals, and the public.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist with facilitating games, arts and crafts, riding lessons, and other camp activities.
• Supervise and ensure the safety of campers during all camp activities.
• Assist with facility operations including upkeep of amenities and barn equipment.
• Instruct and enforce safety procedures related to horse handling, riding, and equipment.
• Provide District information to participants and the public regarding the preserves, recreational opportunities, rules, regulations, and ordinances.
• Respond promptly to any emergency situations, providing first aid as needed.
• Keep neat and accurate records, including incident and injury reports, time sheets, and equipment damage reports.
• Foster a working environment that promotes safe work habits; Become familiar with and observe all applicable safety rules, policies, and work procedures; Follow all safety rules that pertain to the duties performed and support all aspects of the District's safety and risk management program; Keep work area clean, orderly, and free of hazards; Immediately report all unsafe conditions and incidents.
• Maintain a supportive working environment and demonstrate a desire to exceed the expectations of internal and external customers.
• Perform other duties as required.

Requirements:

• 18 years of age or older at time of hire.
• Valid Driver's License in good standing.
• Must have and maintain Illinois Mandated Reporter certification or obtain upon hire (training provided).
• Must have and maintain CPR, AED, and First Aid Certification or obtain upon hire (training provided).
• Experience in riding and handling horses is preferred.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work with youth of varying age ranges.

Schedule: 40 hours a week, Monday - Friday 8AM - 4:30PM.

Position Start Date: May 20, 2024

Camp starts: June 3, 2024

Expected End Date: August 9, 2024

Pay: $14 - $16 an hour

Location: Danada Equestrian Center

Bring your own lunch. Closed toe shoes required, recommend riding or muck boots. Jeans or riding breeches required, in good condition.

The Forest Preserve District of DuPage County is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace built on a foundation of respect, integrity, teamwork, and excellence. Our organization provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. This applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.