Backcountry Wilderness Area Horse Camp Counselor

JOB TITLE:  Backcountry Wilderness Area Horse Camp Counselor                       FLSA Status:  Non-Exempt

(Seasonal: May to August)

General Statement of Duties:   Responsible for leading and coordinating daily horse camp activities and equine lessons for Camp Backcountry, fostering a safe, engaging, and educational environment for children.

Supervision Received: Reports to the Equine Program Manager, Equine Program Coordinator, and other Backcountry Wilderness Area staff.

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.

• Care for HRCA-owned and leased horses and barnyard animals, including feeding, watering, and mucking.
• Supervise up to 14 children daily, ensuring their safety, engagement, and enjoyment.
• Teach age-appropriate lessons incorporating weekly themes such as trail riding, obstacle courses, and horse health.
• Facilitate educational and recreational outdoor activities and games tailored to the interests and abilities of campers.
• Actively interact with and engage campers during all Camp Backcountry programs.
• Supervise and participate in programs led by outside contractors, ensuring quality and camper safety.
• Maintain high standards of health and safety by adhering to all camp policies and procedures.
• Follow established procedures during camper check-in and check-out.
• Prepare the camp environment daily, including set-up and clean-up.
• Collaborate with fellow camp counselors and Backcountry Wilderness Area staff to achieve program goals.
• Maintain a positive and professional attitude in all weather conditions and situations.
• Attend all required staff meetings and training sessions.
• Respond effectively to emergency situations.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Physical and Environmental Standards:  

• Work is performed outdoors in all weather conditions, including wind, rain, snow, heat, humidity, sun, and cold.
• Requires physical ability to traverse uneven terrain and perform tasks such as standing, walking, crouching, bending, kneeling, lifting, pushing, pulling, and carrying up to 60 pounds unassisted.
• Vision requirements include near and far acuity.
• Manual dexterity is necessary for writing, typing, and operating tools or phones.
• Effective verbal communication and listening skills are essential for interacting with campers, parents, and staff.

QUALIFICATIONS

Required Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:  

• Minimum age of 16.

• Interest in, respect for, and ability to work with children.
• Basic knowledge of horse care, including feeding, watering, and injury care.
• Familiarity with horse breeds, anatomy, health, and care of domestic animals (or willingness to learn).
• Strong preference for experience in Western and English riding disciplines.
• Ability to adapt lesson plans to suit various learning styles and abilities.
• Strong work ethic and motivation to contribute positively to the camp environment.
• Excellent communication skills to engage effectively with campers, staff, and parents from diverse backgrounds.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with frequent distractions.
• Previous childcare experience is preferred, with verification of up to 1,040 hours of work with school-aged children for candidates with prior experience.
• Current CPR/First Aid certification (or ability to obtain prior to employment).
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record. Candidates 21 and older may be required to drive 15-passenger camp vans. Commitment to working a minimum of 7 weeks during the 11-week camp season (May 27 - August 8, 2025).

• Availability for mandatory staff training from May 19 - May 23, 2025.

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:   High School Diploma preferred.

Experience: Minimum of 2 years of equine experience, previous experience working with children highly desirable.

Application Submittal Deadline: 01-31-2024

$15-$18/hour – Entry level, minimum previous childcare or environmental education experience

$18-$22/hour – Considered a lead under licensing requirements (over 460 hrs childcare experience. See Colorado State Licensing Rules and Regulations)

$22-$25/hour – All of the above qualifications plus college degree and/or 3+ years professional experience

$25-28/hour – All of the above qualifications plus college degree and or 5+ years professional experience

EOE