Recreation Assistant (Riding Instructor)

Full Job Description

About the position: This position is Non-appropriated Fund (NAF) and will be assigned to the Equestrian Center, Air Force Academy, Colorado. This position does not include benefits.

Subject to the elements of weather such as exposure to sun, wind, dust, soils, rain and snow, and hazards of equipment, contagious diseases, and horse related injuries such as exposure to bites, scratches, kicks and animal waste.

Occasional climbing, lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling up to 75 pounds. Who May Apply: Open to everyone.

Applicants will be categorized by preference(s) and/or priority consideration eligibilities.

An applicant's eligibility will be determined based on eligibility claimed in the questionnaire and proof of eligibility MUST be provided with application by the closing date, 03/03/2026 Business Based Action, Military Spouse Preference, Outside Applicant Veteran, Spouse/Widow/Parent of Veteran, and Transition Hiring Preference In order to qualify, you must meet the experience requirements described below.

Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social).

You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience.

Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if the position allows for qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application.

Qualifying Experience: Applicant must have experience providing horseback riding instruction and horse care. Ability to communicate orally and in writing is required.

Must have good organizational and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to follow written or oral instructions with limited supervision.

Applicant must be physically capable of lifting supplies and materials up to 75 pounds and have physical strength and dexterity of both arms to handle horses and the ability to help patrons.

Subject to hazards of equipment, contagious diseases, and exposure to bites, scratches, and animal waste.

Must have the ability to operate a motor vehicle in a safe manner and have a valid driver's license.

Experience in tractor operation and associated equipment preferred Equine related certifications and/or documented education preferred. This is a drug testing designated position.

The incumbent is subject to random testing for drug use. Satisfactory completion of pre-employment physical and a Tier 1 investigation are required.

You will be evaluated on the basis of your level of competency in the following areas: Major Duties:

Provides horseback riding lessons and instruction to groups of adults and/or children, or to individual adults or children.

Instructs summer camps, including developing camp programs, activities and scheduling. Works independently contacting clients, scheduling riding lessons, and teaching lessons.

Works as a team with fellow staff and management regarding horse schedules and arena usage for activities and events.

Uses a computer-based program to schedule and ring up sales, following proper cash handling procedures.

Utilizes computer and written logbooks for scheduling horses and lessons, as well as maintaining riding lesson package logs.

Assists with working with potential and current USAFA horses, both on the ground and under saddle. Reports routine horse work status to management, including completing horse evaluation forms.

Notifies management in a timely manner of any observed physical or behavioral changes in USAFA EQC horses, and assists as needed with medical treatment of horses.

Assists with horse tack/equipment maintenance and care, including tack recommendations and proper fitting to horses. May accompany or guide various recreation horse riding trips and events.

Assists with working special events and programs on and off base. Provides input to management for horsemanship program growth and development.

Assists with ideas and scheduling educational clinics for volunteers, staff, and patrons.

Provides input and assistance in developing and maintaining equine safety standards for the EQC horse program, including providing guidance on safe riding and horse handling to patrons, volunteers, and staff.

Drives vehicles and trailers as assigned. May assist other staff members in caring for horses to include feeding, watering, and cleaning. Performs other related duties as assigned.

If interested in applying for this position you may preview the online application: https://apply.usastaffing.gov/ViewQuestionnaire/12886026