Barn Program Instructor

JOB TITLE: Barn Program Instructor
DEPARTMENT: Recreation Therapy
REPORTS TO: Barn Director, Logistics Coordinators

Description of Position

Organize, lead, and supervise a program of instructional and recreational horse-barn activities designed to meet each participants needs. During the day horse barn program staff will assist the certified instructor(s) with riding and grooming lessons and when children are not riding they will provide a barn program that fully engages the children at their social, emotional, and physical ability levels. This position will also need to assist in the “after hours” care of the horses and other barn animals as designated by the Barn Director. The Barn Program Instructor will also assist in the execution of evening programs as assigned by the Logistics Coordinator and Evening Program Instructor, assist with running a station during Challenge Day, and teach Outdoor Living Skills during campouts. This position lives in the cabins for the duration of the summer and assists campers with whatever level of personal care deemed necessary. When not working with the horses or running, setting up, or planning an activity, the Barn Program Instructor will be working with the campers from his/her cabin.

All staff must be 18 years of age by the first day of camp.

Essential Functions

  • Ability and desire to work with individuals with disabilities in an outdoor setting where "campers come first".
  • Ability and desire to work with persons of all ages, ability levels, and backgrounds in a dynamic outdoor environment which values growth and change of self and others.
  • Ability and desire to work with horses and other barn animals.
  • Ability to assess and adapt activities for campers at all ability levels.
  • Ability and desire to perform, and teach, all aspects of personal care. This includes, but is not limited to, transferring, showering, dressing, feeding, and other activities of daily living.
  • Previous experience, knowledge, and/or interest in leading programs for a variety of populations.
  • Ability and desire to assume leadership and provide direct guidance and supervision to seasonal employees.
  • Willingness to learn, understand, and model the mission, vision, and values of Bradford Woods.
  • Ability to interact with and work as a team player with other staff, participants, volunteers, and participant’s families/care-givers.
  • Ability to serve as a positive role model to program participants and cabin counselor/side walkers.
  • Ability to work in a fast paced environment, which can be both physically and emotionally demanding.
  • Ability to learn and grow in the position by receiving and accepting constructive feedback from supervisors and parents.
  • Ability to complete accurate documentation forms on participants as required on a regular basis.
  • Ability to assume responsibility for the order, cleanliness, and safety of cabins, program areas, and Bradford Woods grounds.
  • Ability to perform additional duties as assigned.

Knowledge and Skills Required

  • College experience in Therapeutic Riding, or related field strongly preferred.
  • Must have experience in leading therapeutic riding activities and lessons.
  • Excellent communication, time management, and organizational skills.
  • CPR and First Aid.
  • Willingness to learn.
  • Flexibility.
  • Patience.

Cognitive Requirements

  • Ability to assess needs of participants and staff.
  • Ability to solve problems in a fast paced, dynamic setting.
  • Ability to make judgment decisions in a setting where variables can change quickly, and often without notice (such as weather conditions).
  • Ability to easily, effectively, and proficiently communicate needs, feedback, and questions.
  • Ability to understand and remember considerable amounts of information relative to teaching and facilitating in the fields of environmental and challenge education.
  • Ability to fill out detailed camper documentation.
  • Ability to demonstrate responsibility, maturity, and self accountability (i.e. professionalism).
  • Ability to follow directions.

Physical Requirements

  • This is a physically active position requiring mobility.
  • Lifting and pushing as needed (i.e. transfers, equipment).
  • Stamina to endure long hours in a position that is both physically and emotionally demanding. Again, nights will be part of the duties and responsibilities due to our residential capacity.
  • Ability to make judgment decisions in a setting where variables can change quickly, and often without notice (such as weather conditions).
  • Ability to easily, effectively, and proficiently communicate needs, feedback, and questions throughout the program.
  • Because all positions involve assisting with personal care, fluency and proficiency of the English language is essential – both written as well as oral.
  • Ability to provide a safe, fun environment for all.

Training

  • Attend mandatory CHIPS and All Staff training sessions prior to, and/or during camp.
  • Acquire CPR and First Aid certification before camp.

Indiana University is an equal employment and affirmative action employer and a provider of ADA services. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ethnicity, color, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, national origin, disability status or protected veteran status. Indiana University does not discriminate on the basis of sex in its educational programs and activities, including employment and admission, as required by Title IX. Questions or complaints regarding Title IX may be referred to the U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights or the university Title IX Coordinator. See Indiana University’s Notice of Non-Discrimination Policy, which includes contact information.