Program Manager and Senior Therapeutic Riding Instructor

Program Manager & Senior Therapeutic Riding Instructor

Job Description

Pony Power Therapies | Fall 2026

Reports to: Program Director

Position Overview

The Program Manager & Senior Therapeutic Riding Instructor supports the Program Director in the delivery of group and individual programs, with primary focus on equine expertise, instructional quality, and lesson delivery. This role leads mounted and unmounted sessions, mentors instructional staff, contributes to curriculum development, and ensures horses and participants are well matched and well supported. The Program Director retains overall responsibility for program management, partner relationships, and operations.

Key Responsibilities

Group Programs

• Lead daily morning group programming, including mounted and unmounted equine activities.
• Support the Program Director during school site visits by providing instructional and equine perspective on program implementation.
• Partner with the Program Director on day-of-program communication with school/group program staff to ensure smooth, safe sessions.
• Develop and enhance lesson plans and riding curriculum in collaboration with the Program Director to support participant outcomes.
• Assess group readiness and adapt activities to participant needs and horse suitability.
• Assist the Program Director and Program Administrative Assistant in ensuring all necessary paperwork has been acquired for all group program participants
• Additional responsibilities as needed

Individual Programs

• Teach individual therapeutic riding and groundwork lessons.
• Supervise lessons and provide hands-on coaching and support to instructional staff.
• Recommend horse and instructor assignments to the Program Director based on participant goals and horse suitability.
• Assist in the semester registration process, including site visits and scheduling participants
• Additional responsibilities as needed

Equine Support

• Potential opportunities to school and exercise program horses to maintain soundness, responsiveness, and suitability for therapeutic work.
• Collaborate with barn staff on herd care, tack fit, and horse workload.
• Participate in the evaluation of prospective program horses.
• Act as primary liaison between Program and Equine Manager
• Additional responsibilities as needed

Physical Requirements

Ability to walk, jog, and stand for extended periods, including in arena footing and on uneven outdoor terrain.

Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds (saddles, hay, feed, and equipment).

Ability to assist participants with mounting and dismounting, and to provide side-walker or physical support as needed.

Ability to ride and school horses safely and effectively.

Ability to work outdoors in a range of weather conditions and seasons.

Ability to respond quickly and calmly in emergency situations involving participants or horses.

Core Competencies

• Advanced Horsemanship and Riding Instruction experience
• Advanced therapeutic riding instruction and lesson design-preferred but not required
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work outdoors in a range of weather conditions
• Collaborative partnership with program leadership
• Clear, warm communication with participants, families, and partners
• Willingness to learn Salesforce and recordkeeping systems
• Commitment to participant and equine safety, inclusion, and therapeutic program outcomes
• Ability to execute physical responsibilities of the role

Compensation

Pony Power Therapies offers a competitive salary, $60-$70,000 with comprehensive benefits and a set schedule. Salary is commensurate with experience and certification.

How to Apply

Please submit a resume and cover letter to [email protected]. In your cover letter, we invite you to share your therapeutic riding experience, any certifications you hold, and what draws you to Pony Power Therapies.

Pay: $60,000.00 - $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Opportunities for advancement
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Vision insurance

Experience:

• Horseback riding teaching (not only therapeutic): 5 years (Required)

Work Location: In person